Mayor Hopes to Salvage Washington Street Project

Binghamton Mayor Richard David says he wants a controversial downtown project to move forward.

Last fall, David announced plans to redevelop a section of the Washington Street mall north of Court Street.

The $336,000 project included eleven parking spaces, along with sidewalk and lighting improvements. But work has stalled because city council has not given its authorization.

The mayor acknowledges there's been some opposition to the changes. Speaking about the project on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, David said he believes there is support for the planned work.

The mayor said the changes are "something that's needed for downtown." He said the goal is to create an "environment that's more attractive for residents and business owners."

Controversy erupted as the initial phase of the project began with the chairman of the Binghamton Commission on Architecture and Urban Design demanding a stop to work on the site.

The chairman and five commission members contended the work was started in violation of city law.

Trees, benches and planters were removed from the project area near the south entrance to the MetroCenter in November. The mayor had expected new parking spaces to be available before winter but that did not occur.