MAYOR'S MONTHLY MESSAGE
July 2008
My administration is dedicated to making Binghamton stronger and healthier for years to come – and nowhere is our commitment to sustainability more evident than in our development initiatives.
Let’s start downtown – the heart of our local economy. In our urban core over the next four years, we'll be supporting more than $52 million of parking ramp renovations, bridge repairs, building upgrades, and gateway projects – and the positive economic ripple-effect should be far-reaching: not only will such development bring valuable dollars to our community, these projects will also catalyze local business growth and job opportunities over the long-term.
No city can be strong and healthy without sound infrastructure, and we’re ensuring Binghamton is up to the test. Through our 2008 Infrastructure Improvement Program, we're carrying out $4.4 million in street reconstructions, water main and sewer replacements, and pavement profiling – 35 projects in all. We can never forget that safe roads and clean, accessible water are vital to our public health and safety, the foundation of a vibrant community.
Our amenities are notable as well – and they’re growing more vast and varied still. With our partners at the State and County, we’ve made Binghamton’s River Trail an attraction for residents and visitors alike – to walk, run, and bike; to appreciate Binghamton’s waterfront and natural habitat; to commute between the City’s north side and Center City; and to learn about the city’s history and culture. And just last month we received a $105,000 State grant to assist in extending the Trail from Cheri Lindsey Park to Ostiningo Park – completing more than four miles of continuous greenway along the Chenango River, and enabling even greater activity on this popular community destination.
On top of smart strategies in building anew, a commitment to sustainability requires that we preserve and utilize our existing resources and historic architecture – and I’m proud to say we're making strides in that effort. In my 2007 State of the City Address, I pledged to launch a Blight Prevention Initiative, and by January we succeeded in implementing each portion - a new vacant property ordinance, a dedicated position, and organizational reform. Now in action, this initiative has compelled vacant property owners to carry out maintenance and renovation plans, and has received state wide recognition – winning first place for Public Management and Administration in the New York Conference of Mayors’ annual Local Government Achievement Awards.
These are just some of the ways we’re making our community safer, healthier, and more vital for all residents – now, and for the future. With this forward moving vision, we’re achieving positive change.
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