ROC, NY July 2025

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Looking In, Not Just At Dear Readers, This issue is deeply personal to me.

I’m a lifelong Rochesterian, raised on Albemarle Street in the 10th Ward—an area that pulsed with kids, community, and mutual respect. We looked out for each other, honored our friends’ parents, and embraced all the big and small things our city had to offer. It was a place that shaped me, and it’s a city I’ve never stopped loving—even as it has changed around me.

I’ve witnessed Rochester’s highs and lows: the loss of bedrock industries that once defined our economy, and the rise of new organizations that now propel us toward fresh opportunity. These shifts aren’t just economic—they’re emotional. They tug at our sense of identity and home.

That emotional thread is what inspired me to launch ROC City Lifestyle—to offer a reprieve from the noise and division of daily life, and to remind us of the beauty and value that still surrounds us. It’s also why the “Explore” theme this month resonates so deeply. It’s about looking at our city through a new lens, with a willingness to see not just what it was—but what it is and can be.

When I read Amol Shrikande’s The Essence of Rochester, I felt a profound connection.

His reflections gave voice to the pride, nostalgia, and optimism I’ve felt about our area all my life. His open letter in this issue challenges all of us—whether we’re lifelong lovers of Rochester, skeptics, or simply indifferent—to slow down and see this city anew.

And that same spirit of emotional perspective is what Tammy Fichter brings in this month’s local life feature. We asked Tammy, a Licensed Real Estate Salesperson with Empire Realty Group, to share her thoughts on what it’s like to live in Rochester. You might expect charts and median sale prices. But Tammy offers something more personal—and more valuable. She turns the focus from square footage to soul, showing us what it feels like to call Rochester home.

Our cover image by Natalie Fox captures that same intention. The Liberty Pole is an iconic structure—photographed a thousand times—but Natalie invites us to look at it from within. It’s a metaphor for this issue, and for our city. Sometimes all it takes is a shift in perspective to rediscover something truly special.

On behalf of myself and my partner in this endeavor, Laura Bennett, here’s to exploring Rochester with fresh eyes.

B E T T Y D O LC E , P U B L I S H E R @ROCCITYLIFESTYLE

July 2025 PUBLISHER

Betty Dolce | Betty.Dolce@citylifestyle.com P U B L I CAT I O N D I R E C TO R

Laura Bennett | laura.bennett@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Mary Stone | mary.stone@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mary Stone | mary.stone@citylifestyle.com Katrina M. Randall, Trish Pino, Lisa Barbato, Tammy Fichter C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

Natalie Fox, Renée Veniskey

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt COO Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise.

Proverbs 3:5-6 ROC City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the ROC area’s most affluent neighborhoods.

Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions.

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in ROC City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue JU LY 2 0 2 5 | EX P LO R E

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Featured

12 16 20 32 6

Turning the Page

Rochester writes a new chapter.

Neighborly Love

Exploring the North Winton Village Neighborhood.

Reality vs. Perception

When will public perception catch up to Rochester’s new reality?

Bridging the Gap

Bringing Humanity Back to Community

16 On the Cover

Departments

In this striking perspective, Natalie Fox steps inside the towering framework of the Liberty Pole in downtown Rochester and turns her lens upward and inward. The photo doesn’t just depict a landmark—it reimagines it.

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Lifestyle Letter

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City Scene

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Business Monthly

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Education Corner EDUCATION

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Our Town SHOPPING

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Must See EDUCATION

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Local Limelight REAL ESTATE

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Realty Report REAL ESTATE

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Locals Only ENTERTAINMENT

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Maker’s Studio PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

Photography: Natalie Fox

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Events

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city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

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1: Libations are poured and friends gather on any given night at...Native. (1-3) 2: Members of Phi Beta Sigma Kevin Murphy, Calvin Cole, Ajamu Kitwana, Vandell Marshall, Christopher Davis 3: Sara White, Nidia Benitez 4: Sip & Shop at Sarah Rizzo Skin Spa & Boutique. Sarah Rizzo with Jennifer Snyder 5: Epicuren representative Stephanie D’Aloisio with a Sip & Shop guest. 6: At the ROC Heart Ball- Lori DeMay. 7: American Heart Association’s ROC Heart Ball. Amy Derks and Kerry Stulb.

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TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ R O C C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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C I T Y SC E N E

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business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Elvio's Opens on Empire Boulevard Elvio’s, a new music-themed coffee and dining location, has opened at 1350 Empire Boulevard on the Penfield/Webster border — overlooking Irondequoit Bay with seasonal outdoor seating. Co-owner Elvio Fernandes is a member of the band Daughtry (keys, vocals, songwriting) and his brother, Dan, is the CIA-trained chef creating Portuguesethemed menu favorites (plus fruit smoothies and an array of coffees and baked goods). Live music is added to the menu on weekends. Learn more at ElviosCoffee.com.

