Message from the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc.

This year holds special meaning for the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc., as 2015 marks our 40th Anniversary! In 1975, our community had the foresight to create a mechanism to ensure consistent and dedicated attention would be placed on downtown. The Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc. was the result of this foresight, and became the first organization of its kind in New York State. As the stewards of the special assessment district, we’re honored to work in partnership with you to create a vibrant Downtown Syracuse.

A Forward Thinking Community Our community has a vision for what we want our future to be, and a track record for making it happen. Think about Armory Square. Forty years ago, this warehouse district was known for food processing. It was the vision of Bob Doucette and George Curry, two urban pioneers, that kick-started the neighborhood Armory Square has become today. Soon, others including Bill MacDowell, Tom Cunningham, and Karyn Korteling saw the potential and established a presence. Today, this ware-house district features the finest dining and retail around. Hanover Square was once the red light district in downtown. Iconic structures, such as the Gridley Building, were slated for demolition. Forty years ago, conversations started around the preservation potential of this neighborhood. Hanover Square became the first National Register Historic District in Syracuse, paving the way for future development. Many of the individuals that fostered these projects remain influential threads of the fabric that make Downtown thrive. Today, more than $340 million in development activity is underway! Progress is palpable. Every day, there’s a new headline for the $60 million renovation of the historic Hotel Syracuse. It’s because of the vision and personal commitment of developer Ed Reilly and the support of many community partners, that we can now say we have a dedicated Downtown convention center hotel! This level of investment is the direct result of visionaries in our community, committed to progress. We’re building a city for our next generation. Together, we’re creating a downtown of the future - a downtown where people choose to be.

Residential Development Perhaps the most visible change is the number of new residents that call downtown home. In the last ten years, our residential population has increased 43%! This past year, 153 new residential units came online. There are more than 300 units either planned or under construction, expected to come online within the next two years. This would add 540 new residents to downtown’s population.

Downtown Retail 18 new retail businesses have opened this past year, a sign of commitment and belief in downtown’s strength. Syracuse has a track record of fostering entrepreneurs who make investments that improve our community. Take Darren Chavis, who recently opened Creole Soul Cafe. Born and raised in Syracuse, he’s taken his passion and established a downtown presence on Jefferson Street. Restaurants like Modern Malt, Funk n’ Waffles, Peppino’s and The York demonstrate creativity through new takes on traditional food. Then, there are Café Kubal and Byblos Bar & Grill, whose owners demonstrated their belief in downtown’s strength by opening second locations this year. Downtown staple, Clark’s Ale House, renewed its downtown presence. Meanwhile, the community institution, Liehs & Steigerwald, is expected to open a downtown location soon. Finally, Kevin and Nicole Samolis, two self-starters, saw a gap in the marketplace and created Sky Armory. Fondly remembered as the former Wells & Coverly department store, today Sky Armory creates new memories with a highly personalized approach to events.

South Warren Street Renaissance On South Warren Street, a renaissance is underway. Historically the financial district of downtown, changes in this sector led to a shrinking commercial footprint. Through the organic growth of tech-oriented companies, vacancies have been filled. This district has reinvented itself as an innovator: • The Tech Garden anchors the southern end with cutting edge technology companies such as Lake Effect Applications, Spincar.com and Euphony, Inc. • South Warren Street is also home to Ephesus Technologies, headquartered on the ground floor of Onondaga Tower. Not only did this homegrown company light the 2015 Super Bowl, it’s slated to provide the LED technology to light the 2018 Superbowl as well! • TCGPlayer.com, led by Chedy Hampson, has sought out vibrant surroundings for its employees. Rapid growth is projected as the gaming operation expands in the historic State Tower Building. • SUNY Upstate Medical University’s announcement that it will bring more than 400 employees into the Galleries only fuels this fire. As the diversity of our business mix continues to grow, it weaves a dynamic downtown fabric.

Present-Day

James V. Breuer, Chair Merike L. Treier, Executive Director

Message from the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc. Arts & Culture Downtown is the stage on which we celebrate our community. Every year, more than 2.5 million visitors come downtown for our festivals and events. It’s estimated another 1.3 million attend performances at the Oncenter and Landmark Theatre.

Happening at other cultural institutions: • The Erie Canal Museum is nearing completion on its $1 million renovation bringing canal history to life through interactive displays. • The Everson Museum is re-establishing its presence as a downtown destination through new family programming and Community Day activities. • The MOST continues to delight families through new exhibits and investments in lighting and exterior façade work. • And, at the OHA, crowd-pleasing exhibits such as Salt City Rock: The History of Rock and Roll in Syracuse, has brought a 12% increase in membership, and almost a 20% increase in visitors last year.

summer, providing an additional tool to protect the more than $340 investments underway. New this year, we’ve collaborated with social service providers to create a Downtown Task Force. This pilot program changes the way outreach services are provided to those living with mental illness, homelessness or substance abuse issues. Still in its infancy, the goal is to build relationships with a traditionally hard-to-reach population and get them the services they need.

