New Use Envisioned for Former Binghamton Shoe Store

There's new activity in a building that had housed a Binghamton shoe store for more than a half-century.

Businessman Liam Burns has a vision for the former Walter's Shoe Store property at the corner of Main and Front streets.

The building at the busy intersection has been quiet since the shoe retailer closed its doors in 2003. Burns acquired the property five years ago.

Renovation work has just started at the building. Burns says he's been considering a few ideas for the place.

One concept involves the creation of a roof-top bar and an outdoor patio seating area. The renovations now planned call for installation of big windows on the Front Street side of the building.

Burns wants to transform the entire intersection which has languished as much of the downtown district has been revitalized over the last decade.

Before moving forward on the project at the former shoe store, Burns says he first intends to focus on opening a barbecue and chop house restaurant at a nearby building. That establishment is to be developed at 4 Main Street, a recently-remodeled structure next to the Chenango River.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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