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Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce Awards July 30th-The Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce will host the 2025 Business Person of the Year Awards Celebration at the Hyatt Regency Rochester.

Additionally, the GRCC will celebrate the 2025 Inclusive Leadership Awards on July 10th at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center.

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ROC House Renovations Open New Showroom ROC House Renovations invites you to explore its new showroom at 3894 Buffalo Road. Discover inspired design solutions for kitchens, bathrooms, and home additions, featuring premium MasterBrand cabinetry, Cambria Quartz countertops, and stylish options for custom showers. Whether you're dreaming of a sleek kitchen upgrade or a luxurious bath retreat, their design experts are there to help bring your vision to life.

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TURNING THE PAGE Amol Shrikhande

ROCHESTER WRITES A NEW CHAPTER. ARTICLE BY AMOL SHRIKHANDE

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EDU CAT ION COR N E R | ED U CAT ION

Fireworks Over Downtown Rochester Photo by Natalie Fox

Dear Rochesterian, Have you heard about our city’s third chapter?

I’m sure you know about the first two.

The first one was of the uplifting variety, the one in which our humble city on the Genesee River blossomed to international prominence. Along the way, it birthed brands like Western Union, Bausch + Lomb, Kodak, Xerox and Champion.

The second chapter was, well, less uplifting.

Companies downsized or relocated, and the urban core shrank considerably. It’s the chapter that many in Rochester still talk about.

But quietly, with relatively little fanfare, a group of hard-working locals has started something new—the third chapter. This group has realized that despite obvious hiccups, the enterprise and creativity that have defined Rochester are alive and well. The fruit of their labor is captured in data, some of which might surprise you: As of the 2020 Census, the city’s population was no longer declining.

In the same Census, Monroe County’s population was its largest ever.

Downtown has seen its residential population triple in the 21st century.

The same downtown is now home to a Fortune 500 company—Constellation Brands.

The regional workforce today is greater than it was in Kodak’s heyday.

These figures serve as a welcome complement to a truth about Rochester that has never changed: It is a cultural juggernaut.

Over the past two decades, what started as a modest jazz festival is now one of the most prominent in the entire country—in the heart of downtown.

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Also based downtown is Rochester’s Fringe Festival, a celebration of the performing arts that is one of the largest of its kind nationally.

Anchoring the city are a collection of institutions that, while taken for granted locally, are the envy of many elsewhere.

The Eastman School of Music is one of the world’s best music conservatories, helping ensure a pipeline to the highly respected Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra.

The Memorial Art Gallery and Rochester Contemporary Art Center remain sources of pride, as does the George Eastman Museum, the world’s oldest photography museum.

Live theater continues to prosper, both at the iconic Auditorium and the always-innovative Geva.

The charming Little Theatre more than delivers when it comes to independent and foreign films.

And finally, there’s the expanded Strong Museum, also known as one of the best children’s museums in the nation.

Taken together, the third chapter has a vision, one that sees past the bruises and understands that a place this enriching is destined to move forward again.

Those involved would love if progress were exponential, but they’re rightfully proud of all that has been accomplished thus far.

Highway removal has facilitated development and reconnected neighborhoods. Meanwhile, a transit center has opened up possibility on Main Street, and a much-needed Amtrak station has refreshed train travel.

Real estate developers see opportunity, and every city’s lifeline—bold entrepreneurs—see hope.

The goal is not to go back to what we had, because what’s flowering today is something altogether original.

None of this, dear Rochesterian, is about denying the pain of the city’s second chapter.

It’s about appreciating the good people who have helped us turn the page.

The narrative of revitalization is, of course, still being written, and there’s plenty of space for fresh voices.

Those already on board know they’re on a bumpy ride—but also an exhilarating one.

Please, come be a part of the story.

Sincerely, Amol V. Shrikhande

“The goal is not to

go back to what we

had, because what’s flowering today is something

altogether original.”

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EDU CAT ION COR N E R | ED U CAT ION

Amol Shrikhande is a nephrologist on Long Pond Rd. at Rochester Regional Health. He moved to Rochester with his family in 2010. In 2021, he started the website ComposeMD, where he writes about his passion—the undervalued American city. He recently began a series of short books called “The Essence of Our Cities.” The first in the series, of course, is “The Essence of Rochester, New York" available on Amazon.

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N E IGH B OR LY L OV E Home on Maxson Street

Exploring the North Winton Village Neighborhood ARTICLE BY TRISH PINO

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O UR TOWN | S HO P P I NG

Inspiration blooms quickly when strolling the tree-lined streets of the North Winton Village. Nestled between the buzz of Rochester’s urban center and the calm of the surrounding suburbs, North Winton has quietly evolved into one of the city’s most beloved areas.

