The Village of Potsdam is pleased to announce that construction will soon begin on the long-awaited Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) Streetscape and Riverwalk projects. Work will start immediately this fall on Raymond Street and the Sandstone Art Walk, with construction on Market Street and Maple Street to follow in the spring of 2026. A groundbreaking ceremony is currently in the works to formally kick off the project, while initial site work will start in the days ahead.
The project, funded by the New York State Department of State through the DRI, represents one of the most significant downtown investments in decades. Improvements will include renewed streets and sidewalks, refreshed street trees and landscaping, energy-efficient decorative streetlights, fewer overhead wires, modernized drainage systems, clearer signage, decorative features, and public art, all designed to enhance the character and accessibility of downtown Potsdam. The Riverwalk Trail will also complete a walkable circuit around all three bridges downtown, strengthening connections to parks and the Raquette River.
“We are approaching a milestone – the long-awaited start of our Downtown Streetscape and Riverwalk projects. As we prepare for initial site work, the Village is committed to keeping our downtown accessible and open for business throughout construction. Once complete, the Village of Potsdam will have a safer, more welcoming, and more vibrant downtown to benefit our community for years to come,” Mayor Alexandra Jacobs Wilke said. “We are grateful in advance for everyone’s patience with temporary changes and disruptions, as our downtown core gets its first major makeover in decades.”
The Village plans to coordinate closely with downtown businesses and residents, and will post regular updates on its website and Facebook page. A public open house will also be scheduled to share more details and answer questions before Market Street construction begins.
Local businesses will remain open during all phases of construction. The Village encourages residents and visitors to continue shopping and dining downtown, noting that continued
support for local businesses during this time will go a long way toward keeping the community thriving.
Work is expected to continue in phases through 2026, with substantial completion anticipated by next fall. For more information and updates, visit www.villageofpotsdamny.gov, or follow the Village on Facebook. Questions may also be directed to development@villageofpotsdamny.gov.
