Binghamton aims to redevelop Collier Street parking lot

Developer proposals due in early October        

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — Those interested in buying and redeveloping the property at 69 Collier St. in downtown Binghamton have until early October to submit a plan to the City of Binghamton. It’s the site of the former Collier Street parking ramp now operating as a surface-parking lot, the office of Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham said in a May 10 announcement. The city has issued a formal request for proposals (RFP) for redevelopment of the downtown site. Responses are due to Binghamton by 10:30 a.m. on Oct. 2. The 0.8-acre parcel on the corner of Collier and State streets has served as a parking lot since 2016, when the city demolished the five-story parking ramp that had opened there in the 1960s. The Collier Street ramp had been permanently closed due to structural concerns prior to its demolition, Kraham’s office said. “Imagine the potential to transform a key property in downtown Binghamton with a project that better serves residents and supports our nearby small businesses,” Kraham said. “We’re seeking creative ideas to get this property back on the tax rolls, create jobs, activate the streetscape and build on the momentum downtown Binghamton has seen in recent years.” Through the RFP, the city is seeking proposals including — but not limited to — the development of a mixed-use building that responds to housing and commercial demands; provides streetscape improvements and supports a walkable downtown business district; maximizes new jobs and economic impact; and incorporates 21st century, sustainable building practices and smart growth principles, per Kraham’s office. The office went on to say that “preferred proposals” will display a proven ability to provide “creative and inclusive” land use and development strategies, increase Binghamton’s tax base by returning the site to the tax rolls, and create permanent job opportunities for Binghamton residents. A full copy of the RFP can be found on the city’s website (www.binghamton-ny.gov/Home/Components/RFP/RFP/266/90).