Pandamonium Coffee and Jens Artisan Bread

“The area has changed over the years but has kept the small village feeling...”

- Cortney McKenna, Rochester Picture Framing Bordering the prestigious Browncroft neighborhood, the North Winton Village stands apart with a blend of historic charm and new energy. Marked by storied architecture and picturesque paths, the neighborhood is home to multi-generational businesses, new creative ventures and a diverse group of dedicated residents who take great pride in their community.

REFLECTING ON THE PAST

Once farmland in the early 1900s, the village transitioned into a residential neighborhood in the 1920s. A second housing boom in the 1960s brought new life to the community, but its next major turning point didn’t come until nearly 40 years later with the opening of ARTISANworks in the early 2000s. This ignited a wave of new business growth and community investment. Empty storefronts found new life, while icons such as the Winfield Grill and Mayer’s Paint & Hardware—staples since

the 1930s and 1960s—remained reliable cornerstones of the community.

Today, the North Winton Village thrives with charming residential streets and a booming commercial corridor that hums with activity.

LIVING HERE

What sets the neighborhood apart is its livability. A mix of single-family homes, two-family dwellings and apartments create a diverse and inclusive housing landscape. With close proximity to downtown, expressways, and nearby parks, the neighborhood offers an easily accessible urban lifestyle. Nearly everything residents need is within walking distance—from grocery stores and pharmacies to banks, a local library, household repair shops, salons, and pet groomers. Realtor.com gave the neighborhood national recognition as one of the country’s “hottest” zip codes, for its affordability, charm and accessibility.

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Top: The Iconic Mayer Paint & Hardware

Much of this success is the result of collaboration among longtime residents, forward-thinking developers, and a dedicated neighborhood association, which was formed in 1995 to focus on the beautification, preservation, culture and safety of the area.

From neighborhood watch groups and clean-up days to garden tours and seasonal festivals, residents are invested in shaping the future while preserving the past. After years of consistent grassroots effort, the North Winton Village is not just “on the rise”—it has arrived.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NORTH WINTON VILLAGE

Today, the streets buzz with energy. The scent of fresh-baked goods lingers in the air while the soft glow of porch lights illuminates its sidewalks.

Beloved businesses like Lamp Repair and Rizzi's restaurant now share the streets with new arrivals like the Boot Room Pub and Jen’s Artisan Bakery.

The blend of old and new is not just incidental—it’s intentional. Start-ups such as Pandamonium Coffee and The Hive Beetique prioritize local sourcing, sustainability and community partnerships, collaborating with local nonprofits to strengthen neighborhood ties.

On any given night, the streets come alive as locals head to neighborhood bars, live music venues and late-night eateries. The flourishing arts scene also adds a vibrancy that further distinguishes North Winton from other parts of the city. Annual events, like the North Winton Village Festival, reinforce the neighborhood’s sense of community.

From gardens to parks, art and shopping, there are many neighborhood gems to experience.

LINEAR GARDEN

Over four decades, this charming community garden has blossomed into a vibrant, volunteer-powered green space stretching from Mayfield Street to East Main, offering a peaceful retreat, gathering place, and venue for beloved events like the annual North Winton Village Festival.

TRYON PARK

Tucked between Browncroft and Empire Boulevards, this 82-acre park offers scenic hiking trails and wetlands views, along with space for baseball, softball, and tennis—all within a largely undeveloped natural setting.

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O UR TOWN | S HO P P I NG

“There’s an authenticity that reminds me of my childhood, where neighbors still look out for each other and small businesses aren’t just stores--they’re gathering places that keep our community’s spirit alive.”

- Angela Liu, Pandamonium Coffee

Visit the North Winton Village and explore a variety of local shops, restaurants and boutiques that are just a short walk or drive away.

ARTISANworks is a 50,000 square-foot, selffunded, not-for-profit art space that features a diverse collection of art, antiques and memorabilia and hosts a wide range of events.

Mayer Paint & Hardware: A community staple since the 1960s, this multi-generational, family-run store offers the service of a local shop with the selection of a superstore, supplying everything from Benjamin Moore paints to power tools and gardening gear.

The same homemade pasta, ravioli and sauces that are made fresh daily and served at Merchants Wood Fired Pizza & Bistro can be purchased to go at The Pasta Shoppe.

A sampling from Jens Artisan Bread

OTHER NOTABLE BUSINESSES EXPRESSIONS FLOWERS & GIFTS

Located on Merchants Road, this beloved florist has served the community for nearly 50 years, offering quality flowers and gifts.

