Binghamton starts demolishing Magic City Ice building

BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — The City of Binghamton has started demolition on the former Magic City Ice building at 310 Front St.

The office of Mayor Richard David announced the work in a news release today. David first revealed the demolition plans during his 2015 State of the City address.

“This dilapidated eyesore will no longer greet residents and visitors as they enter the City,” David said in the release. “As we invest millions in the Front Street Gateway Project, demolishing this building will provide a fresh start for the First Ward. These two projects will radically change first impressions of Binghamton.”

The firm All Around Excavating of Johnson City is handling the demolition work, David’s office said.

Federal community-development block grant funds of more than $37,000 will pay for the project.

The City is tearing down the structure before work begins on the Front Street Gateway Project, a $5 million plan for “full street” reconstruction, new curbs, sidewalks, period lighting, and water and sewer upgrades from Prospect Street to Winding Way.

Construction will begin this fall on that multi-year project, according to David’s office.

Binghamton will incorporate the parcel in its overall redesign of the Front Street Gateway, with plans for improved landscaping and signage, it added.

The building, originally constructed in 1924, operated as Magic City Ice and Cutler Ice Company.

Broome County in November 2012 acquired the property for delinquent taxes, according to David’s office.

The City of Binghamton in April 2013 purchased it from Broome County for $1, it added.

Contact Reinhardt at ereinhardt@cnybj.com

PHOTO CREDIT: City of Binghamton