Users Question Safety of Binghamton Parking Garage

Some people who work in downtown Binghamton are expressing concern about the structural safety of the city-owned garage where they park their vehicles.

Nearly 40 percent of the spaces in the Collier Street garage are unavailable as emergency repair work is done in the upper levels of the structure.

While the top portion of the garage is closed as the concrete and steel repairs are being made, many spaces throughout the facility are blocked off because of safety concerns.

A few drivers who left their cars in the garage today indicated they were somewhat worried about the crumbling structure.

One vehicle owner used a cover to protect a car from falling concrete.

Small pieces of concrete which appeared to have fallen from the ceiling on the first level of the garage littered a driving lane to an exit. The debris was swept away a short time later.

City Hall spokesman Jared Kraham said employees at the Collier Street garage are closely monitoring conditions in the facility. He said they inspect the structure about every ten minutes in an effort to observe any potential problems.

Kraham said additional parking spaces are taken out of service when conditions warrant.

Several workers were busy today removing damaged concrete sections on the top floor of the garage. Steel beam rehabilitation and waterproofing also are part of the current efforts to keep the facility operational.

Engineering consultants have advised city officials the garage is nearing the end of its useful life.

Repairs at the Collier Street garage are scheduled to continue through late summer. Work also is planned at the Water Street and State Street parking facilities.