SYRACUSE — A new group calling itself Save81.org is opposed to any plan that would divert Interstate 81 (I-81) away from the Syracuse metro area, including a “boulevard” option that would re-route I-81 to the east of the downtown area.
Save81.org describes itself as an “advocacy group” of business owners, concerned citizens, elected officials, unions, and community groups, according to its news release.
The group is aimed at “preserving and enhancing” I-81’s current interstate-highway designation and alignment through Central New York, the news release said.
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Save81.org today held its initial news conference at the new Courtyard and Residence Inn in Armory Square.
The New York State Department of Transportation is in the process of deciding the highway’s future in the Syracuse area.
Syracuse is known as a “20-minute city,” meaning residents and visitors can reach their destination in 20 minutes or less, T-John Goodman, owner of Sweet on Chocolate, at 208 Walton St., said during his remarks.
“For my business, it means customers can easily get to my store and to other stores located in Syracuse and Armory Square,” he said.
Goodman believes the convenience is due “in large part” to I-81’s direct path through the city.
“I believe that the boulevard plan would alter 81’s current path and would be a detriment to small businesses in Syracuse and that’s why I support this mission,” he added.
Jim Bright, owner of Dunk & Bright Furniture Co., Inc., which is located “just 500 feet off of Route 81 at exit 17,” is among the group’s founding members.
The company’s showroom location, at 2648 S. Salina St. in Syracuse, helps it draw customers from around New York state and from Canada, Bright said.
The Save81.org group’s news release lists 45 founding members of the advocacy group. Its website includes details about the issue, the highway’s history, and a tab labeled, “What’s At Stake.”
Contact Reinhardt at ereinhardt@cnybj.com
