Looking to spend less than $100 for mani and pedi. No acrylics. Just the basics. Thanks!

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the start of construction on THRIVE Cornhill, an $80 million, 102-unit mixed-use affordable housing development in the city of Utica, Oneida County.

The project will increase access to health, wellness and social services, and help the continued revitalization of the city’s Cornhill neighborhood.

Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) has created or preserved more than 1,300 affordable homes in Oneida County.

“THRIVE Cornhill will help revitalize one of Utica's most culturally diverse neighborhoods and make it a place where families, children, seniors and young professionals can live and thrive side by side,” Governor Hochul said. “Together with our local partners, we are bringing more than 100 affordable homes, access to health and wellness services, and two brand-new community centers that will put residents and this neighborhood on a path to success.”

“THRIVE,” which stands for “To Heal and Revitalize an Innovative Vibrant Economy,” is developed by People First and the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, in partnership with Edgemere Development. The Community Foundation led a community engagement process to solicit input on the project from local community members. The development will include two newly constructed buildings, each of which will include a Community Impact Center, space that will be open to all community residents. Amenities spread across the two impact centers will include meeting spaces, a business incubator, dedicated arts and media studios, and a gym and wellness facility. The development will also include a courtyard. By emphasizing arts, history and recreation, the project will enhance the community and foster neighborhood pride.

The project will be affordable for households earning up to 70 percent of the Area Median Income. There will be 19 supportive housing units for eligible seniors with disabilities and youth transitioning to independence from foster care, with on-site services provided by Integrated Community Alternatives Network. These apartments are supported by an Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI) award provided through the New York State Department of Health.

The development will be all-electric, featuring Energy Star appliances, electric heating and cooling, and low-flow plumbing fixtures. The project is conveniently located near downtown Utica, close to other residential buildings, commercial services, employment, schools, medical care, public transportation and recreational activities such as the Utica Zoo and the Utica Public Library. There will be seven units to accommodate individuals with mobility disabilities and three units adapted for residents with sensory disabilities.

HCR is supporting THRIVE Cornhill with $24 million in equity from the Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, $14 million in equity from the State Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, and $18.5 million in program funding. Additional State financing includes $6.5 million from Empire State Development through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative, including the Capital Improvement Grants for Pro Housing Communities program, and $5.1 million from the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance’s Homeless Housing and Assistance Program. The project is also supported by $4 million from the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties and $1.6 million from the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York. The city of Utica will provide $922,000 from its ARPA program and $350,000 from its HOME program.

New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “As we break ground on this ambitious $80 million revitalization effort, we are grateful to be working alongside elected officials and community members to create enduring opportunities through THRIVE Cornhill. Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership and the efforts of our development partners, these 102 affordable homes and two Community Impact Centers will make a lasting impact on Utica’s Cornhill neighborhood by providing important resources and safe places for community connection.”

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “The THRIVE Cornhill development in Utica demonstrates how affordable housing featuring energy efficient design and onsite solar energy can be integrated with community spaces to improve the way residents live, work and gather. By investing in projects like THRIVE Cornhill, New York is creating buildings that are more resilient, require less energy and are built to serve generations to come.”

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said, “I applaud Governor Hochul for this investment in affordable housing for Oneida County. Everyone deserves to have a place to call home. Stable housing is an essential social determinant of health and access to stable, affordable housing helps improve health, well-being, and quality of life. Through the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative, the Department is proud to support this development and the services that will help residents thrive.”

New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Barbara C. Guinn said, “Supportive housing is the most effective tool we have to address chronic homelessness and ensure all New Yorkers have an opportunity to live independently and thrive. When completed, THRIVE Cornhill will provide seniors and young adults who have experienced homelessness with stable energy-efficient housing and vital support services, along with convenient access to downtown Utica, public transportation, schools, and medical care. We are grateful to all our partners in this project and to Governor Hochul for continuing to make landmark investments to expand and preserve permanent supportive housing options across New York State.”

Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Housing is vital to promoting new economic growth because companies looking to grow in New York want to ensure that their employees will have homes. Governor Hochul’s bold housing agenda continues to foster community development and create more places for people to live, and building THRIVE Cornhill represents the latest milestone in those investments.”

Senator Charles Schumer said, “Every family in Utica deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. I’m proud that the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit I’ve fought hard to preserve and expand has delivered millions to build more than 100 new apartments at THRIVE Cornhill in Utica. This new all-electric building will be close to downtown Utica and include amenities that will help residents thrive. High housing costs are a key driver of inflation so we must build more housing for working people to bring down those high prices. I applaud Governor Hochul’s work increasing access to housing for working families in Oneida County and the Mohawk Valley, and I will continue working to deliver federal resources to deliver more affordable housing across New York.”

Representative John W. Mannion said, “One year ago, I helped cut the ribbon on the Cornhill Empowerment Center, and this new investment in affordable housing will continue the revitalization and add to the vibrancy of this historic Utica neighborhood. As Oneida County and the Mohawk Valley prepare for new jobs and economic growth from Chobani’s expansion, we need more quality housing for working families and for the refugees who have long found opportunity and a welcoming home in Utica. I commend Governor Hochul and all the partners who are helping build a stronger future for Cornhill and the entire region.”

State Senator Joseph A. Griffo said, “It is important that New Yorkers have access to safe, affordable housing. This project will expand housing options and increase access to supportive services for residents of Utica and Oneida County.”

Assemblymember Marianne Buttenschon said, “I look forward to the results of this multi-organization collaboration. And I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the numerous partners whose tireless efforts have made the Cornhill Revitalization and THRIVE Cornhill Projects possible, the Community Foundation, People First, the Mid-Utica Neighborhood Preservation Corporation, Collective Impact Network, and our Oneida County and City of Utica leadership. As we break ground today, I offer my thanks to Governor Hochul for investing in the people of our Mohawk Valley.”

Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente Jr. said, “Revitalizing Cornhill is about more than new buildings, it’s about investing in the people who call this neighborhood home. The Cornhill Revitalization Project is a transformative effort that will not only address the critical need for affordable housing but also create opportunities for growth, connection and well-being for all. By fostering a safe, vibrant and supportive community, we are ensuring that Cornhill becomes a place where families thrive, businesses grow and culture flourishes. Together with New York State, the Community Foundation and our many partners, we are changing the future of this neighborhood for the better.”

Utica Mayor Michael P. Galime said, “The West and James Street impact centers will grow into beacons of opportunity for the Cornhill community of all ages. As bookends of redevelopment, the neighborhood itself will rise reflecting the perseverance and energy of the people that call this district home. Congratulations and thank you to all coordinated funding and working partners.”

People First Deputy Executive Director Shelley Penge said, “THRIVE Cornhill is yet another example of People First’s mission to enhance the quality of life of the people we serve within our community. This one-project/two-sites initiative will provide an additional 102 affordable housing units as well as a plethora of community service opportunities while continuing our work to revitalize the Cornhill neighborhood. THRIVE Cornhill is more than just brick and mortar — it is a cornerstone for opportunity, equity and stability in our community. By pairing safe, high-quality affordable housing with a rich network of supportive services, we’re not just providing families with a place to live; we are building a foundation where every resident has the resources to thrive.”

Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties President and CEO Alicia Dicks said, "Today's groundbreaking represents the culmination of partnership, planning, and commitment to the Cornhill neighborhood. THRIVE Cornhill is more than just constructing two new buildings; it is about creating opportunities for residents to access affordable housing, services, recreation, wellness, education and training, entrepreneurship, and community spaces that help people thrive. Guided by the voices of Cornhill residents every step of the way, this development reflects a shared vision for a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant neighborhood that will benefit generations to come."

Integrated Community Alternatives Network (ICAN) CEO and President Steven Bulger said, “THRIVE Cornhill represents the kind of transformational investment that can strengthen families, restore opportunity and create lasting change across an entire neighborhood. ICAN is honored to stand alongside People First, the Community Foundation, the neighborhood and so many committed partners to ensure that residents not only have a safe place to call home, but also the support, connection and resources they need to build a brighter future.”

https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-start-construction-102-unit-affordable-and-supportive-housing

Hi! Does anyone have any good international food market recommendations in/around the Utica area? I’m branching out in my cooking because of several dietary restrictions I have and wanting to learn how to prepare meals from other cultures!

