NYS Senator John A. DeFrancisco

A Senator with Vision for the Near West Side

Hats off to Senator John DeFrancisco, who championed the drive to secure funds now underpinning the Near West Side Initiative. Through a creative loan forgiveness program, residents and businesses on the Near West Side will benefit from economic development activity designed to renovate vacant or dilapidated properties, bring artists and other professionals to the neighborhood and to become a showcase of energy and environmental technology applications.

In supporting the Near West Side Initiative, Senator DeFrancisco has demonstrated a willingness to listen to his constituents' concerns and cast vision for a better future.

"New York State's forgiveness of this loan will allow SU to participate in advancing a lively Syracuse Arts, Technology & Design Quarter and help to advance the Near Westside Initiative. This is a vital step toward revitalizing the west side's downtown corridor," said Senator DeFrancisco. "It is also an important component in growing our cultural arts community and fostering economic growth in our downtown, both of which I have advocated for since I was first elected to the Senate. This project has the potential to bring to Syracuse artists and entrepreneurs from all across the globe. "

Senator DeFrancisco is a true friend of the Near West Side Initiative with the heart and will to bring about real change in real time. Thanks, Senator!