Historic Building Near Binghamton High School to Be Renovated

A multi-million-dollar plan has been developed to restore a large abandoned apartment house across the street from Binghamton High School.

Metro Interfaith acquired the four-story building at 109 Oak Street last June. The property had been purchased by a developer about three years ago but he chose not to move forward with his plans to convert the place into market-rate apartments.

Conant Smith, Metro Interfaith president, said his organization will work to turn the structure into family housing.

The new plan is ambitious and will require state funding to become a reality. The agency also expects to seek historic tax credits.

Smith said the project would include the removal of an existing stairwell and the installation of an elevator. The front porch - which is badly deteriorated - also must be removed.

The goal is to provide much-needed safe and affordable housing.

Smith said it's a "wonderful building" and he believes transforming what has been an eyesore is "really a compelling project."

The final cost of the work remains to be determined but smith expects it's likely to be between $3 million and $5 million.

The timeline for the project will depend on lining up the necessary funding. Smith said an application for a grant could be submitted to the state next spring.

In the meantime, Smith said Metro Interfaith plans to take some initial steps to stabilize and clean up the property.

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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.