Laying the Foundation for Downtown’s Ongoing Transformation
Richard Bucci
Former Mayor City of Binghamton / Retired President of the Catholic Schools of Broome County
In Maggie Gilroy’s comprehensive piece in the Press & Sun-Bulletin, “Reflecting on the State of Downtown Binghamton” Mayor Rich David accurately pointed to the development of Binghamton University’s Downtown Center as a cornerstone of this progress.
This concept was rooted in my vision to transition downtown from a fading retail hub to a center of education, arts, entertainment and loft living.
In the fall of 2000, we reached out to SUNY Chancellor Robert King and Binghamton University President Lois DeFleur urging the creation of an “Off-Campus College” in downtown Binghamton.
Although the proposal was met with initial skepticism and reluctance we never let go of the dream. In 2003 our advocacy efforts were rewarded with a $25 million commitment from Governor George Pataki for the construction of Binghamton University’s Education and Community Center.
What we envisioned twenty years ago has come to fruition. The Center’s impact downtown has been significant. It’s been a catalyst for major student housing projects, the continued growth of loft living and the explosion of eateries, breweries and taverns. Downtown is now an entertainment destination for residents throughout the region.
The initial model of hosting a higher educational presence in downtown continues to reverberate with the construction of SUNY-Broome’s Culinary and Event Center at the former Carnegie Library.
In addition to a vibrant university presence the establishment of an Arts District and creation of a Park and Trail System along the Chenango River are projects that became dynamic building blocks for the ensuing growth.
We worked with urban pioneers like Anthony Brunelli and Orazio Salati who saw the great potential downtown and located their galleries in the classic buildings on State Street. Their initial commitment lead to the creation of an Arts District that became the venue for additional galleries, specialty shops and restaurants. Building on this momentum the artists in partnership with the Gorgeous Washington Association initiated First Friday. This monthly festival showcasing artists and their works has only grown over the years. On the horizon for the Arts District is increased investment & expansion.
We also believed opening our rivers to recreational use was another way to enhance downtown. The construction of a park at the confluence of the Susquehanna and Chenango rivers unlocked one of the most beautiful vistas in Upstate New York. The companion walking and bike paths along the Chenango River bring people of all ages to the center city. The project has expanded since its inception making it a truly unique venue.
My administration is proud of the role we played in laying the foundation for the transformation that has occurred downtown over the last twenty years. What’s exciting is that it’s far from over.
Richard A. Bucci served as Mayor of the City of Binghamton from 1994-2005 and currently is a member of The Agency Board of Directors.
Private practice as a psychotherapist
5 年Do you remember the newspaper article published locally about 20 yrs ago ? My former deceased husband and I had advise about growing interest and building Binghamton? We advised bringing BU downtown and using our rivers and developing our river views like San Antonio’s River Walk . We offered free trips to San Antonio and no one accepted. We were serious. Bing has become a great city again thanks to our mayor. I would like to see more restaurants on the river or in elevated plots where there could be aerial views like the restaurants in NYC that have rooftop locations with river views ! As for the growth of art galleries in Bing , I opened the second one on South Mountain and was successful and then joined Cooperative Gallery on State Street which is still a success and we are celebrating our 20 year anniversary soon! After joining Cooperative 213 on State St , Anthony Brunelli and Orazio opened. We on State St were founders of First Friday’s We are fortunate to have Broadway Theater League,The Know Theater, Phelps Mansion, and the Arts Council participating now. And more !
Private practice as a psychotherapist
5 年I’m really liking the positive appearance of downtown Bing over all but why can’t the fountain be fixed at the round about when Rome has no problem nor other European countries with their fountains and we just have one to fix?
Private practice as a psychotherapist
5 年Can we get volunteers to fill empty flower pots with evergreens in winter as they give a bleak appearance ?
Former Mayor City of Binghamton / Retired President of the Catholic Schools of Broome County
5 年Bill, thanks for the positive response. Hope all is going with you & your family.
Cybersecurity & Technology Risk Consultant
5 年Serving in Mayor Bucci’s administration, I saw firsthand the commitment and vision that Nick had for not only downtown Binghamton, but the entire city. When I travel back to my hometown today, it is clear that vision has come to fruition. I congratulate Mayor David and his administration for continuing to improve and build upon the foundation set by Mayor Bucci. ?