New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that 116 Capital Project Grants were to be awarded through the New York State Council on the Arts. This is the first time in NYSCA history that over $100 million in grants will be disturbed.

New York has always been the state where arts and culture flourished. From television shows being filmed within the five boroughs, to Broadway giving birth to some of today’s most iconic plays, arts, fashion and culture have integrated themselves into the big apple.

Gov. Hochul released a statement congratulating the recipients of the grants, while also acknowledging the impact of some of New York’s cultural institutions.  

“From our vibrant cultural anchors, to celebrated historical sites, our arts and cultural spaces represent the ingenuity of New York and preserve our state’s rich history and character,” Hochul said in a statement.

“Congratulations to all grantees embarking on these transformative projects that will demonstrate the arts are both back and thriving.”

According to a press release from the Governor’s office, NYSCA focused on small and medium sized organizations in addition to first time applicants for the Capital Projects.

Some of the recipients of the grants are organizations based in Brooklyn, including The Bushwick Starr. The Bushwick Starr’s grant — which totals $900,000 — will be used to construct a new 5000-square-foot performance venue in Brooklyn, allowing the cultural institution to have a permanent home for its artists.

The performing arts center lost their leased space in 2020, which it has occupied since 2001. The cultural organization was one of many shut down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, heightening fear of a more permanent shutdown from the Development Director, Lauren Miller.

Other recipients of the State’s grants include Chenango County Historical Society & Museum, which will use their funding to support masonry restoration and architectural preservation on their historical Ward School No. 2 building, a section where the museum operates public spaces for programming.

Women’s Studio Workshop, Inc., located in the Mid-Hudson section of New York, will use their grant funding for infrastructure purposes as well.

In New York City, The Juilliard School and The Carnegie Hall Corporation will both receive grants in the amount of $900,000.

NYSCA has given over $50 million in grants over the course of its history. Eighty-eight projects have been supported and behind that number, 50 % are reaching final phases of completion.

NYSCA Chair Katherine Nicholls said investing in arts projects that encourage accessibility will help rebuild New York State. “Investing in projects that promote accessibility, energy efficiency, and sustainability is essential as we rebuild New York State and move towards an even brighter future,” Nicholls said. “We are proud to invest in these inspiring projects that will fuel economic growth and promote vitality in communities across New York State.”