LAUGHING GULL CHOCOLATES

Combines a passion for exceptional, handcrafted confections with a commitment to social impact, using chocolate as a vehicle to support community initiatives and ethical practices.

ROCHESTER PICTURE FRAMING

A family-owned business serving the area for 50 years, Rochester Picture Framing is renowned for its custom framing expertise and craftsmanship.

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Elipse of The Metropolitan

WHEN WILL PUBLIC PERCEPTION CATCH UP TO ROCHESTER’S NEW REALITY?

Realit y vs. Perception ARTICLE BY MARY STONE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE FOX

Times Square Building

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M UST SE E | EDUCATI O N

“

“ Ro c h e s t e r s t i l l h a s g re at p ot e nt i a l t o b e a t e c h hu b fo r t h e n at io n . . .”

A vibrant city center is crucial for a region’s economic growth. Since the pandemic, the City of Rochester has been steadily rebounding, but is perception keeping pace with momentum?

The City’s Bureau of Architecture and Engineering right now is overseeing hundreds of millions of dollars in investments in Rochester’s natural assets, its heritage and history, Rochester Mayor Malik Evans said in April during his 2025 State of the City Address.

He pointed to last year’s relocation of Constellation Brands’ world headquarters to Downtown Rochester, followed by an $80 million private investment to renovate the historic structure under downtown’s Mercury statue.

He pointed to ROC the Riverway, a revitalization initiative in the Genesee River corridor to connect the community to the river with investments in parks, trails and historic sites. With more than $100 million committed from New York State, ROC the Riverway encompasses more than two dozen projects, including a few that are already complete: • The Aqueduct District Street Improvement Project • The Austin Steward Plaza • The Frank and Janet Lamb Sister Cities Bridge • The Pont de Rennes pedestrian bridge Building on these investments, Gov. Kathy Hochul selected a team of local and national landscape and urban architecture firms to design the High Falls State Park–a proposed 40-acre park around the High Falls and the Genesee River downtown.

And along the northern and eastern borders of Downtown, the city is advancing plans to remove the Inner Loop expressway and reclaim more than 22 acres of property for redevelopment. Construction, the mayor noted, will begin in 2027.

While public and private investment in Rochester ramped up since the pandemic; violence and poverty both are markedly down.

Rochester’s poverty rate has reached its lowest point in more than a decade: from 51 percent in 2014 to 41 percent at the end of 2023. Childhood poverty has dropped from 34 percent to 27 percent over the same

period, the Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative reports. “Now, we’re certainly not celebrating a 41 percent total poverty rate, or a 27 percent rate of childhood poverty,” the Mayor said. “But this steady decline shows us that this is a challenge that can be solved, and it reaffirms our commitment to helping all of our citizens escape the cycle of poverty forever.”

Last year, the Rochester Police Department reported an overall 30 percent drop in crime from 2023, across major violent and property categories.

Yet, the total number of visits to Rochester remains down from pre-pandemic levels. In 2019, the Rochester Downtown Development Corp. logged 20.9 million visits. In 2022, total visits were 15.4 million.

The perception of Rochester often seems outdated, especially by people from outside the city, notes Matthew Simonis, Director of Zoning and Permitting with the City of Rochester. In conversations with his suburban counterparts and friends, he notices a pervasive yet often unsubstantiated fear.

“They'll make comments by saying, ‘Oh, I went to Branca downtown. (Branca Midtown is located downtown at 280 East Broad St.) At first I was concerned, but it looked great. I had no idea,’ Simonis recounts.

In the 1990s, major cities like New York experienced dramatic spikes in violent loss-of-life incidents. Rochester reported 69 such incidents at its peak. In 2024, the Rochester Police Department reported 37 such cases, reflecting a marked decline.

According to the Rochester Police Department, incidents across violent and property-crime categories were down an overall 30 percent from 2023 to 2024. In some categories, rates fell to levels unseen since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Today, all key firearm violence metrics have fallen by about half from their high-water marks of the pandemic,” Mayor Evans said in April.

While there is no known new research that shows local perception of Rochester's crime, a 2013 survey

by Rochester Institute of Technology and the Center for Public Safety Initiatives showed that most locals of the nearly 300 people polled, underestimated CONTINUED >

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One East Avenue

The Metropolitan

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M UST SE E | EDUCATI O N

A v i b r a nt c it y c e nt e r i s c r uc i a l fo r a re g io n’s e c o n o m ic g row t h .

”

Innovation Square

murder levels nationally, but dramatically overestimated them in Rochester.

Respondents from the region demonstrated a strong tendency to see Rochester as having a much higher proportion of all US murders than is actually true. “Overall, people seemed to overestimate danger in their most familiar city but saw other cities as even more dangerous. This is suggestive about both the power of perceptions about crime and the potential value of improved communication about the topic,” the report states.

