Project Description

The Village of Massena Local Waterfront Revitalization Plan (LWRP), or “Plan” is a critical component of the Village’s revitalization efforts as it transitions from an industrial-based economy to a diversified one built for the 21st century. With the waterfronts on the Grasse River, Raquette River, and Massena Power Canal, environmental and development concerns along these watercourses will significantly impact the Village’s future. Further, the Plan will develop waterfront recreation, flood resiliency, and ecologically beneficial project recommendations that are attuned to the needs of current and future Village residents.

The intent of this project is to provide a strategic plan for enhancements to the Village’s riverfronts for improved visual and recreational access, downtown and neighborhood revitalization, and unique and appropriate new development. The Plan will focus on four key opportunity areas including:

• Enhancing physical and visual public waterfront access opportunities
• Revitalizing commercial and mixed-use areas
• Protecting community character
• Improving the ability of the community to take advantage of scenic resource-related tourism.

The Village retained Barton & Loguidice, DPC as its planning consultant to assist and guide the planning process. B&L is currently assisting the Village by building on these themes to prioritize community development projects. The projects will establish a complete strategic plan for accessibility enhancements to the Grasse Riverfront, downtown and neighborhood revitalization, and unique and appropriate new development. At its conclusion, not only will the Village have a community vision and goals with which to draw policy change and capital budget planning from, but will also be eligible for funding from NYSDOS to implement recommended actions from the plan.