Proposals to be a part of Dunkirk’s $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award last week were fairly impressive. In all, 22 projects were discussed to build up downtown and Central Avenue.

Requests for DRI funding totaled $27.4 million for potential projects costing more than $138 million. One of the most significant plans aims fill an empty spot across from City Hall. Nostra Development wants to erect a 7,500-square-foot building there, with ground floor commercial space and 45 to 50 “market rate apartments” upstairs. The overall project cost is envisioned as $11.75 million.

Also of note, is the Clarion Hotel seeking $2.2 million for renovations while Jamestown Community College is asking for the same amount for a workforce development center it intends to place on Central Avenue.

While excitement filled just about every one of the suggestions, one of the key ingredients needs to be sustainability. While it would be great to fund every opportunity, some of those presented seem to be looking for a quick one-time shot in the arm.

Dunkirk’s downtown, as evidenced today, needs more than a one- or two-year solution. It needs a well thought-out vision that includes a good dose of private investment for development to build on these projects.

That plan, at the moment, is missing.