The Department of Community and Economic Development oversees long-term planning and community revitalization efforts. The department is also responsible for the administration of the annual Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding from the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The department further provides the administration of the Planning Board, and works closely with Parks and Recreation, Engineering, and Code Enforcement offices to progress community goals and the quality of life throughout the city.

Comprehensive Planning

Pursue the redevelopment of our Brownfield Opportunity Areas by creating redevelopment plans, engaging stakeholders, securing funding, and aligning site reuse with community goals

Further Downtown and Waterfront Revitalization by creating strategic, long-term visions that balance economic development, environmental protection, and public access

The department provides staff support to the Planning Board, Codes Enforcement Office, Clerks Office, Mayor and Common Council when needed on land use policies and strategies included in local and regional planning documents.

Designing integrated, accessible, and resilient networks that link people and nature

Economic Development

Assists entrepreneurs with new RISE Small Business Grant Funding.

The Commercial Façade Improvement Program offers funding for small businesses located along eligible City Main Street Corridors. Eligible applicants may request forgivable loans up to $24,999 for façade work, dependent on the project’s scope, private investment, and commercial area eligibility.

Work with our team to find the right location for your new or expanding business.

Connect prospective businesses with the appropriate resources they need to succeed.

Grant Administration

The primary objective of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program is the development of viable urban communities, by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low to moderate income.

The Department administers all state and federal grant funds.

The City is currently in the process of planning the Legacy Center – The Michael E. Jensen Recreation and Community Center.

Ready to Start or Expand Your Business?

We’re here to help! The City of Rome loves business and we’ll be there to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand, we can help. Start your journey at City Hall in the Department of Community and Economic Development and they will guide you every step of the way. Call (315) 339-7628 or email Matt Andrews. You can also submit your request online by clicking the button below.

Documents for Download:

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Check the full document repository.

To view Rome’s current projects, visit: www.romerises.com

CED Contacts

Matthew Andrews
Deputy Director
(315) 339-7628

Amanda Mills
Administration
Events and Marketing
(315) 339-7643

Caitlin Matwijec-Walda
Community Development Specialist
(315) 339-7645

Danielle Salisbury
Planner
(315) 838-1726

Diana Samuels
Planner
(315) 339-7646

Garret Wyckoff
Planner
(315) 339-7644

Water Main Break

March 26, 2026|Comments Off on Water Main Break

The City of Rome Water Department is currently responding to a water main break on NYS Rt 69 -Rome Taberg Road. The break was probably caused by the temperature differences the area has been experiencing. [...]

We’re Hiring LifeGuards – YMCA Recertification

March 25, 2026|Comments Off on We’re Hiring LifeGuards – YMCA Recertification

We are currently hiring for lifeguards for our pools this summer! The YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley is holding full and recertification courses at the Rome YMCA. For more information, please reach out to Amy Otero at (315) 336-3500.

City of Rome Fire Chief David Gratch Announces Retirement After 36 Years of Service

February 11, 2026|Comments Off on City of Rome Fire Chief David Gratch Announces Retirement After 36 Years of Service

ROME, NY – Fire Chief David Gratch has announced his retirement from the City of Rome Fire Department, effective April 3, 2026, concluding a distinguished career spanning more than three decades of dedicated service to [...]

City of Rome Opens Applications for 2026 Parks and Recreation Jobs

February 2, 2026|Comments Off on City of Rome Opens Applications for 2026 Parks and Recreation Jobs

The City of Rome Department of Parks & Recreation is now accepting applications for Summer 2026 Positions in our Parks & Pools. Positions include: Parks & Grounds: Mowing, Main Streets, Garbage Detail, Paint Crew Pool [...]

City of Rome Tree Request

September 25, 2025|Comments Off on City of Rome Tree Request

The City of Rome is actively working to expand tree plantings citywide, while placing a strong emphasis on replacing the many trees lost during the devastating July 16, 2024 tornado. That storm destroyed hundreds [...]

Mayor Lanigan Announces Early Successes of Community Court in Rome City Court

June 13, 2025|Comments Off on Mayor Lanigan Announces Early Successes of Community Court in Rome City Court

Mayor Jeffrey M. Lanigan is proud to announce that Community Court is now active in Rome City Court and is already seeing encouraging early results. The court, launched as part of a broader initiative [...]