Colgate University outlines plan for new downtown building

HAMILTON, N.Y. — New apartments, a restaurant, and retail and office space are planned for a new four-story, mixed-use building, designed by Maurice Walters, whichwill replace the existing structure at 18-22 Utica St. in the village of Hamilton.

The Hamilton Initiative owns the building, and Colgate University will entirely fund the project, according to a press release from Colgate. It’s part of the university’s “Third Century Plan” commitment to increase housing options for faculty, staff, and local residents. Utilizing the existing 128-year-old Parry’s Building wasn’t an option after engineers determined it needed major structural and infrastructure repairs.

“This is another step toward taking care of our local housing shortage,” Joanne Borfitz, Colgate associate VP for community affairs and auxiliary services, said in the releaseregarding the new construction. “This will also add such vitality to the village core.”

Demolition of the existing structure will begin this month, followed by an expected 21-month construction period.

The new building, which will include a brick façade and design elements to match and enhance the village’s downtown character, will include 41 apartments, one restaurant, two retail locations, 3,471 square feet of office space facing Madison Street, the Partnership for Community Development’s co-working space, and the HUB.

The apartments, while not available to students, are designated for Colgate faculty, staff, and people seeking to live full-time in the community, the university’s release stated. Most will have outdoor areas with small balconies or patios. The fourth floor will include a shared amenity room for residents and a rooftop patio. On the Madison Street side, residents will have 37 parking spaces, about half covered from the elements. The Hamilton Initiative will staff the building with a full-time manager.