State revitalization funding expected to reshape village business district.
ANGOLA, N.Y. — The Village of Angola is preparing for major changes after receiving a $4.5 million state grant aimed at revitalizing its downtown business district. Local business owners say the investment could help transform the community into a more vibrant destination while preserving its small-town charm.
Village leaders say the funding will support a series of redevelopment projects designed to improve downtown infrastructure, assist local businesses and attract more visitors to the area.
This story continues below.
Business owners across Angola say they are already seeing momentum build as new shops and restaurants begin opening throughout the village.
“There are so many businesses that are coming through and just walking the path of just getting up and running,” Azalia Garlow said. “It will be an amazing boost.”
Part of that boost will directly benefit Azalias Juicery, which is set to receive $804,000 from the state grant package. Garlow said the funding will allow the business to expand its operations and create more space for customers.
“So expanding the juicery, the dining area, expanding our production area and then the back area for people to enjoy just coming and eating and just being a safe place,” Garlow said.
The business has quickly become a popular gathering spot for residents of all ages since opening downtown.
“It’s awesome to see that not only little kids but older people and everybody in between have been really receptive to our awesome juices and grab-and-go meals,” Garlow said.
Just a few blocks away, John Billittier is working to bring a classic Italian dining experience to the village through his restaurant, Pellitteri’s Casa di Parm.
“Wanted to give this room a 1920s old yesteryear look,” Billittier said while renovating the space.
Billittier said his experience in the restaurant industry comes from years spent working alongside family members at the well-known Buffalo restaurant Chef’s.
“My uncle owner of Chef’s and my aunt worked there 29 years. I was taught well by them,” Billittier said. “I had my father by my side teaching me well. My dad worked there for 65 years.”
While no formal plans have been finalized, Billittier said he hopes his business could also benefit from future small business grants connected to the state funding initiative.
“I might be eligible for part of the small grants that they’re coming up with, I’m hoping,” he said. “I’d like to repave the parking lot, reside the outside, maybe put some windows on the second floor.”
As redevelopment efforts continue, residents and business owners say the state investment could mark the beginning of a new chapter for downtown Angola.
Dining and Cooking