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.

DRI#2 – Rome Waterfront Downtown Revitalization Initiative 2026

DRI#1 – Rome Downtown Revitalization Initiative 2017

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

City of Rome Seeking Annual Christmas Tree

September 25, 2026|Comments Off on City of Rome Seeking Annual Christmas Tree

The City of Rome is searching for a special tree to serve as the City’s community Christmas tree during the upcoming holiday season. The donated tree must be suitable for use as a community [...]

Fright Night at Franklyn’s Field

September 15, 2026|Comments Off on Fright Night at Franklyn’s Field

Mark your calendars for Fright Night at Franklyn's Field, Wednesday, October 28 for a spooktacular time!

Mayor Lanigan Extends Parks Program at Franklyn’s Field

August 14, 2026|Comments Off on Mayor Lanigan Extends Parks Program at Franklyn’s Field

Mayor Jeffrey M. Lanigan is pleased to announce that the City of Rome will extend its summer Park Program at Franklyn’s Field for one additional week, giving local children and families more time [...]

$10 Million Rome Waterfront DRI Public Forums

August 7, 2026|Comments Off on $10 Million Rome Waterfront DRI Public Forums

We Want to Hear from YOU! Join us to learn about the City of Rome Waterfront DRI program, how to submit a project proposal for potential funding, and to share your ideas [...]

Scam Alert Zoning and Planning Board Applicants

July 22, 2026|Comments Off on Scam Alert Zoning and Planning Board Applicants

The City of Rome is once again alerting residents, business owners, and developers to a fraudulent email and mail scam that falsely appears to be coming from City of Rome staff.   

Mayor Lanigan Visits Animal Control

June 19, 2026|Comments Off on Mayor Lanigan Visits Animal Control

This morning, Mayor Lanigan visited the City of Rome Animal Control Facility to thank the dedicated staff whose quick actions helped bring a recent animal cruelty investigation to a swift resolution.