The Hudson Square Business Improvement District has secured a substantial $4.5 million grant from Gov. Kathy Hochul. The grant, part of the Governor’s NY Forward program, marks a pivotal moment for the lower Manhattan neighborhood.

"This is money that’s coming to our community so it’s wonderful," said Hudson Square BID's President/CEO Samara Karasyk. .

With years of dedicated efforts to revitalize the community, the BID sees this funding as an opportunity to further enhance the area, with input from locals.

"We're really trying to make our streets for the people that work, live, and visit here," said Karasyk.

The neighborhood's revitalization has been a central mission of the BID since its formation about 15 years ago. Bordered by Canal Street and Clarkson at the north, the area, historically a printing district, now boasts a few residential buildings after rezoning.

In addition to rebuilding Hudson Street with wider sidewalks and protected bike lanes, the BID has introduced various enhancements, including extra-large planters, custom benches, open spaces and a bike HUB near the entrance of the Holland Tunnel. One can also come across pops of art throughout the neighborhood.

Karasyk emphasized the importance of having the state in their ongoing efforts. "Having additional government partners is wonderful," she said. "It will enable us to come up with new ideas."

While the group doesn’t know which projects it will be working on yet, it plans to build on the work it has already accomplished with the new funding.

"Hopefully, it will result in more open space, more welcoming streets and more spaces for the community to spend more time together," Karasyk added.

Once the state approves the projects, the group aims to kick off the work by this time next year.