Message from the Downtown Committee of S Present-Day
This year holds special meaning for the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc., as 2015 marks our 40th Anniversary! In 1975, our community had the foresight to create a mechanism to ensure consistent and dedicated attention would be placed on downtown. The Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc. was the result of this foresight, and became the first organization of its kind in New York State. As the stewards of the special assessment district, we’re honored to work in partnership with you to create a vibrant Downtown Syracuse. A Forward Thinking Community Our community has a vision for what we want our future to be, and a track record for making it happen. Think about Armory Square. Forty years ago, this warehouse district was known for food processing. It was the vision of Bob Doucette and George Curry, two urban pioneers, that kick-started the neighborhood Armory Square has become today. Soon, others including Bill MacDowell, Tom Cunningham, and Karyn Korteling saw the potential and established a presence. Today, this warehouse district features the finest dining and retail around. Hanover Square was once the red light district in downtown. Iconic structures, such as the Gridley Building, were slated for demolition. Forty years ago, conversations started around the preservation potential of this neighborhood. Hanover Square became the first National Register Historic District in Syracuse, paving the way for future development. Many of the individuals that fostered these projects remain influential threads of the fabric that make Downtown thrive. Today, more than $340 million in development activity is underway! Progress is palpable. Every day, there’s a new headline for the $60 million renovation of the historic Hotel Syracuse. It’s because of the vision and personal commitment of developer Ed Reilly and the support of many community partners, that we can now say we have a dedicated Downtown convention center hotel! This level of investment is the direct result of visionaries in our community, committed to progress. We’re building a city for our next generation. Together, we’re creating a downtown of the future - a downtown where people choose to be. Residential Development Perhaps the most visible change is the number of new residents that call downtown home. In the last ten years, our residential population has increased 43%! This past year, 153 new residential units came online. There are more than 300 units either planned or under construction, expected to come online within the next two years. This would add 540 new residents to downtown’s population.
Downtown Retail 18 new retail businesses have opened this past year, a sign of commitment and belief in downtown’s strength. Syracuse has a track record of fostering entrepreneurs who make investments that improve our community. Take Darren Chavis, who recently opened Creole Soul Cafe. Born and raised in Syracuse, he’s taken his passion and established a downtown presence on Jefferson Street. Restaurants like Modern Malt, Funk n’ Waffles, Peppino’s and The York demonstrate creativity through new takes on traditional food. Then, there are Café Kubal and Byblos Bar & Grill, whose owners demonstrated their belief in downtown’s strength by opening second locations this year. Downtown staple, Clark’s Ale House, renewed its downtown presence. Meanwhile, the community institution, Liehs & Steigerwald, is expected to open a downtown location soon. Finally, Kevin and Nicole Samolis, two self-starters, saw a gap in the marketplace and created Sky Armory. Fondly remembered as the former Wells & Coverly department store, today Sky Armory creates new memories with a highly personalized approach to events. South Warren Street Renaissance On South Warren Street, a renaissance is underway. Historically the financial district of downtown, changes in this sector led to a shrinking commercial footprint. Through the organic growth of tech-oriented companies, vacancies have been filled. This district has reinvented itself as an innovator: • The Tech Garden anchors the southern end with cutting edge technology companies such as Lake Effect Applications, Spincar.com and Euphony, Inc. • South Warren Street is also home to Ephesus Technologies, headquartered on the ground floor of Onondaga Tower. Not only did this homegrown company light the 2015 Super Bowl, it’s slated to provide the LED technology to light the 2018 Superbowl as well! • TCGPlayer.com, led by Chedy Hampson, has sought out vibrant surroundings for its employees. Rapid growth is projected as the gaming operation expands in the historic State Tower Building. • SUNY Upstate Medical University’s announcement that it will bring more than 400 employees into the Galleries only fuels this fire. As the diversity of our business mix continues to grow, it weaves a dynamic downtown fabric.
Syracuse, Inc.
Arts & Culture Downtown is the stage on which we celebrate our community. Every year, more than 2.5 million visitors come downtown for our festivals and events. It’s estimated another 1.3 million attend performances at the Oncenter and Landmark Theatre. Happening at other cultural institutions: • The Erie Canal Museum is nearing completion on its $1 million renovation bringing canal history to life through interactive displays. • The Everson Museum is re-establishing its presence as a downtown destination through new family programming and Community Day activities. • The MOST continues to delight families through new exhibits and investments in lighting and exterior façade work. • And, at the OHA, crowd-pleasing exhibits such as Salt City Rock: The History of Rock and Roll in Syracuse, has brought a 12% increase in membership, and almost a 20% increase in visitors last year.
