Syracuse Common Council approves mixed-use project at former Syracuse Developmental Center

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — The Syracuse Common Council has voted to approve a mixed-use project at the former Syracuse Developmental Center site.

In a statement issued following the Monday vote, Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh said the city “took a major step toward creating good jobs and quality housing” at the property on the city’s west side.

“I thank the Common Council for its due diligence and unanimous approval of the agreement to design and create a mixed income housing and technology manufacturing development on the long vacant property,” Walsh said. “I am grateful for the strong support of Governor Hochul for our vision for the property and the commitment of New York State for funding to prepare the site. We will continue to engage the community as we take the next steps toward a productive and positive future for the site.”

The City of Syracuse will use millions in state funding to help redevelop the former Syracuse Developmental Center as a regional job hub and mixed-income housing site.

Gov. Kathy Hochul on June 21 announced up to $29 million for pre-development site-preparation work, which will include demolition and remediation of the existing structures on the site.

The funding will also target infrastructure investments to expand water and sewer service lines, roads and sidewalks, tree planting, canopy and lighting throughout the site, Hochul’s office said.

City officials in 2019 seized the vacant site at 800-2 S. Wilbur Avenue after several years of tax delinquency, Hochul’s office said.