The Fairport Office of Community and Economic Development (OCED) launched a new podcast, “Fairport Forward,” a conversation-based series designed to explore the topics residents care about most and highlight the ideas shaping the Village’s future. Produced by Fairport OCED and hosted by Executive Director Johnna McCooey and Associate Director of Communications Amy Olds, each episode takes a deeper look at key themes ranging from village character and housing to accessibility, arts and culture, public spaces, and sustainability.
“Fairport Forward” explores what the Village can become, how it can grow, and how the community can help shape its future. Each episode takes a deeper look at the ideas, values, and opportunities that can move Fairport forward while staying true to the spirit that defines it. Episode themes were developed directly from the voices of residents and community members, who recently shared their feedback in a community survey as part of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) grant application process. Season 1 of the podcast features conversations directly stemming from community feedback and local context, with the goal of keeping residents informed and engaged as Fairport considers future decisions and opportunities.
Listeners can find “Fairport Forward” on multiple podcast platforms, including YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more beginning December 9, 2025. New episodes will be released weekly on Tuesdays.
How to Listen
• Podcast: “Fairport Forward”
• Available on: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more
• Launch date: December 9, 2025
• More information: https://fairportforward.buzzsprout.com
• Subscribe: https://bit.ly/fairportforward
ABOUT THE DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION INITIATIVE (DRI)
The Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) is a New York State program that awards $10 million in grant funding to one community in each of the state’s ten economic development regions—Fairport is competing for the Finger Lakes region’s designation. The DRI is designed to transform downtown neighborhoods into vibrant, walkable centers that serve as magnets for economic growth, housing, and cultural activity.
Through the DRI, selected communities receive funding to implement strategic investment plans that advance economic development, improve public spaces, and enhance quality of life. Fairport’s application builds on the community’s strong foundation of economic vitality, walkability, and waterfront access—seeking to identify transformative projects that align with the community’s shared vision for an even more dynamic and sustainable downtown.
ABOUT FAIRPORT OCED
Fairport Office of Community and Economic Development (OCED) supports the continued growth of the Village of Fairport into the most sought-after destination in the Finger Lakes Region of New York State. Through its three agencies, Fairport OCED focuses on providing investment incentives, supporting local businesses, and improving the quality of life for village residents and visitors.