Communities are paired with a consultant team and a project manager from the New York State Department of State (DOS) to guide a community-based planning process focused on developing a Strategic Investment Plan (SIP).

The SIP builds upon the community’s NY Forward application to identify a slate of readily implementable projects, which may include building renovations and redevelopment, new construction, improved public spaces, and other initiatives that highlight the community’s cultural and historic qualities.

The NY Forward process began in May 2026 and will conclude in early 2027. Following submission of the SIP by the Margaretville Local Planning Committee (LPC), New York State will review the recommended projects and release a final list of projects awarded NY Forward funding.

Projects selected for NY Forward funding will be assigned to the appropriate state agency or authority for contract management and implementation.

Each project included in the SIP will have a designated NY Forward funding request. In general, awarded project funding will be provided on a reimbursement basis. It should be noted that NY Forward funds may be used as match for other grant funding if permitted by the granting agency or authority. The priority is to fund projects that are ready for implementation, with the expectation that all projects begin within two years from the time of the award.

The NY Forward planning process is led by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) made up of local and regional leaders, stakeholders, and community representatives reflecting a range of community interests.

A portion of the State’s funding supports the planning process, which is guided by a consultant team assisting the LPC with research and analysis, community engagement, and preparation of the SIP. The process also involves coordination with several State agencies: the Department of State (DOS), Empire State Development (ESD), the Department of Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA).

Most importantly, the broader Margaretville community plays a central role in the NY Forward process. The LPC and consultant team will work to keep the public informed and provide meaningful opportunities for input on the vision for the Margaretville NY Forward area and the projects selected for funding

The map below displays the current boundary of the Margaretville NY Forward project area.

[To be Finalized]

At the end of the planning process, the community and the LPC will select projects that are aligned with the State’s and locality’s goals for the NY Forward program. These projects are then submitted to the State for funding consideration in the SIP. The SIP is the final plan that results from the NY Forward planning process.

An Open Call for Projects is one of the methods the LPC will use to identify projects for inclusion in the final slate of projects. The purpose of the Open Call is to hear from members of the community who have potential transformative projects on privately owned sites that provide economic and community benefits. More info on the Open Call process will be posted on this website and publicized through other channels.

For a more comprehensive list of project criteria, refer to the NY Forward Guidebook, linked here.

Everyone is encouraged to participate in the public events, attend the LPC meetings and comment on projects that will be considered by the LPC. The public will help shape the SIP and contribute to project ideas. Specific dates for public workshops and other events are yet to be determined. We encourage you to subscribe to updates by filling the form linked on the ‘Contact’ page.

About the NY Forward Process