Mid-1980s
Public Space The Connective Corridor streetscape project is one of the largest street reconstruction projects of the last few decades, blending arts and infrastructure. When the project is complete this season, it will solidify Syracuse’s status as an innovator and improve mobility for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. In the Heart of Downtown, Mayor Miner has prioritized the redesign of the former Common Center bus hub into a new urban space. !Melk, a New York City based design team, has been selected to work closely with our community to realize the potential of this new urban space. Security Partnerships Through a multi-pronged approach, we’re focused on creating welcoming public spaces. Our partnership with the Syracuse Police Department ensures dedicated attention to the district. We’re incredibly fortunate to work with some of the most proactive officers in the City to maintain downtown’s status as one of the safest neighborhoods. Thanks to the incredible support from Assemblyman Magnarelli, the Downtown Committee installed 10 security cameras this
summer, providing an additional tool to protect the more than $340 investments underway. New this year, we’ve collaborated with social service providers to create a Downtown Task Force. This pilot program changes the way outreach services are provided to those living with mental illness, homelessness or substance abuse issues. Still in its infancy, the goal is to build relationships with a traditionally hard-to-reach population and get them the services they need. The Future of Interstate 81 No bigger opportunity exists for downtown’s continued revitalization than the opportunities presented with a re-imagined Interstate 81. This is our moment to write Syracuse’s next chapter. The needs of our community have changed dramatically since the viaduct was built. We live in a generation that craves walkability and authenticity. We need a solution that’s going to attract our next generation of leaders, and make Syracuse stand out as a progressive city. This decision is too important to sit on the sidelines. Lend your voice. We cannot allow the work of the last 40 years to be undermined by a highway that divides our community. Looking Forward Downtown has incredible potential, but there’s still more to do. As we reflect on the last 40 years of the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, there are two things the Downtown from 1975 and the Downtown of today share: a strong sense of community and a vision for transformative projects. We have an incredibly rich fabric to celebrate in Downtown Syracuse, and at the heart of it all, are the people who make up this thriving community. Together we embrace change, together we look forward, and together we’ve positioned our urban core for a better, stronger future. Let today be more than a celebration of the last 40 years. Let today be the day we make a decision, together, to have an even brighter future. We’d like to thank you all for your continued dedication to Downtown Syracuse. Through our collective partnerships, let’s keep making good things happen. With much excitement,
James V. Breuer, Chair
Merike L. Treier, Executive Director
Marketing & Communications The Downtown Committee’s Marketing and Communications program promotes the positive changes happening throughout Downtown Syracuse, as well as the retail, restaurant and cultural offerings that make Downtown Syracuse a vibrant destination. The Downtown Committee ensures information about the district is easily accessible. The events organized and promoted by the Downtown Committee support its mission of revitalization, and further highlight Downtown Syracuse as the center of our community. Downtown Farmers’ Market Plants Vibrancy
Every Tuesday, from June through October, 50 of the region’s best farmers and produce dealers set up shop in Clinton Square. The Downtown Farmers’ Market offers a convenient, open-air alternative to shop for locally-grown, fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and flowers, wine and baked goods. New for the 2015 season, the Downtown Committee is partnering with the Onondaga County Public Library and the Woman Infant Children (WIC) program to promote wellness and healthy lifestyle initiatives.
Holiday Trail & Decorations
Downtown is the place for holiday shopping and festivities, where family traditions are established. This past season, the Downtown Committee invited the community to experience the magic of the holidays with the Downtown Holiday Trail. The Downtown Committee also executed a new decorations contract with Able Events and added vibrant new holiday lighting to dress Armory Square Park.
360-Degree Virtual Tour
1980s Arts & Crafts Festival
2013
2015
News & Events Blasts
The Downtown Committee keeps the community “in the know,” generating excitement and pride through weekly news and events updates to newsletter subscribers. Until technology caught up with us to allow for digital material, the Downtown Committee printed quarterly newsletters and bi-monthly calendars as seen below.