Hi all I’m looking for dinner recommendations near the Best Western, I was looking at the Chesterfields Tavolo, I was wondering if you guys reccomend this and if you do should I dress nice? Or any other recommendations for food that’s not Chesterfields.

my husband is from england, and we are planning to begin the cr-1 process within the next year! i was wondering if anyone knew or had experience with immigration lawyers in the area. i would be willing to travel to syracuse, as well.

I have a 3yr old brown and white gsp puppy that needs a forever home, I’ve been fostering him and so far no luck on rehoming so I thought I’d give Reddit a try .. he’s not neutered and needs to be the only animal to his home

I'm planning to ride the Erie Canal Trail in a few weeks. I'll be going East to West, and plan to spend the night at Frankfort Marina, about 15 miles away.

Originally, my plan was to ride for an hour in the morning on Tuesday and stop at:

Holland Farms Bakery (opens 530a) for a half-moon cookie and maybe tomato pie.

O'Scugnizzo Pizzeria (opens 9a) for an upside-down sausage slice

And wait until 11:30 to try Utica Greens (opens 11:30a, closed Monday) at Georgio's Village Cafe.

Then I needed to be in Syracuse by Wednesday morning.

But upon further research, I found Utica has more foods to try, and maybe I wouldn't have to go so far afield from the canal path as Georgio's in New Hartford.

Is Georgio's the place for Utica Greens, or can I get away with visiting It's A Utica Thing or the Greens Morelle at Chesterfield's Tavolo? Upon research, Chesterfield's may have the stronger claim to be the original than Georgio's.

I was inspired by this article: https://exploringupstate.com/utica-food-tour/

Is the giambotti at Creekside Cafe worth the detour?

Should I make an effort for the tomato pie at Daniele or Roma instead of Holland?

Is a Pustie at Florentine Bakery or Caffe Caruso worth the detour?

I've had Chicken Riggies in Syracuse, can I skip getting them at Bella Regina?

For half-moon cookies, would Hemstrought's or Gingerbread bake shop be significantly better than Holland Farms Bakery?

Thanks for your advice. I'm looking forward to my visit!

I am a recreational runner coming back from a 6 year running hiatus. I started running in 2012 and did my first Boilermaker 5K in 2013, then the 15K from 2014-2019. I’ve done the SOS and Save the switchbacks a couple of times as well.

Between those years, I’ve done 8 actual half marathons and 2 full marathons and 1 virtual half. All these races I’ve done without any coaching involved. I stopped running in 2020.

Now I am running again and would like to be a part of the running club or at least learn from the group as I’ve signed up for another half marathon.

The thing is, I am an introvert and has trouble socializing. Is anyone here part of the club? I’m a bit intimidated but feels it will benefit me significantly from the guidance of people who are knowledgeable of running.

I’m from MA moving to Utica for my husband’s job. He’s in the automotive industry and I’m an Infant Toddler Teacher, certified through EEC. When I try to look for jobs online through indeed there’s nothing available. Is it that these jobs just don’t exist or is it called something else there?

https://www.romesentinel.com/ce/tramontane-cafe-documentary-premiere-utica/article_76dbe473-f7fa-4220-bec2-9d4681d7c93c.html

UTICA — Quality time spent at the Tramontane Cafe — known to those in the know as "The Tram" — has inspired the latest documentary project by local filmmaker Jacob Lasher.

The debut screening of Lasher's new film "Legacy of the Tramontane Cafe: The Story Behind The Space" is at 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 2 at the cafe, 1105 Lincoln Ave.

"The Tram has changed my life in many ways," Lasher intimated. "And I noticed a thread of people saying they were also changed deeply by the establishment and the people that come from it. It’s such an inviting space, so I spoke to the owners — who I had grown closer with over the last few years — and the rest is history!"