Downtown Rochester is not just a concept or a dot on a map. It is the beating heart of our region. Yet, we tend to think of downtown as separate–as a problem–instead of the cultural hub it should be.

One reason for that, Simonis says, is a decline in population.

In the 1950s, Rochester was the 32nd largest city in the United States; its population of 332,000 was 98% white. Rochester’s decline in population followed a national trend in urban depopulation brought on by factors, such as suburbanization and racial tensions. Population dropped by 18 percent between 1970 and 1980 as people moved to newly built tract homes in the suburbs.

Even though the decline has leveled off, most people alive today have only experienced a shrinking Rochester, Simonis says.

“It is now the year 2025 which means that everyone 85 years old and younger has only ever experienced depopulation.”

“There is a desperate need to reframe the conversation about the fact that Rochester is experiencing a Renaissance in many ways; maybe not a huge uptick in permanent residents, but a huge uptick in new businesses and new areas to come into and enjoy. I mean, we're sitting in a building that was vacant ten years ago, right?”

Simonis is referring to 1255 University Ave., a formerly under-utilized industrial space that in 2016 was converted into 105,000-square-foot office and retail space with more than a dozen loft-style apartments.

He points to the Culver Road and University Avenue area as one example of steady development over the decades that has transformed the area. Pockets of private investment like it, over the decades, have helped redefine the city.

There have been over 20 new projects, conversions, historic renovations and infrastructure upgrades since 2020, the Rochester Downtown Development Corp. reported last year.

Cities, in general, are built organically in this way, and Rochester has done the work. Yet, visitors who do venture into Rochester sometimes bring their suburban expectations, Simonis says. One example is parking. In successful cities, however, parking is difficult to find. That’s actually a good sign, Simonis says, while adding that it often means it's a place people want to be.

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An economically strong Rochester and vibrant city center go hand-in-hand. And economically speaking, experts say the Rochester region is poised for growth.

Six years ago, Ford Professor of Economics at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Co-Author of the 2019 book “Jump-Starting America: How Breakthrough Science Can Revive Economic Growth and the American Dream,” Jonathan Gruber visited Rochester. At the time, Gruber and his co-author had listed Rochester #1 among 102 urban communities they identified with the potential to become next generation technology hubs.

ROCHESTER RANKED FIRST FOR ITS:

• Strong university base • Highly skilled working-age workforce where onethird of the population has a college degree • Attractive standard of living with an average home price of $170,000 In order to grow, Gruber said in 2019 that Rochester needed an enormous financial commitment to science to attract the best scientists and capital to finance new businesses. ROC City Lifestyle reached out to Gruber recently to see if, post-pandemic, Rochester still has the potential he saw years ago.

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M UST SE E | EDUCATI O N

“I haven’t really followed what has happened in Rochester post-Covid, but I would say more generally that nothing has really changed locally: Rochester still has great potential to be a tech hub for the nation, but it will need a federal boost to do so,” Gruber says.

In recent years, significant federal investment was made in the domestic semiconductor industry through initiatives like the CHIPS and Science Act. The Buffalo-RochesterSyracuse corridor has already received initial funding toward becoming a designated Tech Hub, which the local chamber estimates could support more than 115,000 new jobs.

Challenges remain, however. According to MIT’s Jonathan Gruber, a limited portion of the allocated funds has been distributed, and future support remains unclear amid shifting federal priorities. Delays in funding awards could slow down progress in emerging Tech Hubs like Rochester.

But with increased public safety, investment in development and lower poverty rates, Rochester has momentum– so much so that Mayor Evans repeated the word more than 50 times in his hour-long State of the City address.

"Hope begets opportunity. Opportunity begets hope,” he said. “That is the self-perpetuation of the new momentum we are building in Rochester.”

Downtown Aglow

“ Innovation SquareA Different Perspective

Ro c h e s t e r n e e d s f i n a n c i a l c o m m it m e n t t o a t t r a c t t h e b e s t s c i e n t i s t s a n d c a p it a l t o f i n a n c e n ew b u s i n e s s e s .

”

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ARTICLE BY TAMMY FICHTER

Local Life, Rochester Style A REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL’S PERSPECTIVE ON CHOOSING TO LIVE IN ROCHESTER

In a country where cities that compete for attention with skyscrapers and sunshine also have steep living costs, Rochester, New York quietly stands out—not with flashy pretense, but with substance, soul and a lifestyle that balances affordability with culture, innovation and community.

Tucked beside Lake Ontario and traversed by the Genesee River and the Eric Canal, Rochester offers a mix of urban and suburban amenities and natural beauty. Yes, the winters are real—snowy and occasionally long—but they come with a sense of seasonal rhythm, and the city's commitment to embracing all four seasons means there’s always something happening, from the Lilac Festival in May to cozy winter markets in December.

