Why We Took Action
 

PAVE began with one issue: the Village Board’s approach to allowing the concentrated placement of multiple cannabis dispensaries in downtown Nyack.

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As it became clear that multiple dispensaries could be introduced within a small area and short timeframe in the heart of our village, community members spoke out—at public meetings, through letters to the Village Board, and by signing petitions—urging the adoption of stronger, more thoughtful laws to protect our community and its youth.

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Yet despite sustained and passionate public engagement, we walked away with the unmistakable sense that the outcome had already been decided long before the process concluded. The voices of our community were heard—but not truly considered and the rationale behind the final decisions were rooted more in personal judgment of the Board than in clear, evidence-based analysis.

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For many, this was the tipping point. It raised a deeper question: if community voices could be overlooked on an issue of this scale, what did that mean for other decisions affecting our village? In response, a group of residents came together to take action.

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That effort led to the formation of PAVE—and the filing of an Article 78 lawsuit challenging the Village’s process, with the goal of ensuring transparency, accountability, and respect for public input.

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Who We Are
 

PAVE (People Advocating for Village Excellence) is a community-led movement founded by individuals who believe Nyack can—and should—be better than its current state.
 

As concerns around public safety, neglected spaces, empty storefronts, and unresponsive leadership have grown, many in our community have felt unheard. PAVE was created to change that—holding leadership accountable and ensuring that every voice has a real and lasting impact on the future of our village.

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PAVE is committed to building a safer, cleaner, economically stronger, and more vibrant village by engaging everyone who makes this community what it is—residents, business owners, workers, and visitors alike.

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