State breaks ground on $9.5 million resiliency project in Oswego

OSWEGO, N.Y. — Construction is underway in Oswego at International Pier on a $9.5 million resiliency project funded through the Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s Resiliency and Economic Development Initiative (REDI).

The project will protect the deteriorating pier and convert the historic structure into a pedestrian-friendly open space that is connected to the city’s walking trail system, Cuomo’s office announced.

“This project to restore the International Pier in Oswego, along with many others spurred by this initiative, takes a forward-looking approach toward revitalization by strengthening a critical piece of infrastructure to help ensure it can withstand future severe weather events and flooding, while also creating an exciting summer destination to help revitalize the local tourism industry,” Cuomo said in a release.

The International Pier’s new layout will utilize space to better serve recreational boaters and “draw residents to the waterfront with fresh opportunities to enjoy the area,” Cuomo’s office contends.

Ultimately, the project will build upon the $3.1 million REDI project underway at Wrights Landing Marina, which seeks to boost recreational opportunities while providing an attractive open space.

The project at International Pier was necessary due to damage the structure incurred from increased water levels and storm-driven wave action on Lake Ontario, according to the governor’s office.

Resiliency and revitalization measures to be implemented at the pier include installation of new water, sanitary sewer, stormwater collection, as well as new electrical services. The initiative will also include the addition of a gateway arch and additional visitor parking, improvement of the landscape, relocation and replacement of boat slips, and installation of shoreline stabilization to protect the pier bulkhead and sidewalls, per Cuomo’s office.