“In an era when homeownership feels like a pipe dream for many Americans, Rochester offers real

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Tammy Fichter Photo by Renée Veniskey LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | REAL E STAT E

estate that’s not just accessible but attractive.”

Affordability: One of Rochester’s biggest draws is its affordability. In an era when homeownership feels like a pipe dream for many Americans, Rochester offers real estate that’s not just accessible but attractive.

Young professionals, families, and retirees can find homes in charming neighborhoods, many of which are within walking distance of parks, restaurants and historic architecture—for a fraction of the cost one would find in comparable cities.

Vibrancy: The city has a rich cultural and artistic scene fueled by institutions like the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the George Eastman Museum and the Memorial Art Gallery. Add local craft beer, bourbon distilleries, farm-totable restaurants and a variety of international cuisines, and you’ve got a city that punches well above its weight.

Education: Education and innovation are also deeply woven into Rochester’s DNA. Home to four local universities including the University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), the area is a hub for research and technological advancement.

These institutions, combined with a strong startup ecosystem, make Rochester a stronghold for the creative and tech-minded.

The People: The sense of community here is palpable.

According to Conde Naste’s 2023 Friendliest Cities article, Rochester was ranked number 2. Residents take pride in their city, from beautifying local parks to organizing neighborhood events and supporting homegrown businesses. There’s a combination of grit and warmth to Rochesterians—a sense that this is a place where people look out for one another, where roots matter, and where change is embraced without erasing the past.

Living in Rochester is a choice to live well, not extravagantly but meaningfully. It’s a city that invites you to slow down, dig in and find joy not just in what it offers, but in what you can contribute.

Let’s not forget the light traffic: the commute to anywhere in the city is twenty minutes.

In a world of expensive zip codes and overhyped destinations, Rochester reminds us that greatness isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s quietly waiting by the lake.

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Greater Rochester Real Estate Market Snapshot For those interested in the quantitative aspects, here's an overview of the current real estate market in the Greater Rochester area.

Housing Market Overview • Median Home Sale Price: As of April 2025, the median sale price in Rochester is approximately $168,000, marking a 20% increase year-over-year. Redfin • Median Price per Square Foot: The median price stands at $116, up 22.1% from the previous year. Redfin+1Rochester Beacon+1 • Market Activity: Homes are selling rapidly, with an average of 10 days on the market, indicating a highly competitive environment. Redfin • Regional Highlights: Monroe County, encompassing Rochester, has been recognized as one of the hottest real estate markets in the U.S., ranking fifth nationwide in March 2025 for market competitiveness. New York Post

Comparison with Similarly Sized U.S. Cities City Median Home Price YoY Price Change Median Days on Market Rochester, NY ~$168,000 +20% 10 days Pittsburgh, PA ~$250,000 +10% 15 days Buffalo, NY ~$200,000 +12% 12 days Cleveland, OH ~$180,000 +8% 14 days Grand Rapids, MI ~$275,000 +9% 13 days Note: Data sourced from various real estate market reports and may vary based on specific neighborhoods and property types.

Rochester Ranked #2 Best Market for First-Time Homebuyers In January 2025, Realtor.com ranked Rochester, NY, as the #2 Best Market for First-Time Homebuyers in the United States, just behind Harrisburg, PA. Rochester’s ranking was based on factors such as having the lowest median house price in the top ten and the lowest price-to-income ratio on the list. As well, Rochester's city government offers a Home Purchase Assistance Program, which provides grants of up to $6,000 for closing cost assistance to income-eligible first-time buyers, making Rochester an attractive option for those entering the housing market.

Key Takeaways • Affordability: Rochester's median home price remains significantly below the national average, offering affordable options for homebuyers.marketwatch.com • Market Growth: The city has experienced substantial yearover-year growth, indicating a robust and appreciating market.

• Competitive Landscape: With homes selling in just 10 days on average, buyers should be prepared for swift decision-making in this fast-paced market.

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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | REAL E STAT E

realty report A S A M P L E O F R E C E N T LY S O L D P R O P E R T I E S I N R O C , N Y. TOWN/ZIP CODE

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/LIST

AV E R AG E D O M

Victor 14564

$377,410

$434,840

17%

12

Fairport 14450

$402,131

$482,803

20%

6

Penfield 14526

$453,885

$548,957

20.00%

7

Pittsford 14534

$504,218

$586,436

17.00%

22

City/Brighton 14618

$487,191

$548,166

15.00%

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City/Eastside 14610

$310,412

$403,891

32%

6

West Irondequoit 14617

$273,129

$312,171

18%

8

Webster 14580

$369,993

$443,708

20.00%

7

East Irondequoit 14622

$233,239

$296,288

26.00%

6

Ontario 14519

$302,771

$365,714

20%

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This data is a sampling of sold properties from May 2025. Source: IRES MLS system.

