“We originally worked to preserve this historic property, but economic realities prohibited that path,” said Mayor Matt Ryan. “Now we look forward to clearing the way for new development atop one of downtown Binghamton’s most important parcels. I want to assure residents and business owners that the process will be carried out safely and securely.”



The demolition process will commence Monday, May 12, when crews will begin arranging the necessary equipment. Such preparation will last several days, during which the project site will be fenced in fully. The entire demolition process is expected to last five to six weeks.



Community safety will be a top priority during the demolition effort, which will be conducted by Syracuse-based Binachi Industrial Services. Water will be sprayed on the site to prevent dust, and the air will be monitored throughout the process by an accredited firm, Binghamton’s Environmental Link.



The City will ensure pedestrians are at a safe distance from the demolition site. The sidewalk in front of the Ross Building will be closed and barricaded, and the Binghamton Police Department will ensure passers-by are mindful of the changes.



The City will also take measures to ensure traffic patterns are managed as efficiently as possible during the demolition.



· On both Court Street, between State and Collier Streets, and on State Street, between Court and Hawley Streets, two-way traffic will remain, but only in two lanes.



· For Court Street, what is currently the right-hand lane going westbound will become the sole westbound lane, and what is currently the left-hand westbound lane will become the sole eastbound lane.



· For State Street, what is currently the southbound lane will be used for northbound car traffic, and what is currently the parking lane, on the west side of the street, will be used for southbound traffic.



· Barricades will close off Court Street’s current eastbound lanes, and State Street’s current northbound lanes.



· The traffic changes will require a temporary re-routing of deliveries currently made in the parking lane on State Street, and the City recommends Washington Street and Collier Street as temporary delivery sites; the State Street parking lane may be available for deliveries between midnight and 5am, traffic permitting.