Binghamton Parking Project Sparks Controversy

Several members of a city commission are calling for an immediate halt to work on a project to add nearly a dozen parking spaces in downtown Binghamton.

Jeffrey Smith, the chairman of the Commission on Architecture and Urban Design, sent a letter to Mayor Richard David contending the work on Washington Street near the MetroCenter violates city law.

The letter, signed by Smith and five other commission members, is dated November 1. The writers "respectfully demand" a stop to work on the site.

Construction crews last week tore out several trees and removed benches that had been installed years ago when the pedestrian mall was created.

While workers were busy at the site in recent days, there was no activity observed this afternoon.

In announcing the $336,000 project, the mayor said it would include the creation of additional parking, along with enhanced lighting and sidewalk improvements.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program this morning, David acknowledged the "demand" of some commission members that the work be halted.

The mayor was blunt in his response: "Just to be clear, that's not gonna happen."

David said: "Make whatever demands you want and see how it works out for you."

The mayor said he doesn't agree with the position the commission members expressed in their letter to him. He said, "I don't feel it's based on what's in the best interest of the city."

David said he believes some members of the commission "don't understand the role and responsibility and authority they have." He said some "are just fighting for the status quo."