Tables, Benches Removed From Binghamton Trouble-Spot

Binghamton public works employees have taken out tables, benches and garbage cans from a city-owned green space in the heart of the downtown business district.

Workers began removing the bolted-down items on the vacant lot on the southeast corner of Court and State streets around 9 a.m. Wednesday.

A few men who had become fond of using the tables and benches yelled at the public works employees as they started to work. A police officer monitored the situation to prevent any problems.

The grassy park-like parcel in recent months had been the source of repeated complaints from some people who work and shop downtown.

Police were frequently called to deal with a range of problems including aggressive panhandling, public consumption of alcohol and drug overdoses.

In one incident, ambulances transported three men to Binghamton General Hospital after they were discovered unconscious at a table on the site on the afternoon of August 21.

Authorities said the three apparently had overdosed on synthetic marijuana as volunteers worked nearby on preparations for the Chris Thater Memorial Races.

Workers at a business frequently complained they witnessed public urination by men at the site.

Mayor Richard David had said police patrols were giving increased attention to the property because of the ongoing problems.

David on Wednesday afternoon said the directive to remove the tables and benches was issued in preparation for the sale of the parcel.

Developer Mark Yonaty is planning to acquire the property from the city to construct a five- to seven-story mixed-use building.

Yonaty on Wednesday afternoon said he expects to close on the parcel "in a few weeks." He said groundbreaking for the project could occur next spring.