Decision Day Looms for Binghamton Plaza Leather Repair Shop

Time is running out for the operators of a 54-year-old business on Binghamton's North Side.

Timothy and Philomena Harris have a loyal customer base for their Leather Corner Shoe Repair shop in the Binghamton Plaza.

Watch the WNBF News video at the end of this article.

They are continuing to weigh their options as the city of Binghamton prepares to take control of the property from Galesi Realty Corporation of New Jersey. Galesi lost its legal fight in eminent domain proceedings.

The Harrises have been considering the possibility of relocating their business. A spot in the city's First Ward has been mentioned as an option.

But the prospect of moving their operation even a short distance from the Binghamton Plaza is daunting.

Tim Harris on Wednesday conceded "there isn't too much more of a future for this business" given recent trends. He noted the cost of materials has been rising drastically in recent months.

Harris told WNBF News he's considering doing some subcontracting work for other places with a scaled-down operation at his Binghamton home.

Harris has heard from plenty of customers over the last few weeks. He said "they want me to stay but I don't know how."

The city of Binghamton has indicated the shop will be able to remain in its current spot for two more months.

Philomena Harris acknowledged the situation "is almost surreal at this point."

WNBF NEWS VIDEO: Tim and Philomena Harris discussed the future of their Binghamton store on February 18, 2026.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or call (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.