Binghamton Boscov’s Building Original Exterior May Be Seen Again

While millions of dollars in updates are planned inside the Boscov's store in downtown Binghamton, there also may be some changes made to the outside of the structure.

The building at Court and Water streets, which was constructed more than a century ago, is owned by the Binghamton Local Development Corporation.

It was occupied by the Boston Store, which then became known as Fowler, Dick & Walker.

The building originally featured a yellow brick exterior that was concealed in a 1972 modernization project.

Some fans of Binghamton's historic buildings have been hoping the "cover up" can be removed to expose the original architecture. It now appears that could happen.

Jim Boscov, the CEO of the Pennsylvania-based department store chain, told WNBF News "there's serious talk about it." He said he's discussed the concept of removing the current exterior with Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo, who favors the idea.

Boscov said that he's "absolutely in favor of that." But he said improving the interior of the store to provide the best environment for Boscov's customers is a priority.

Boscov said "the current façade is OK but it's not nearly as magnificent as the original building." But, he said, some inspection will be needed to "make sure that we know what we're uncovering" and that it will be affordable to replace all of the windows that would be exposed.

While Boscov said he'd be interested in the project, it would be "a big task."

Historian Gerald Smith said he "would love to see that happen." He said bringing back the original exterior "fits with the motif we've created in downtown Binghamton with lighting and the use of brick on historic structures."

Smith also said he would like to see a reproduction of the copper dome placed above the store entrance. The cupola that had been there was removed during the modernization project a half-century ago.

LISTEN: Boscov's chairman and CEO Jim Boscov talked about the future of the downtown Binghamton store during a live interview on WNBF Radio on November 22, 2023.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.