East Williamsburg is set to receive a major investment after being selected as the latest winner of New York State’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative, bringing $20 million in funding to the neighborhood.

The award comes through Gov. Kathy Hochul's Pro-Housing Communities Program and is aimed at supporting housing growth, strengthening local businesses and improving public spaces.

“See our commitment to hard working family and knowing your neighbors, making friends, socializing, and really doing everything we can together to lift up this great community,” Hochul said during the announcement.

The funding is expected to support a range of projects, including improvements to Cooper Park, the creation of a new outdoor plaza and the development of STEM-focused centers designed to help prepare residents for careers in the growing technology sector.

For small business owners, the investment represents an opportunity to address long-standing challenges while attracting more visitors to the neighborhood.

“Small businesses - we don't have money. We survive daily. You know, it's really tough for a local business,” said Aniello Romano.

State and local leaders say the funding will help create a stronger economic foundation for East Williamsburg by investing in infrastructure, public spaces and commercial corridors.

Antonio Reynoso joined state officials in celebrating the announcement, calling it a chance to make lasting improvements across the community.

Local entrepreneurs also hope the grant will provide resources tailored to the needs of neighborhood businesses.

“The grant will help with my infrastructure personally because I actually work with the community. Each of us, the things that we are in need of are unique, but we're all in need of something,” said Melissa Johnson.

Officials say the Downtown Revitalization Initiative is designed not only to support existing businesses but also to attract future investments, helping transform the corridor into a more vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.

“The project proposed through this initiative will strengthen commercial corridors, create and improve public spaces... And invest in institutions that anchor this community,” Reynoso said.