Downtown Binghamton Building Plan Gains Support

A Binghamton developer has outlined his proposal to build a mid-rise building at a city-owned downtown site.

Mark Yonaty of Greater Binghamton Development answered questions during a city council committee meeting on his plan for the property at the southeast corner of Court and State streets.

Yonaty says he viewed it as a "pretty positive meeting." His plan call for the construction of a four- or five-story building that would feature residential units on the upper floors. Commercial spaces would fill the ground level.

Greater Binghamton Development has proposed paying $75,000 for the property.

The city received two other proposals for the site. Eckberg LLC of New Jersey submitted a $50,000 bid with a plan for a twelve-story tower which would have included commercial and retail space, along with what were described as "high-end lofts." Marchuska Productions LLC of the town of Union made a one-dollar offer for the property. That proposal called for construction of a three-story building with commercial and office space.

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, Mayor Richard David said the proposal for the tower had been withdrawn because of parking concerns.

David said he supports the plan for a five-story structure. He said he supports including residential space in a project for the site.

City councilman Chris Papastrat, who has been evaluating proposals for the property, said he's "very excited" about Yonaty's plan.

City council Wednesday night is expected to authorize an application for up to $500,000 in state funding that could be used for a project at the downtown site.