UTICA, N.Y. — Residents and businesses can help shape the future of Utica’s Uptown District through an upcoming NY Forward planning meeting and a newly extended deadline for project proposals.
The Local Planning Committee will hold its third meeting Monday, October 26, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. in the first-floor meeting space of the Utica Children’s Museum, 106 Memorial Parkway. The meeting is open to public observers, with an opportunity for public comment at the start.
What will the planning committee discuss?
According to an October 8 release, the agenda covers public engagement, the district’s vision and goals, revitalization strategies, findings from a downtown assessment, criteria for evaluating projects, and a review of proposals. Utica Mayor Michael Galime and Greater Utica Chamber of Commerce representative Kari Puleo co-chair the committee.
When are revitalization proposals due?
The deadline has been extended from October 9 to Friday, October 16. The committee seeks potentially transformative projects that strengthen the local economy and community. Applications are available online, as fillable PDFs, or on paper through UptownUticaForward.org. Electronic and in-person submissions must arrive by October 16, and mailed applications must be postmarked by that date.
Why does the program matter?
NY Forward is a state revitalization initiative launched in 2022 for smaller downtowns and neighborhood commercial centers. The local planning process evaluates projects for potential inclusion in a Strategic Investment Plan. A proposal is not a guarantee of funding or approval.
How can the public participate?
Interested residents can attend the October 26 meeting and offer comments at the beginning. Individuals or organizations with project ideas should review official application requirements and submit proposals by October 16, rather than waiting until the meeting. For details, visit UptownUticaForward.org.
Source: Highland Planning, October 8, 2026 press release announcing the third Uptown NY Forward Local Planning Committee meeting.
