SCHENECTADY, N.Y. -- Some areas of Schenectady may be getting a face lift -- thanks to a grant program called the Thriving Neighborhood Challenge.

Robert Carreau, the executive director of the grant, says as much as $250,000 could be awarded to start neighborhood projects, based on the ideas of residents.

"They live here and they often know more about what the challenges are and what some of the solution could be," Carreau said.

It was standing room only at the information forum as residents came out to give their input.

"One of the big things we need is a drug store or grocery store," one resident said. 

"It's best if the ideas and partnerships come from the people in the neighborhood because there is a sense of ownership," said another resident. 

Organizers say they've already received $100,000 to kick start the first round projects.

They're seeking proposal entries for health and safety, environment, or public art, but they said no idea is too big or small.

"It could be simple something like I want to fix my an ugly corner on the street and make it prettier and nicer because it been an eyesore for so long," Carreau said.

They are hoping this will not only improve areas of Schenectady but bring residents closer together.

They're also accepting ideas online, with an October 19 deadline. In January they'll release the final awarded for the project.