The 44th Annual AmeriCU Arts & Crafts Festival, held July 25 through July 27, was a spectacular three-day showcase of the country’s most talented artists, craftspeople and entertainers. The festival, which moved from Salina Street to historic Columbus Circle in 1978, now features 160 artists representing 25 states and Canada. In addition to a diverse selection of fine arts and contemporary crafts, the festival features interactive strolling entertainers and refreshment favorites. The festival draws more than 50,000 visitors each year, and is hailed as one of the premier festivals of its kind in the northeast.
1977
Above: Arts & Crafts Festival takes centerstage on Salina Street
Restaurants Dish Out Deals
Television Advertising
The Downtown Committee continued its “Great Stories Begin Downtown” campaign through two television spots produced by Solon Quinn Studios, which air throughout the summer and fall. The advertisements highlight Downtown as the heart of our community and the feeling of camaraderie expressed by the 30,000+ people who live and work in the city center.
A record 27 restaurants, including six new restaurants, participated in Renzi Downtown Dining Weeks. The official promotion ran from February 16 through March 1, but the event was so successful, 17 restaurants opted to extend their Dining Weeks menus for another week.
3
Co 27 u R #D rse est s a in in • $ ura Presented gW 2 by nt ee 5 o s kS r l YR ess Delivering the Difference Delivering Difference To Our the Customers, Our Employees, Our Community. To Our Customers, Our Employees, Our Community.
360-Degree Virtual Tour Grants Panoramic, Interior Access
The Downtown Committee partnered with Google Maps business view photographers to become the first downtown association in the state to launch a 360-Degree Virtual Tour, bringing Google’s “Street View” technology off the streets and inside downtown businesses. Users are granted interior access to shops, restaurants, museums, services and accommodations. Dozens of downtown businesses signed up to offer this unique viewpoint on their websites. Virtual access to participating establishments is also available on the Downtown Committee’s website.
February 16 - March 1, 2015
Beverages, tax & gratuity are additional.
317 at Montgomery Ale ‘N Angus Pub Bamboo House Bistro Éléphant Steakhouse Bittersweet Wine Bar & Desserts Black Olive Mediterranean Taverna Bull & Bear Pub Byblos Bar & Grill Byblos Mediterranean Cafe Dinosaur Bar-B-Que Empire Brewing Company Funk ‘n Waffles Indian Tandoor Accents of Armory Square (above) and Pastabilities (below) Kitty Hoynes Irish Pub Lemon Grass both signed up to offer interior access. LoFo Maxwell’s The Mission Modern Malt Namu Otro Cinco Pastabilities Prime Steakhouse Sakana-Ya Sushi Bar Small Plates Syracuse Suds Factory Tang Flavor
#CelebrateDowntownSYR
Some restaurants require reservations.
317 Montgomery St. 214-4267 In January, the Downtown Committee 238 Harrison St. 426-9672 launched anSt.Instagram account to 252 W. Genesee 424-8800 238 W. Jefferson St. 475-1111 accompany existing Facebook and Twitter 127 W. Fayette St. 474-9463 pages. As part of its 40th Anniversary 250 S. Clinton St. 399-5599 125 E. Water St. 701-3064 Celebration, the Downtown Committee will 316 S. Clinton St. 299-6512 continue 223 N. Clintonto St.spotlight 478-3333 the people, places, 246 W. Willow St.and 476-4937 businesses residents who make 120 Walton St. 475-2337 Downtown 307 S. Clinton St.Syracuse 474-1060 stand out as a 232 Harrison St. throughout 565-4099 destination the year. Please 301 W. Fayette St. 424-1974 join conversation 238 W.the Jefferson St. 475-1111 as the Downtown 214 Walton St. 422-6200 Committee and Downtown Syracuse 122 E. Genesee St. 299-6633 continues toSt. grow in exciting new ways. 304 E. Onondaga 475-7344 325 S. Clinton St. 471-6258 215 Walton St. 475-0220 206 S. Warren St. 422-6876 311 S. Franklin St. 474-1153 101 E. Water St. 299-8047 215 Walton St. 475-0117 116 Walton St. 373-0031 320 S. Clinton St. 471-2253 413 S. Warren St. 472-0279
www.DowntownSyracuse.com/DiningWeek Neighborhood Support
The Downtown Committee Mid-1980s provides organizational assistance to the Cathedral Square Neighborhood Association and the Armory Square Association. It also provides financial support for some downtown events, including the Armory Square Association’s signature summertime event, the Candlelight Series. The series, Above: Candlelight Series in Armory Square which stages major concerts each year, celebrated 30 seasons in 2014. Started by the Downtown Committee in 1984, the series (still free to attend today!) continues to promote the character and charm of historic Armory Square. WITH CENTRAL NEW YORK
Spotlight on Syracuse Style
The Downtown Committeee was recognized by the International Downtown Association for its role in the annual presentation of Syracuse Style. In September, Walton Street was transformed into an 80-foot-long runway when the Downtown Committee partnered with local fashion designer, Lisa Butler, to organize the event. Fashions from dozens of downtown retailers were featured.
