New York State Unlocks $19 Million to Transform Three Long Island Downtowns

Long Island’s towns carry stories etched in their streets and storefronts. On May 20, 2025, New York State unveiled a $19 million plan to transform three communities—Kings Park, North Bellport, and Mineola—through 23 projects under the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs. The goal is clear: create thriving, walkable downtowns that honor local heritage while meeting modern needs.

Kings Park will receive $10 million for eight projects, while North Bellport and Mineola each get $4.5 million for eight and seven projects, respectively. From safer sidewalks to new homes, these efforts aim to make daily life easier and more connected. The announcement, shared by the Office of the Governor, signals a commitment to community-driven change.

This investment arrives at a pivotal moment. Across the U.S., cities are rethinking urban spaces to balance growth with livability. Long Island’s projects offer a chance to see how state funding, local vision, and national trends can converge to reshape neighborhoods.

Kings Park envisions a downtown where people can walk, shop, and gather with ease. Its $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative includes $4.5 million to upgrade Main Street with wider sidewalks, high-visibility crosswalks, and reorganized parking to prioritize safety. A $1.4 million project will turn a municipal lot into a town green, adding a playground, gazebo, and trail links to encourage community events.

Housing and history are also priorities. A $900,000 development at 26-34 Main Street will bring 16 apartments and retail, while $850,000 will restore a historic building at 4 Main Street with updated apartments and dining spaces. Some residents, however, voice concerns about traffic and construction delays, highlighting the need for clear communication.

North Bellport’s $4.5 million NY Forward award focuses on opportunity and inclusion. A $1.3 million project will install sidewalks and lighting along Atlantic and Post Avenues, making streets safer for pedestrians. Another $1.25 million will build 32 affordable homes with accessory apartments on Ecke Avenue, addressing a critical housing need in a community that has faced systemic challenges.

Public spaces will also improve. A $345,000 upgrade to Robert Rowley Park includes new playgrounds and sports courts, while $97,000 will enhance the Boys and Girls Club’s outdoor areas. While local advocates applaud the focus on affordability, some wonder if the housing supply will keep pace with demand.

Mineola, with over 1,400 housing units added in the last decade, aims to solidify its status as a Long Island destination. Its $4.5 million NY Forward award includes $1.3 million to widen sidewalks and bury power lines at Second and Main Streets, enhancing walkability. A $1 million project at 199 Jericho Turnpike will create a mixed-use building with 30 apartments, half affordable, while preserving a historic bank façade.

Public spaces will gain vibrancy. A $505,000 mural and plaza at the Pavilion Garage will create a flexible event space. Yet, some businesses worry about disruptions from construction, underscoring the challenge of managing growth without straining local commerce.

These Long Island projects are part of a larger state effort. Since 2016, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative has invested $900 million in 91 communities, while NY Forward, started in 2022, has allocated $300 million to 60 smaller towns. Together, they’ve created over 4,500 housing units and attracted $3 in private investment for every state dollar. The state’s Pro-Housing Community certification ensures municipalities prioritize housing to access such funds.

Nationally, similar priorities emerge. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant and the Federal Transit Administration’s $68.9 million Transit-Oriented Development program promote affordable housing and pedestrian-friendly designs. Perspectives differ, though. Some advocate for market-driven, low-density growth to reduce costs, while others support state investments to ensure equitable access and sustainability.

Community input shapes these projects, balancing progress with preservation. Kings Park’s restored VFW building and Mineola’s preserved bank façade reflect a commitment to local character. Still, concerns about rising costs and gentrification persist, as new developments could price out longtime residents.

Past urban renewal efforts, like New York’s mid-20th-century highway projects, often displaced communities. Today’s approach emphasizes inclusion, with walkable designs and public engagement. Research shows walkable neighborhoods boost property values and public health, but affordability remains a hurdle as revitalization drives demand.

Kings Park, North Bellport, and Mineola stand on the cusp of transformation. The $19 million investment promises safer streets, more homes, and lively public spaces. Local leaders and residents see a chance to build downtowns that serve everyone, from young families to small business owners.

Challenges lie ahead. Coordinating construction, securing ongoing funding, and meeting community expectations will test local resolve. National debates over zoning and tax incentives could influence future steps. For now, these towns are forging a path that respects their past while embracing a more connected future.

Long Island’s downtowns are evolving. With collaboration and careful planning, these projects could inspire other communities, proving that revitalization can create places where history and opportunity coexist.