Federation Lofts/Community Arts Center (2011 LGAA)

City of Hornell (Winner)
County: Steuben County
Population: 5,000 to 10,000
Contact: Heather Kaszynski, Planner, 607-324-7421

The Federation Lofts and Arts Center is one project in two adjacent buildings that will make downtown Hornell an attractive place in which to live and enjoy arts and culture. The Federation Building is an existing four-story, concrete building of approximately 29,000 gross square feet plus basement. The building was originally owned by St. Ann's' Catholic Church, who used the facility for educational and recreational purposes. In 2007, the City of Hornell took ownership of a restaurant located next door to the Federation building.

The City, in partnership with the Krog Corporation, and a Restore NY grant, is reconstructing and renovating the Federation Building to create 12 one -to- two bedroom apartment units, and renovating the first level for mixed-use retail/business. The building's historic auditorium will be restored for use by the community arts center that will be headquartered in the former restaurant building next door.

Partially funded by a New York Main Street Grant, the City is also renovating the restaurant building to house a large teaching kitchen which will be used for cooking classes, a bakery and catering. A large multi-purpose room will also be available for larger groups, classes that need more space (such as dancing), art shows and small catered events. The remaining space will be divided up into classrooms and a pottery studio with two kilns.

This project will enhance the downtown community and business climate, resulting in an increased tax base that will improve the City's finances and resource base, and lessen its dependence on state aid. The project may also improve local housing stock by providing new, market rate apartments where there are currently none available and are often sought out by professionals associated with companies who may have employees in the area.

In addition to the significant investment and employment during the construction phase, the City expects direct and potential spin off jobs from the creation of the Hornell Arts Center. The Center and the associated job growth will help Hornell become a more self-sustaining community economically, and will diversify its employment base.