Construction Starts at Former Lincoln Hotel Site

Construction crews have begun site preparation work for a planned multiple-use building in Binghamton's First Ward.

A three-story structure is to be constructed on the Clinton Street property where the historic Lincoln Hotel had stood for decades.

The vacant structure was demolished after it was heavily damaged by an arson fire in June 2013.

First Ward Action Council executive director Jerry Willard said the organization had hoped to rehabilitate the empty building prior to the blaze.

Following the fire, Willard said the agency remained interested in coming up with a use for the site. He said "we like to think of it as the new Lincoln Hotel."

Work on the property had been expected to begin in March but it was delayed because of poor weather conditions.

The new building is to feature two storefronts on the street level and ten apartments on the two upper floors.

State funding will cover the cost of some of the project.

Mayor Richard David today said city officials have been working with the First Ward Action Council in the planning process for the building. He said the project should provide some benefits to that section of Clinton Street.