Concrete Sections at Binghamton Boscov’s Store to be Inspected

A sidewalk next to the Binghamton Boscov's store remains closed pending an inspection of the exterior wall of the downtown building.

Boscov's senior vice president Jacob Stein said a city inspector who had been checking on the removal of an unused pedestrian walkway noticed "what appears to be a small crack or potentially a piece of loose concrete" on the Water Street side of the store.

Stein said because of the height of the section in question, it's difficult to assess it from the ground.

Lifts are to be used to permit a close inspection. Stein said if something needs to be removed, sealed or addressed in some other way, it will be done at that time.

Stein said he expects the inspection may be conducted Friday.

Of the decision to close the sidewalk, Mayor Richard David said "we wanted to do our due diligence"

Speaking on WNBF Radio's Binghamton Now program, David said the city's policy is "safety first." He said "we just don't want to take any chances."

Barricades continued to block the sidewalk on Thursday but there were no signs advising pedestrians of the closure. Several people were observed going around the barricades and walking in the affected area.

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com

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