NEWS

Call for Commercial Property Improvement Grant Applications in Sharon Springs - NY Forward Small Project Fund to Revitalize Downtown and Support Small Businesses is Now Open

By Matthew Avitabile · March 21, 2025 · The Mountain Eagle

SCHOHARIE COUNTY – Sharon Springs, recognized by both the National Register of Historic Places and the New York State Register of Historic Places, in Schoharie County, was awarded $2.25 million in funding as part of the NY Forward initiative. This funding, announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, will enable the village to undertake several transformative projects, revitalizing its downtown area (from Main Street to the Adler Hotel) while preserving the rich history, mineral springs, creeks, waterfalls and art community culture that has made it a unique destination.

As part of this initiative, Sharon Springs will benefit from the Small Project Fund, with a $300,000 allocation aimed at supporting small-scale projects that enhance the Village’s Historic District. The fund will be used for historically sensitive building renovations, public art installations, upgrading housing in mixed-use commercial buildings and installing energy efficiency measures to better the operational performance and sustainability and elevate the village as a vibrant hub for both residents and visitors.

"We are pleased to receive this transformative funding through the NY Forward program,” said Denise Kelly, Mayor of Sharon Springs. “I’m particularly excited about the Small Project Fund, which offers critical support for local businesses and organizations, helping them bridge funding gaps and make meaningful improvements. These investments will have a lasting impact on Sharon Springs for years to come."

SEEC is overseeing the Small Project Fund, with applications now open until May 1st. Applicants are invited to submit their project descriptions and initial cost estimates online at seecny.org/small-project-fund. To assist applicants throughout the process, SEEC will host an orientation and Q&A session via Zoom on Wednesday, March 26th, from 7-8 PM. Interested attendees can register at seecny.org.

Applicants will also be paired with an environmental specialist to assess and address any potential hazardous building materials, as well as a designer to optimize the visual and functional impact of projects along Main Street. Submissions will be reviewed throughout May, with recommendations sent to New York State in June. Conditional award notifications are expected by July, with construction slated to begin in 2026 and project completion anticipated by the fourth quarter of 2027.

“This funding represents a pivotal moment for Sharon Springs,” said Trish Bergan, SEEC Program Administrator. “The Small Project Fund is designed to empower our local businesses, property owners, and organizations to take meaningful steps toward revitalizing this historic downtown. By supporting projects that prioritize historic preservation, energy efficiency, and Main Street vibrancy, we’re helping to create a more sustainable and welcoming village for residents and visitors alike. We’re excited to work alongside the community to bring these transformative ideas to life.”

Sharon Springs, which once flourished as a health resort destination thanks to its therapeutic mineral springs, is once again drawing visitors with its combination of historic architecture, unique shops, and arts community. The village is also known for hosting the popular Sharon Springs Harvest Festival and for being home to the Beekman Boys' successful Beekman 1802 business, which has contributed to its revitalization.

The other New York Forward funding will support a variety of exciting projects, including:

Historic Klinkhart Hall Renovation: A $541,000 investment will restore this iconic community building into a center for the arts, offering new cultural experiences for both locals and tourists.
Chalybeate Spring Park Redevelopment: With a $1 million allocation, the park will undergo enhancements, including a new pavilion, improved pathways, and the relocation of the historic spring temple to create a more welcoming public space.
Lehman Block Restoration: $240,000 will be directed toward exterior renovations of this historic building, preserving its architectural charm while supporting economic growth.
Public Wi-Fi Installation in the Spa District: A $169,000 investment will bring free public Wi-Fi to Main Street, providing residents and visitors with improved connectivity and access to digital services.

The NY Forward program supports small and rural communities across New York State by funding key infrastructure, cultural, and business improvements to help them recover and grow. Sharon Springs is among the first communities to benefit from this innovative program, which marks a significant step in the village’s revitalization. The funding will help preserve Sharon Springs’ unique history while driving future growth by enhancing downtown amenities, improving quality of life, and attracting new visitors and businesses.

For more information about the NY Forward Small Project Fund contact Trish Bergan, SEEC Program Administrator at admin@seecny.org, call 518-517-1700 or visit www.SEECNY.org.