The New York Department of State kicks off statewide tour in Buffalo promoting two of its flagship economic development programs. Past program participants share insights and lessons learned to new communities interested in revitalizing their downtowns. 

Tuesday, April 16: Buffalo, New York

12:30 – 4:30PM Secretary Rodriguez Leads Downtown Revitalization Forum 

The forum to be held in Buffalo focuses on the past, present and future of Downtown Revitalization programs in the region. Learn from those who have gone through the program. Mayors and municipal officials from Downtown Revitalization Initiative communities, private stakeholders involved with the DRI and New York Forward and agency staff will provide advice, insights, lessons-learned and recommendations to inform future program applicants and awardees.

12:30PM – Media Availability with Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez 

1:00PM – Opening Remarks

• Interim President Dr. Bonita R. Durand
• Secretary of State, Robert Rodriguez
• Buffalo Mayor, Byron Brown
• Erie County Executive, Mark Poloncarz
• Eric Reich, Campus Labs Co-founder/Western NY REDC Co-Chair
• Steve Stoute, Canisius University President, Co-Chair REDC

WHERE: Buffalo State University/Burchfield Penney Art Center,

                1300 Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo NY

**Media Availability with Secretary Rodriguez Prior to Event Opening