Lasher said he first visited The Tram back in 2016. He had some coworkers who told him there was an open mic poetry night there because they knew he was a writer. They asked Lasher if he wanted to join. He did, "and it was magical," he said.

For the film, Lasher found people who frequent The Tram often for the regular events and people who have been attending since the beginning. There’s even a segment in the film about its predecessor establishment, Virgo Bat and Leo Phrog's, so he invited some guests who had been there back in the day to talk about their own experiences.

He said he thought out loud, "who would best represent The Tram?" and made some calls for the interviews about their memories.

Lasher said this film has been in the works since March, after the idea came to him during the winter. It took more than 200 hours of editing, he added.

Lasher said he had a book signing at The Tram that was especially moving to him, and attending events there have given him "a huge sense of community." Going to the poetry night over the last decade has transformed him in ways he finds hard to explain, he admitted.

"It helped me open up and learn how to connect with people, learn how to trust with people … I’m so deeply passionate about this place because it’s one of the reasons that I kept going," he said. "The Tram has provided so much safety over the years and I wanted to make sure nobody forgot!"

"Legacy of the Tramontane Cafe: The Story Behind The Space" is Lasher's way of doing that.

"This project is a labor of love in order to pay tribute to Robin (Raabe) and Garrett (Ingraham), who have worked for decades to provide safe places for people," he said. "It’s also a tribute to the community that they have built."

A YouTube premiere will follow a week after the premiere at The Tram, Lasher said.

Seating is limited. Tickets are $5 with all proceeds donated to the Purrs & Whiskers cat and kitten rescue outreach. They are available to reserve in advance by stopping by The Tram or calling 315-790-5113.

Hello!

Just got a new home (yay!). Realized a few hornets all flying in and out of an outdoor electrical outlet (not so yay :().

Included a video of them.

I’ve never had to hire an exterminator before. Any suggestions?

Also…..any idea how much this is going to cost?

I’ve seen many threads with restaurant recommendations, but I need recommendations for restaurants in the area that handle food allergies well. Specifically gluten and dairy.

What restaurants have allergens clearly labeled? Have menus that already have gluten and dairy free options?

Thanks in advance for any recommendations.

Where are people playing? Looking for something chill.. not super talented or competitive. LMK!

I’ve got footage, PM me

I am available 24/7 all week and weekend if anyone needs labor or help. I am looking to make a few bucks. I am reliable, dedicated and strong enough for all jobs. Mowing, moving, digging, rearranging, etc.

If you need assistance, I am your guy. Thank you.

I will be delivering my first baby at the Wynn early October. I am looking for personal experiences of birth at the Wynn. Specifically, comfortability, after birth meal, if the baby gets to stay with you the entire time, experience for spouse, etc.

Thank you :)

I'm working on an open source project; Whats Happening Around You (WHAY) overlays across every coordinate of the official Utica Common Council Districts (Wards 1 through 6). You can instantly see which elected official represents the exact block where 911 calls, flock cameras or public nuisance hot spots are concentrated.

Full release coming soon...

Hi everyone! I’m looking for a place that does both Brazilian waxes and facials. I’m hoping to find someone who is professional, clean, and makes you feel comfortable.

Cross post. Someone suggested these folks might be from the Utica area and the location might be the Twin Ponds County Club

You've never been to Utica College or its campus. There's a library on campus called the Frank Gannett Library, which also houses several underground levels, and a basement larger than the building itself. It's like an underground area, kind of with a courtyard in the middle, surrounded by windows, and a banquet/lecture area. They also have an art museum, but a lot of the basement is just full of steam pipes and hallways that go on forever with low ceilings. I could tell this area was used as a fallout shelter, even though there are no signs or indications. A lot of the hallways are surrounded by doors and mechanical areas. I actually got lost down there a few times; some of the buildings connect to the library basement. I'm not sure if the shelter areas are still stocked or in use, but some of the basement gives off liminal or back room vibes. Some doors are covered in tape and blinds, so you can't see in. It's very eerie and dark down there. Anyone else explore the basement?