About the NY Forward Process
Read below to understand more about the NY Forward process and how it will work in Stamford.
What is the NYF process?
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.
How long will this process take?
The NY Forward process began in May 2026 and will conclude in early 2027. Following submission of the SIP by the Stamford 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.
How does funding work?
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.
Who is involved?
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 Stamford 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 Stamford NY Forward area and the projects selected for funding.
Local Planning Committee Members
Robert Schneider (Co-Chair), Mayor, Village of Stamford
Peg Ellsworth (Co-Chair), Southern Tier REDC; Executive Director, Mark Project
Mary Skinner, Past President, Stamford Business Alliance/Stamford Planning Board
Patrick Barnes, Executive Director, Roxbury Arts Group
Letty Karlsen, Planner Trainee, Delaware County Department of Planning & Watershed Affairs
Hannah Bradfield, Owner, T.P.'s Café
Patricia Heath, Member, Stamford Village Improvement Association (SVIA)
Cathy McKenna, Director, Stamford Wellness Center
Linda Stratigos, Board President, Stamford Village Library Board President
Salvatore Fabbella, Owner, Catskill Outpost
Antonia Besculides, Executive Director, Western Catskills Community Revitalization Council
What is the NY Forward Area?
The map below displays the current boundary of the Stamford NY Forward project area.
To be finalized.
How will projects be selected?
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 below.
How can you participate?
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 below.