Economic Development The incredible amount of development taking place in Downtown Syracuse continues to draw new residents, office and retail tenants. During the 2014-2015 fiscal year, 18 new retail businesses opened in Downtown Syracuse. At least four more are expected by the end of the summer. Currently, more than $340 million is being invested in downtown development. The Downtown Committee’s economic development team works to recruit new companies and businesses to the city center, and retain existing tenants to ensure continued vibrancy. The Downtown Committee collects market information and provides assistance to developers and property owners interested in redeveloping underutilized properties. Downtown Retail: Then and Now
Funk ‘n Waffles, which now occupies the same space on the block, opened in December, 2014. One of 18 new businesses to open in Downtown Syracuse this fiscal year, the spot is a happening place to listen to live music today.
Spring, 2015
Late 1980s Happy Endings, a popular cake and coffee bar, was the place to go for coffee, desserts, and live musical entertainment in the late 1980s and 1990s. The Armory Square hot spot on South Clinton Street played host to several national recording acts, including the popular rock group, Barenaked Ladies.
Community Renewal: NY Main Street Grant Distribution
Above: “Full of Opportunity” storefront sign, seen around Downtown in the Mid-1980s
The New York State Department of Housing and Community Renewal awarded a $200,000 NY Main Street grant to the Downtown Committee to assist with residential and commercial mixed-use property improvements along Jefferson and South Warren Streets. As part of that program, the Downtown Committee awarded Onondaga Tower funding for special exterior lighting at 125 East Jefferson Street in the fall of 2014. Common Space received funding to develop Syracuse CoWorks, at 201 East Jefferson Street (pictured to the left). It will also receive funding for living spaces. The Downtown Committee has awarded funds to the MOST for facade improvements, the former Onondaga Music Building at 214 West Jefferson Street (pictured above) to create new residential units, and to the former WFBL building on South Warren Street for facade improvements.
Report Cards for Downtown
The Downtown Committee produces quarterly reports detailing Downtown Syracuse’s office and retail market trends. The reports are valuable resources for prospective tenants, property owners and developers, showing the most up-to-date and accurate information around.
Showcasing Urban Living
More than 2,100 people attended the Ninth Annual Downtown Living Tour on Saturday, May 16 to explore eight residential tour stops highlighting the projects transforming Downtown Syracuse. The self-guided walking tour offered an inside look at downtown’s newest apartments, historic renovations and luxury condos. For the third year, the event was headquartered at VIP Structures’ Pike Block. More than 80 people volunteered their time to help show off our center city, and keep the event running smoothly. New partnerships included premium guided tours offered by NOexcuses Tours, Inc. and an Information Booth staffed by members of Believe in Syracuse. Also new in 2015, a quartet from Symphoria played music for guests in the lobby of Dey’s Plaza, the Official Tour Rest Stop, and the Creekwalk Commons Cafe Kubal timed its Grand Opening Celebration to coincide with the Tour.
2015
1986
The inside of an apartment at the Pike Block, located at the corner of West Fayette and South Salina Streets, Present-Day
The inside of an apartment at the Hogan Block, located at the corner of West Fayette and South Franklin Streets, 1986
High Demand for Housing
Downtown Syracuse is one of the two fastest growing neighborhoods in Onondaga County. The occupancy rate is currently at 99 percent. The Downtown Committee partnered with the Community Preservation Corporation to commission a housing market analysis to project future trends:
F O R
How to Generate More Revenue ler Spoi rt! Ale
The Answer is Develop Downtown
$34.9M per acre
$198K
One Lincoln Center
per acre
Walmart, Camillus NY
• The analysis found downtown’s housing market
could accommodate up to 727 additional units per year for the next three years.
