Thriving Neighborhoods Challenge Response:  48 Entries Total $1.9M

Field of Potential Challenge Projects Narrowed to 23

The people of Schenectady have proven themselves up to the Challenge. When asked what they would do to improve their community as part of Schenectady's Thriving Neighborhoods Challenge, citizens and community groups responded by submitting 48 proposed projects that totaled more than $1.9 million in requests.

The Schenectady Foundation's initial technical review of all proposals narrowed the field to 23 that are still in contention to vie for grants. The finalists represent requests of about $1.04 million.

“The response has far exceeded our hopes,” said Robert Carreau, executive director of the Foundation. “We have a lot of work to do to reach a decision as to the projects to be selected in the first round of the Challenge. But clearly, this seems to have touched upon an approach and resource that is needed in Schenectady. It demonstrates that people really care about their neighborhoods, and want to do everything they can to bring about change. This is so encouraging!”

The Foundation is recruiting a Challenge Council that will make grant recommendations to its Board of Directors. The Council will consist of a diverse group of citizens and stakeholders with knowledge of the City and its neighborhoods. After meeting with applicants, the Council will make its recommendations based on the potential impact of the project, the level of citizen involvement, feasibility of implementation, cost and sustainability. Citizens interested in serving on the Council should contact the Foundation at 518-393-9500. The Foundation expects to announce the selected projects for the first round of the Challenge by mid-January.

“Given the response, it’s clear that we will continue the Neighborhood Challenge and announce a second round in 2019,” said Carreau.

See a list of potential projects on the Thriving Neighborhoods Challenge

See our webpage providing full details and examples of great projects here in Schenectady, and in other cities:  Neighborhood Challenge