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Fall Fest

2025 Dow ntow n Def i n itely Event s Good Reasons to Visit Downtown

Yoga on the Riverway • Tuesday, July 8 • Tuesday, August 12 • Tuesday, September 16 • Noon to 1 p.m.

• Austin Steward Plaza, Genesee Riverway Trail • Rochester • Free!

Yoga on the Riverway offers an outdoor yoga session in the heart of downtown featuring friendly goats. Healthy grab-and-go refreshments will be available. The first 25 registrants will receive a complimentary yoga mat.

Sunset Sips • Thursday, July 17 • Thursday, August 21 • Thursday, September 11 • 5 to 7 p.m.

• Austin Steward Plaza • Free!

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LOCA LS ON LY | ENTERTA IN ME N T

Sunset Sips is a new after-work gathering that features live music, drinks, tastings and opportunities for sipping and socializing in a beautiful downtown setting.

Movies With a Downtown View • Friday, July 18 • Friday, August 29 • 7 to 10 p.m.

• Parcel 5, 285 E. Main St., Rochester • Free!

Enjoy outdoor movie nights featuring popular films, local food trucks and classic concession snacks.

Bring your own chairs. Movie titles will be announced after a public vote to determine this year’s lineup.

RPO Under the Stars • Friday, July 11 • 6 to 10 p.m.

• Parcel 5, 285 E. Main St., Rochester • Free!

Co-produced with the City of Rochester, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra will perform outdoors under the open sky. The evening’s program of featured songs will be announced later. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Bring your own chairs and blankets.

The 2025 Downtown Definitely Events series is supported by the University of Rochester, Rochester Gas and Electric, MVP Health Care, VIDA, Partners + Napier, Tipping Point Communications, with support from media partners 13WHAM, CITY Magazine, WXXI, The Little Theatre, iHeartMedia, Democrat & Chronicle, and News10NBC. Two of the events are co-produced with the City of Rochester.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROCHESTER DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT CORP.

Midday Bash • Wednesday, July 9 • Wednesday, August 6 • Wednesday, September 10 • 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

• Parcel 5, 285 E. Main St., Rochester • Free!

Midday Bash provides a lively lunch-hour experience with local food trucks, lawn games, live music, massage chairs, pop-up vendors and giveaways.

Midday Bash Fall Fest

“

“Downtown Definitely a t t r a c t e d a p p r ox i m a t e l y 2 0,0 0 0 p e o p l e t o 1 4 eve n t s i n 2 02 4 .”

RPO Under the Stars

Movies With a Downtown View

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Bridging the Gap BRINGING HUMANITY BACK TO COMMUNITY

Mercury Statue and Times Union Building

When Natalie Fox launched her photography business in 2019, it was designed to offer services that meet people and organizations where they are with empathy and humanity. This same approach was later integrated into Hu•mane Hairspace, which she opened next to her photography studio in 2024 in downtown Rochester’s Metropolitan Building.

“My humanitarian vision is very important to bridge accessibility gaps in the area,” Fox says.

“Services like hair and photography aren’t necessary in life—they’re often seen more as a luxury.” But when people face social, economic, or health challenges, they often forgo these “luxuries.”

Accessibility and inclusion are critical to Natalie Fox Brands and are two of the five principles that are at the core of her businesses. Hu•mane Hairspace, for example, was a barber shop for many years. But when the previous owner died, she took over the space and renovated it to appeal to people of all genders. Instead of “barbers” or “stylists,” the

ARTICLE BY KATRINA M. RANDALL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NATALIE FOX PHOTOGRAPHY

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M AK E R’S ST U D IO | P RO FE SSION AL SE RVICE

Strong Museum of Play

staff are a diverse group she refers to as “hair artists.”

Accessibility comes in many forms: An expectant mother may not get pregnancy photos or newborn photos because the cost of having a child is so high. Or a couple getting married can’t foot the price of a photographer on top of all the other costs. Fox wants all people to be able to have these moments of joy captured, so she works with people to make her services affordable based on each situation.

Fox says you need to know who you're working with and understand their motivations. "Different angles and lighting can create a different perception of who someone is," she says. She particularly enjoys working with individuals who are underrepresented in traditional portraiture. "I get a lot of feedback, like, 'Wow, you really captured who I am and who I identify as.'

They can see themselves in the photos, not just the perception of what society tries to make them be."

Ensuring everyone is comfortable and feels safe is also critical to her business model, illustrating one way that consent is integrated as a core principle. “If we have to touch them (clients) or move their hair, we get confirmation before we do that. Not all photographers do that. It’s important to have that dialogue.”