.48 acres
59.5 acres
1
497,920
2
ACRES
1
• Occupancy would remain at 99 percent.
Stack Uses
Onondaga County There’s only so much land in Onondaga County. Being able to measure impacts of land use decisions means we’re better able to manage policies and how they affect our community.
The more efficiently we use our land, the more tax productivity we have on that land…generating more money for our community!
Source: US Census Bureau
1
$900K
TAX YIELD PER ACRE
68
$2.6M
TAX YIELD PER ACRE
.76
ACRE FOOTPRINT
SHOPPINGTOWN MALL
3
• There are 495 residential units either planned, or
under construction, projected to come online over the next two years.
ACRE FOOTPRINT
CENTER ARMORY
4 Density Increases Revenue Stacking uses allows for greater tax revenue to be generated on the same footprint of land, providing more returns to our community than single-story structures. More people can fit in this footprint, too – Downtown Syracuse is the employment hub of the region. More than 27,000 people work here.
Compare Apples to Apples It’s difficult to compare projects to projects. Simplify the math to better compare tax productivity impacts using a common factor, such as tax productivity per acre.
9.5%
7.6%
property tax
retail sales tax
Cheat Sheet: How to Generate More Revenue .13%
(Spoiler Alert: Develop Downtown!)
1.6%
land area
city’s footprint
5
6 Density Matters
Downtown utilizes 0.13% of the County’s land area, yet produces 7.6% of its retail sales taxes. Downtown shines! A dense downtown provides incredible financial returns for our community giving our region character with the unique businesses located here. That character draws residents and visitors.
Support the Core
We’ve got a tremendous asset in the density of modern and historic buildings in Downtown Syracuse. Downtown utilizes 1.6% of the City’s total land area and produces 9.5% of the property taxes…We’re a pretty significant revenue generator for our community!
Let’s Build Off Of Our Existing Assets To Generate Incredible Returns For Our Community
!
The Downtown Committee released this infographic to emphasize the importance of supporting investment downtown. The “Cheat Sheet” was created using data from Onondaga County and New York State. It demonstrates how dense, downtown development pays dividends for the entire community.
Environmental Maintenance Downtown Syracuse has never looked so vibrant. In efforts to ensure downtown is attractive, clean and accessible, the Downtown Committee’s Environmental Maintenance staff undertakes beautification programs to enhance ongoing revitalization throughout the central business district. Currently, there is more than $115 million invested in infrastructure improvements underway in Downtown Syracuse. Blooming Downtown
Mid-1980s
2015 Above: A cascading flower basket delights on Washington Street, Present-Day Left: Chuck McFadden (far left) helps install a flower basket in Hanover Square with assistance from Benny Kuppel (right) from the City of Syracuse Parks and Recreation Department, and Charles Johnson (center), a member of the Downtown Committee staff; Circa Mid-1980s
Every summer, beauty blossoms downtown. In total, 334 hanging flower baskets dress up downtown streets in Cathedral, Hanover, Clinton and Armory Square neighborhoods, as well as along Salina Street. This season marks five years since the popular program started. The Downtown Committee works with downtown businesses and property owners to maintain the baskets, creating a thriving downtown. Help the effort by sponsoring a flower basket (or several!) with a tax-deductible donation of $45/basket.
Special Recognition for Creating a Healthy Place
June, 2015
2005 Neither Rain, Nor Snow...
December, 2014 The Downtown Committee Maintenance Staff is at work year-round to ensure Downtown Syracuse is attractive, clean and accessible. From planting flowers, to mowing, litter patrol, plowing and so much more, our crew gets up with the sun to tackle a wide variety of tasks to make downtown clean and attractive. This winter was especially rough, but our crew kept up with the snowfall, assisting property owners in making sure pathways were clear for more than 27,000 downtown employees and 3,100 residents.
In March, the Downtown Committee Director of Operations Chuck McFadden was recognized by the Onondaga County Department of Health as part of its Creating Healthy Places initiative. As the Director of the Downtown Farmers’ Market, Chuck works with participating farmers to donate unsold produce to local food banks and emergency food sites for distribution to their patrons.
