Environment Programs

Elmira Downtown Development considers improvement of the downtown environment a key goal in accomplishing its mission. We offer many programs and projects, often relying on volunteer assistance to create success.

Grants for Downtown Businesses!
Elmira Downtown Development offers two grant programs for owners interested in improving their properties. Applications for both programs are available now- click here.

The programs offer matching grants to assist building and business owners in making permanent exterior improvements to their properties. Investments are matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis; all projects MUST meet program guidelines. For more information on EDD's grant programs, click here.
Downtown CleanUp is held annually on the Saturday prior to Mother's Day. On May 9, 2009 Elmira Downtown Development and our partner, Kiwanis will come together for a full day of street cleanup for the entire 52-block district. We expect up to 500 volunteers to take pride in cleaning up our downtown. LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE, WORK & PLAY. Groups ranging in age from kindergartners to senior citizens will work together to clean specific blocks, both on the Southside & Northside of Downtown Elmira; EDD and our sponsors will provide trash bags, rubber gloves, rakes, brooms, dustpans and other supplies. Following the massive cleanup, we will have a giant pizza party in Wisner Park. Please fill out registration form and send to Elmira Downtown Development.

Operation Green Streets is Elmira Downtown Development's partnership with the City of Elmira, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chemung County, the Star-Gazette, and private businesses. It offers community groups the chance to adopt a public flower bed - making a colorful and lasting difference in downtown.

All materials, including plants, tools and mulch, are provided. Adoptive groups commit to maintaining their own little piece of downtown for at least a year. The Operation Green Streets program grew out of creating a more pedestrian-friendly environment in downtown. Operation Green Streets is funded through a Community Development Block Grant, and city Public Works staff assist in preparing existing beds for planting and in maintenance.

2009 plantings begin May 30th. If you'd like to get involved in this program, complete the application below or contact Elmira Downtown Development at 607.734.0341


Holiday Decorations
EDD is also responsible for the downtown district's holiday decorations. We expect to continue to add to Elmira's much-admired holiday wreath program, eventually adding holiday cheer to the entire district.