One Last Drive Through Binghamton’s State Street Parking Ramp

If you’ve ever gone to a concert, festival, hockey game, an afternoon lunch date, or early morning shift in downtown Binghamton, chances are you’ve parked in the State Street Parking Ramp. It’s been the unofficial welcome mat to downtown life for over five decades. Students used it. Employees used it.

But soon? It’ll be nothing but a memory.

Demolition Confirmed, Ramp to Be Replaced by Temporary Lot

The City of Binghamton has confirmed that the State Street Parking Ramp at 142 State St. is officially scheduled for demolition. Once the concrete crumbles, the space won’t immediately turn into a building, instead, it’ll temporarily become a surface parking lot while the city decides what the long term plan should be. So no, parking isn’t disappearing completely, but it is changing.

Where to Park Now That State Street Ramp Is Coming Down

If State Street was your go to spot, you’ll want to scope out the other options now. According to the city, the Water Street Garage, Hawley Street Garage, and Collier Street Lot are the top alternatives. They’re not quite the same as the slightly creaky, echo filled State Street ramp, but at least they’re still standing.

Bob Joseph

Take a Final Ride Through the Ramp Before It’s Gone

Before the demolition crews roll in, local resident Frank Palmisano took one last drive through the structure and filmed the whole thing. It’s oddly nostalgic watching the ramps, rails, and dim lighting that so many people passed through without ever really seeing.

Binghamton Residents Share Their Ramp Memories

Even parking garages have stories, and this one came with plenty. Local residents on Reddit chimed in with their thoughts and even some heartfelt memories.

“We used to drive down to the bottom floor to hang out and skateboard. Brought lights, some ramps, and a grind rail. It was perfect.” — fatherOblivion69

“If they don’t replace it with a parking lot… those who take the bus and leave a car downtown will have fewer options.” — BillPlastic3759

Turns out, it wasn’t just a parking ramp. It was a skate park. A meetup spot. A shelter from the rain. A backdrop for pre-concert excitement.

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What’s Next for the Site?

For now, it’ll be a flat parking lot. But long term? That’s up to city planners, and maybe even some public input. Could it be housing? Retail? A green space? A better designed ramp 2.0? Whatever comes next, one thing’s for sure, Binghamton is saying goodbye to a piece of everyday history. Will you miss it? Or are you glad to see it go?