Equipment Through The Years
50/50 Program Continues
The Downtown Committee and the City of Syracuse participate in a cost-sharing agreement for streetscape maintenance items for the central business district. Over the last year, 17 new trees were planted and stumps were removed. The Downtown Committee also laid new bricks to improve the sidewalks in Armory Square as part of this program.
On the left, Big Red, our streetsweeper of yesteryear, was in service in the 1980s.
1984 To the right, the big yellow van was a familiar sight around Downtown Syracuse during the late 1970s.
1978
Lemp Park Beautification
Starting in May, the Downtown Committee was contracted for maintenance services at M. Lemp Park, a green space at the corner of Fayette and Warren Streets. The park, established in 2010, has emerged as a community symbol for redevelopment. Named for M. Lemp Jewelers across the street, the park is a tribute to the 125-year-old business, located downtown since 1890.
Earth Day Clean-Up
On Saturday, April 25, more than 180 volunteers donned green t-shirts and gloves to fill trash bags. Groups of families, friends and members of community organizations turned out to give Downtown Syracuse a spring cleaning, making sure the gateways to the center of the city were ready to welcome the spring season. The Downtown Committee partners with the City of Syracuse’s Clean Up ‘Cuse effort for the Earth Day Clean-Up event each year.
Partners in Planting
New this year, the Downtown Committee offered a program that combines employee engagement and downtown beautification. The Partners in Planting program bolsters downtown employees’ pride in their neighborhood by inviting downtown sponsor partners to participate in a beatification day, where employees plant flowers and shrubs in planters along Washington Street, in addition to participating in a downtown clean-up effort.
Security The Downtown Committee Security staff proactively addresses quality of life concerns to maintain downtown’s status as one of the safest neighborhoods to live, work, play and visit. The strong partnership between Downtown Security staff and the Syracuse Police Department allows for collaboration to address public safety and quality of life concerns within the central business district. Downtown Committee Security officers act as a liaison between the business community and the Syracuse Police Department. Security Camera Locations
Security Camera Installation
To maintain Downtown’s status as one of the safest neighborhoods in Syracuse - especially with the high level of financial investment in the city center - the Downtown Committee, in partnership with Assemblyman William Magnarelli, installed ten security cameras this summer. The cameras, installed in the areas with high population concentrations, are wired into the existing Syracuse Police Department camera network. The cameras are mounted on existing lampposts and traffic poles.
The yellow indicates where security cameras were installed.
Support for the cameras was provided in part by a $78,868 grant secured by Assemblyman William Magnarelli. The Downtown Committee owns the cameras and pays for maintenance to ensure their continued operation.
Survey Says... • • •
70% feel safe in downtown all or most of the time 59% felt cameras would enhance their or their visitors’ sense of safety 85% felt cameras were a viable tool to assist in downtown police efforts
423-HELP
Downtown residents, employees and visitors are encouraged to call 423-HELP for prompt response to quality of life concerns. The calls go directly to the Downtown Security & Information Center. If it’s after regular business hours, calls are forwarded directly to the Syracuse Police Department Officer on duty. In the 2014-2015 fiscal year, Downtown Security staff responded to 1,500 calls.
Downtown Security Center
423-HELP (4357)
In an emergency, call 911 www.downtownsyracuse.com
Downtown Security & Information Center
The Downtown Security & Information Center is centrally located in the Galleries at 440 South Warren Street. Here, visitors will find Downtown Committee Security officers and Syracuse Police officers assigned to the central business district, as well as information about Downtown Syracuse.
Partnership History
Early 1980s Syracuse Police Officers ride bicycles donated by the Downtown Committee, Circa Early 1980s
The relationship between the Downtown Committee Security staff and Syracuse Police Department dates back to the creation of the Downtown Committee Security Program in 1995. Today, Syracuse Police officers and Downtown Committee Security officers patrol downtown daily. Their offices are based in the Downtown Security and Information Center at 440 South Warren Street.
2015 The patches are a symbol of the partnership, today.
2015
2015 Patty Miller (right) is often the first friendly face you see at the Downtown Security & Information Center.
Personal Safety Seminars
Available to all downtown businesses and employees, Downtown Security officers cover basic safety strategies to ensure all employees feel safe in their downtown surroundings, or any other environment they find themselves in.
