Binghamton Mayor announces plans for Washington Street Mall

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — Binghamton Mayor Richard C. David has announced redevelopment plans for the city’s Washington Street Mall, including new parking spaces and improved infrastructure elements.

“For years, this space has sat empty as a concrete desert in the heart of downtown,” David said in a news release. “As we’re seeing new revitalization, it’s important to create an inviting and appealing streetscape and provide additional parking, leading to new activity and economic development.”

The city-owned parcel will be transformed into 11 parking spaces with sidewalk improvements, enhanced lighting, and additional beautification efforts consistent with the Court St. Gateway Project, the release stated.

This week, Phase I of the project will begin, which includes removal of existing aboveground features and construction of an entrance and exit. Temporary parking will be added to accommodate customers of downtown businesses during the holiday and winter seasons. Weather permitting, Phase I will be complete by the end of November, the city says.

Phase II will begin next spring, and will include new curbs, brick pavers, lighting reconfigurations, and sustainable landscape architecture.

R. DeVincentis Construction of Binghamton provided a low bid of $336,000 for both phases of redevelopment, according to the release. The project will be funded through Binghamton’s capital bonding, the city says.

Since 1989, the Washington Street Mall was home to Binghamton’s “Walk of Fame,” 43 bronze stars showcasing famous residents who have contributed to arts and culture. In July, the City of Binghamton and Broome County coordinated moving the stars to their new permanent home at the Forum Theatre to make them more visible and better preserve their condition, the release stated.

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