When Fox works with organizations or individuals, it’s important that their goals and values align, a notion that she calls “mutual development.”

Fox hopes to continue diversifying her brand by perpetuating a return to empathy and community. She plans to open a leasing business, helping to draft and create consent-driven leases focused on accessibility. Down the line, she’d also like to help other businesses provide a more human-centered approach to their services. The opportunities are open for someone as versatile as Fox, who has no background in hair and never owned a salon—and now she does.

“I think these principles can be added to every element of our businesses and subsidiaries,” she says. “Each business is another plank bridging the gap between humanity and humanity.”

“Services like hair and photography aren’t necessary in life—they’re often seen more as a luxury.” But when people face social, economic, or health challenges, they often forgo these “luxuries.”

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J U LY 2 0 2 5

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S JU LY 4 T H

Classic Downtown Fireworks Extravaganza is back for July 4th!

Downtown Rochester | 10:00 PM The Broad Street Bridge & Court Street Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic for pedestrian viewing. Bring your friends and a chair!

• Launch time: 10 p.m.

• Duration: 15-20 minutes The following streets will close at 8 p.m. and will re-open as soon as spectators leave the area after the show: • Court Street from South Avenue to Exchange Boulevard • Broad Street from South Avenue to Exchange Boulevard.

JU LY 1 2 T H - 1 3T H

Corn Hill Arts Festival Corn Hill Neighborhood | 10:00 AM A Rochester summer tradition, the Corn Hill Arts Festival takes over the city’s oldest residential neighborhood in mid-July. This festival is a paradise for art lovers, featuring hundreds of artists selling handmade paintings, jewelry, sculptures, and more. Strolling through the historic streets, you’ll also find live music, great food, and a welcoming, community-driven atmosphere.

JU LY 1 6T H

Music on Main Main Street, Victor | 5:00 PM Bring the whole family out for a FREE community mini concert series hosted by Discover Victor, NY! Happening every third Wednesday from 5–8 PM, it's the perfect mid-week outing for families to enjoy great music, local eats, and outdoor fun. Pack the stroller, bring a blanket or lawn chairs, and come make some summer memories!

JU LY 1 8T H- 2 0 T H

Canandaigua Arts & Music Festival Downtown Canandaigua | 12:00 PM Celebrating the 37th Annual Festival, this is a free, family-friendly celebration featuring over 150 juried artists, live music, food vendors, and interactive activities in downtown Canandaigua, NY. This vibrant summer event showcases the creativity of the Finger Lakes region with art, culture, and community spirit.

JU LY 1 8T H & 2 5T H

Friday Night Concerts in the Park Webster Village's Gazebo Park, 27 North Avenue | 7:00 PM 7/18- The Earthtones - Featuring 70's/80's music including favorites from Fleetwood Mac, Billy Joel, Hall & Oates, ABBA and more!

7/25 - The Sarah DeValliere Band "Randy Newman meets Joni Mitchell in a bar" Singer / Songwriter Sarah DeValliere performs original songs along with hits from Joni Mitchel, Sarah McLachlan, the Beatles, and Alanis Morissette.

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Spencerport Canal Days Downtown Spencerport | 10:00 AM A classic small-town festival experience along the historic Erie Canal is just a short drive away. This event features craft vendors, food, live music, and even a classic car show. Whether you’re exploring the village shops or taking a scenic boat ride, it’s a charming way to spend a summer weekend. Shuttle service is offered at Spencerport High School.

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EVE N TS

THE CONTINENTAL LOOK: SUMMER As most wardrobes change with the seasons, so does the Continental style for men. We quantify it as light in color and less structured. But of course, there’s a rule to every piece that makes up this breezy, sophisticated summer style.

THE SPORTS JACKET | Let’s begin with the Italian word, “spalla a camicia,” which is a soft and natural shirt-sleeve shoulder jacket. This means no shoulder pads and minimal lining. Of course, we want something light during the warmer months, so we use fabrics like linen, silk, and light wools.

THE SHIRT | Color is important, with shirts tailored in light pastel colors. They are typically worn with an open collar, and ties are rarely worn.

THE STYLE | From a style standpoint, jackets usually have external patch pockets, while trousers should be sans a belt. Finish the style with a summer shoe, like a loafer.

THE FUNCTION | In Italy, most men wear their shirt cuffs undone and avoid socks altogether. It’s not so much about the look though—it’s about practicality. Your neck, wrist, and ankles are pulse points. Naturally, the rest of the body feels cool when you keep those areas unencumbered.

Sharp threads. Strong style. See you in the mirror. ~ ONE Custom Clothier

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CUSTOM MADE S U I T S • S P O R T C O AT S S L A C K S • F O R M A LW E A R

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