Above: Director of Security Tom Campanie, and Security Officers Bruno Daniele and Gary Peak walk Armory Square, Present-Day
Downtown Task Force
The Downtown Committee and a number of community partners have formed a new task force to explore opportunities to improve effectiveness of social service delivery and address quality of life concerns. The Downtown Task Force also includes the City of Syracuse, and service providers from Onondaga County, the Samaritan Center, Catholic Charities of Onondaga County, Salvation Army, Hutchings Psychiatric Center, My Father’s Kitchen, the Rescue Mission and Onondaga Case Management. The Task Force works together to address issues associated with homelessness, substance abuse and mental illness. Members of the Task Force coordinate to meet at least once a month in areas around downtown to talk about ways they can effectively work together to address quality of life concerns.
Accessibility
The critical infrastructure issues associated with the elevated portion of Interstate 81 provide our community with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to design a transportation system that better serves the needs of our community and will enhance our overall economic vitality. The Downtown Committee continues to work with the State Department of Transportation as it evaluates the social, economic and environmental impacts associated with the alternatives presented for the future of Interstate 81. I-81:The Inside Scoop
In March, the Downtown Committee released I81: The Inside Scoop, an infographic designed to take the complex dialogue around the future of Interstate 81 and present it in a simplified format for those who may not be as familiar with the conversation as it relates to ongoing revitalization in Downtown Syracuse. The easy-to-understand educational tool outlined the impacts associated with the Community Grid Alternative (formerly known as the Street Level Option) and building a new Viaduct, two options recommended by the New York State Department of Transportation for further study in its Draft Scoping Document.
The Inside Scoop!
Hundreds of Thousands of Square Feet of New Space... Consider the possibilities!!
Viaduct is just about moving people quickly through the city. Street Level is about getting people into the city easily to live, work & play.
Phased construction means less disruption to commerce, property & business owners.
GAIN
7 Acres of New Development Opportunities.
GAIN
Redensification of our Urban Fabric... prominent historic sites preserved.
The
Lost Property Value
12-40 Destroyed Downtown Buildings... some prominent historic sites, eroding downtown’s cultural fabric. Erased Development Opportunities... In fact, more dead space will be created for the highway to meet federal regulations.
Downtown
University Hill
Long Project Scope, resulting in disrupted traffic flow to downtown. Hold on... won’t downtown businesses be affected ?! Several years is not a weekend project!
_ Viaduct
. . . And a chance to repair the damage of the past.
Potential $5.4 Million of New Taxes Generated Annually.
The
Opportunity
Property Value
Green Public Spaces Blocks of Bike Paths Miles of Walkable Space
7 Acres Translates to Hundreds of Thousands of Square Feet of New Development.
The
Problem
+
GAIN
Premium Retailers New Restaurants Additional Office Spaces New Residential Units
Value
LOSS
$3.3 Million in Lost Taxes Annually. Just thinking out loud here... but how will we make up the tax dollars?
LOSS
Limited Downtown Cultural Growth...fewer new restaurants, retail & entertainment.
LOSS
Displaced Residents, Businesses & Employees.
LOSS
Limited Residential Development Opportunities.
That’s a problem, considering the current downtown occupancy rate is 99%. *Other options besides the street level and viaduct concepts have not been recommended for further study by NYSDOT and are not included here.
The Downtown Committee’s Goals for the Future of I-81:
• Restore connections to Downtown Syracuse and University Hill neighborhoods by eliminating physical and visual barriers.
• Create a vibrant, new neighborhood that improves the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit our community. • Disperse traffic onto multiple routes by ensuring this is not a one-road solution to present a functional, safe and efficient solution for all. • Generate tax revenue for the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County to ensure long-term sustainability.
Viaduct Option
To download this publication, go to downtownsyracuse.com
Street Level Option
Which Would You Choose?
Financial Report Parking It’s imperative that Downtown Syracuse has sufficient parking to support expanding businesses and demographics, as new businesses and people continue to move downtown. The Downtown Committee maintains up-to-date parking information available for the public to ensure parking information can be easily found. Parking Information
The Downtown Committee is in the process of updating its inventory of all public parking options throughout Downtown Syracuse. Brochures are updated as new information is obtained. Look for a current brochure on the Downtown Committee’s website, www.downtownsyraucse.com. Printed versions may be picked up at our 115 West Fayette Street office, our Downtown Information & Security Center at 440 South Warren Street, or mailed upon request.
