Two major Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) projects have been completed in North Tonawanda, Governor Kathy Hochul announced during the World Canals Conference. The city, known as the “Gateway to the Erie Canal,” was highlighted as a destination at this year’s event, drawing visitors from across the country and internationally. These efforts are part of ongoing work to boost economic growth, tourism, and community pride through adaptive reuse and historic preservation.
The first project involved modernizing and expanding the Riviera Theatre, a nearly century-old venue listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Renovations included more than 6,000 square feet of new space featuring ADA-compliant restrooms, an updated concession area, box office facilities, and an artist merchandise section. Funding for this project included $1.2 million from the DRI program and $500,000 allocated by the State Legislature.
The second project restored the Music Hall at the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum. This section of the museum had collapsed in 1995 but has now been rebuilt with climate-controlled exhibit space to house its band organ collection and Wurlitzer Perforation Department exhibit. The site remains unique as it is reportedly the only location globally where band organ rolls are produced using historically accurate methods and equipment. Support for this restoration included $210,000 from DRI funds alongside contributions from Empire State Development ($446,000), Dormitory Authority of New York State grants, New York State Parks funding, and support from New York Power Authority.
Governor Hochul stated: “New York’s canal system has long been a source of pride, prosperity and economic development, and today they continue to drive growth and opportunity in canal communities like North Tonawanda. With the completion of these DRI projects, we are strengthening the downtown, supporting local businesses and ensuring this community remains a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike. As the world looks to Western New York during the World Canals Conference, North Tonawanda is showing how smart investments can honor our history while building a stronger future.”
Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley commented: “The DRI is transforming communities across the state, and this announcement is another powerful example of what is possible when we invest in our downtowns. By completing these projects, North Tonawanda is not only enhancing its waterfront and historic character but also creating new opportunities for economic development, recreation and community life. Thanks to Governor Hochul for championing the future of New York’s downtowns and for the continued support of this flagship economic development program.”
Hope Knight—President, CEO & Commissioner at Empire State Development—added: “The historic Riviera Theatre has become a beacon for new businesses in North Tonawanda and a regional destination. The revitalization of this historic showplace has resulted in a resurgence of economic development activity over the past several years with many new restaurants, businesses and living space opening in and around the Webster Street Canal Corridor. It is good to see the Riviera and the restored Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum Music Hall both contributing to the resurrection of the community.”
North Tonawanda was previously named Western New York’s Round 5 winner in New York’s Downtown Revitalization Initiative program—a competitive effort that has also benefited cities such as Jamestown, Olean, Lockport and others. In addition to these two completed efforts in North Tonawanda’s downtown area,12 other local projects have received DRI funding aimed at redeveloping brownfield sites into business incubators; constructing apartments; developing mixed-use buildings; improving public river access; rehabilitating museums; upgrading streetscapes; supporting affordable housing initiatives; establishing commercial property improvement grants; converting vacant properties into active commercial spaces; restoring additional historic buildings; among other improvements.
