New landscaping, lighting and decorative pavers are about to be installed in a rundown area in the heart of downtown Binghamton.

The Washington Street pedestrian mall has languished for several years. In July 2014, the "Sidewalk of Stars" near the MetroCenter was removed in preparation for a project that would have created 11 parking spaces.

Previously: Downtown Binghamton's "Sidewalk of Stars" Removed

Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News (file)
Markers honoring 44 Binghamton-area residents were removed from the "Sidewalk of Stars" in July 2014. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
loading...

Flashback - October 2014: Binghamton's Washington Street Mall Gets Upgrades

City council blocked work on that $336,000 project. The new initiative is expected to cost $636,000.

Mayor Richard David said the city is "transforming a concrete jungle with new green space and amenities."

A preliminary site plan rendering of the Washington Street Mall project. Image: Binghamton City Government
A preliminary site plan rendering of the Washington Street Mall project. (Image: Binghamton City Government)
loading...

David said the area has a long history of being "a problem spot" with "illegal and undesirable activity."

Procon Contracting of Vestal is the contractor for the pedestrian mall upgrade project. It is scheduled to be completed this fall.

Construction work on the Washington Street Pedestrian Mall on June 17, 2021. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
Construction work on the Washington Street Pedestrian Mall on June 17, 2021. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
loading...
Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 772-8400 extension 233.

For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

KEEP READING: Scroll to see what the big headlines were the year you were born

 

SAY WHAT? The Most Mispronounced Pennsylvania Names

 

More From 98.1 The Hawk