Below: Jake Schrader, member of the Downtown Committee Parking staff, keeps things running smoothly at the National Grid Parking Lot, during the popular Taste of Syracuse Festival, 2015.
The Downtown Committee operates two parking lots for events: • One Herald Place, located at the intersection of North Clinton Street and Herald Place; • The National Grid Lot, located across from Dinosaur Bar-B-Que on North Franklin Street
Financial Report
Budgeted Income & Expense for July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015 Total Income: Special Assessment
$824,500
Events
$128,652
Transportation
$110,500 $32,374
Grants Miscellaneous
$6,387
Interest Income
$1,890
Total: Total Expenses:
$1,104,303
Total Expenses
Environnmental Maintenance
$253,102
Administration
$223,575
Marketing
$197,600
Security
$158,900
Economic Development
$101,500
Events
$72,894
Transportation
$64,358
Grants
$32,374
Total:
$1,104,303
6%
3% Environmental Maintenance
23%
7%
Administration Marketing
9%
Security Economic Development Events
14%
20%
Transportation Grants
18%
40th Anniversary Celebration 2015 holds very special meaning for the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc. Established in 1975, this year marks our 40th Anniversary. We are celebrating by shining a spotlight on our property owners and downtown businesses, retail shops, residential housing, restaurants, cultural institutions and hospitality services because you are what makes Downtown Syracuse shine so bright! #MondayMemories, #GoodNewsMonday
The Downtown Committee is celebrating downtown’s rebirth, redevelopment, history and accomplishments as seen through your eyes. Each month, look for a different theme related to downtown’s continued evolution across our website and social media platforms. Please join along with us as we continue to highlight the accomplishments that have fueled a resurgence in Downtown Syracuse.
M
Every Monday, take a trip down Memory Lane. Share your favorite memories made in Downtown Syracuse. If you had a really great experience downtown recently, tell us about that too!
#TuesdayTalks
T
Look forward to reading a fresh perspective from a different downtown figure every Tuesday. Learn insights from someone who has played a significant role in Downtown’s continued revitalization efforts, and hear about their vision for the future.
#WaybackWednesday
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Every Wednesday, the Downtown Committee encourages you to turn back the clock, and the pages in your history books. Find out what happened in Downtown Syracuse on this particular day in history.
#ThrowbackThursday
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Catch a glimpse of the past in iconic Downtown Syracuse pictures, posted on the Downtown Committee’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.
#FridayFever
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The Downtown Committee has got you covered as you look forward to the weekend. Every week, we preview the events you won’t want to miss.
OFFICERS Chair: James V. Breuer, President, Hueber-Breuer Construction Vice Chair: Anthony Fiorito, President, Partnership Properties Secretary: Robert Doucette, President, Armory Development & Management; Partner, Paramount Realty Group Treasurer: Brian Howard, Senior Vice President & Market Manager, Key Private Bank DIRECTORS Timothy Carroll, Director of Mayoral Initiatives, City of Syracuse Peter Dunn, President & CEO, CNY Community Foundation William Fisher, Deputy County Executive, Onondaga County Jo Anne Gagliano, President, edr Companies Edward Koolakian, Owner, Koolakian’s Menswear Donald Lemp, Owner, M. Lemp Jewelers Melanie Littlejohn, Regional Executive: Energy Solution Services, National Grid Andrew Maxwell, Director of Policy and Innovation, City of Syracuse David Nutting, CEO & Chairman, VIP Structures Gregg Tripoli, Executive Director, Onondaga Historical Association EX OFFICIO MEMBER Robert M. Simpson, President, CenterState CEO STAFF Merike L. Treier, Executive Director Charles J. McFadden, Director of Operations Laurie Reed, Marketing Director Tom Campanie, Director of Security Alice Maggiore, Communications Coordinator Bethany Holbrook, Economic Development & Marketing Assistant Kristine Sherlock, Assistant to the Executive Director Gary Peak, Security Officer John Marcon, Security Officer Bruno Daniele, Security Officer David Kneer, Operations Staff Kevin Stanard, Operations Staff Jake Schrader, Parking Staff Zach Schrader, Parking Staff
Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc.
Photo by Dongmin Shin
115 West Fayette Street Syracuse, NY 13202 Address Service Requested