The Future of Interstate 81 No bigger opportunity exists for downtown’s continued revitalization than the opportunities presented with a re-imagined Interstate 81. This is our moment to write Syracuse’s next chapter. The needs of our community have changed dramatically since the viaduct was built. We live in a generation that craves walkability and authenticity. We need a solution that’s going to attract our next generation of leaders, and make Syracuse stand out as a progressive city. This decision is too important to sit on the sidelines. Lend your voice. We cannot allow the work of the last 40 years to be undermined by a highway that divides our community.

Looking Forward Downtown has incredible potential, but there’s still more to do. As we reflect on the last 40 years of the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, there are two things the Downtown from 1975 and the Downtown of today share: a strong sense of community and a vision for transformative projects. We have an incredibly rich fabric to celebrate in Downtown Syracuse, and at the heart of it all, are the people who make up this thriving community. Together we embrace change, together we look forward, and together we’ve positioned our urban core for a better, stronger future. Let today be more than a celebration of the last 40 years. Let today be the day we make a decision, together, to have an even brighter future. We’d like to thank you all for your continued dedication to Downtown Syracuse. Through our collective partnerships, let’s keep making good things happen.

With much excitement,

Mid-1980s

Public Space The Connective Corridor streetscape project is one of the largest street reconstruction projects of the last few decades, blending arts and infrastructure. When the project is complete this season, it will solidify Syracuse’s status as an innovator and improve mobility for pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists. In the Heart of Downtown, Mayor Miner has prioritized the redesign of the former Common Center bus hub into a new urban space. !Melk, a New York City based design team, has been selected to work closely with our community to realize the potential of this new urban space.

Security Partnerships Through a multi-pronged approach, we’re focused on creating welcoming public spaces. Our partnership with the Syracuse Police Department ensures dedicated attention to the district. We’re incredibly fortunate to work with some of the most proactive officers in the City to maintain downtown’s status as one of the safest neighborhoods. Thanks to the incredible support from Assemblyman Magnarelli,the Downtown Committee installed 10 security cameras this

Marketing & CommunicationsThe Downtown Committee’s Marketing and Communications program promotes the positive changes happening throughout Downtown Syracuse, as well as the retail, restaurant and cultural offerings that make Downtown Syracuse a vibrant destination. The Downtown Committee ensures information about the district is easily accessible. The events organized and promoted by the Downtown Committee support its mission of revitalization, and further highlight Downtown Syracuse as the center of our community.

360-Degree Virtual Tour

Holiday Trail & DecorationsDowntown is the place for holiday shopping and festivities, where family traditions are established. This past season, the Downtown Committee invited the community to experience the magic of the holidays with the Downtown Holiday Trail. The Downtown Committee also executed a new decorations contract with Able Events and added vibrant new holiday lighting to dress Armory Square Park.

Above: Arts & Crafts Festival takes centerstage on Salina Street

Downtown Farmers’ Market Plants VibrancyEvery Tuesday, from June through October, 50 of the region’s best farmers and produce dealers set up shop in Clinton Square. The Downtown Farmers’ Market offers a convenient, open-air alternative to shop for locally-grown, fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and flowers, wine and baked goods. New for the 2015 season, the Downtown Committee is partnering with the Onondaga County Public Library and the Woman Infant Children (WIC) program to promote wellness and healthy lifestyle initiatives.

1977

1980s

Arts & Crafts FestivalThe 44th Annual AmeriCU Arts & Crafts Festival, held July 25 through July 27, was a spectacular three-day showcase of the country’s most talented artists, craftspeople and entertainers. The festival, which moved from Salina Street to historic Columbus Circle in 1978, now features 160 artists representing 25 states and Canada. In addition to a diverse selection of fine arts and contemporary crafts, the festival features interactive strolling entertainers and refreshment favorites. The festival draws more than 50,000 visitors each year, and is hailed as one of the premier festivals of its kind in the northeast.

News & Events BlastsThe Downtown Committee keeps the community “in the know,” generating excitement and pride through weekly news and events updates to newsletter subscribers. Until technology caught up with us to allow for digital material, the Downtown Committee printed quarterly newsletters and bi-monthly calendars as seen below.

2013

2015

Neighborhood SupportThe Downtown Committee provides organizational assistance to the Cathedral Square Neighborhood Association and the Armory Square Association. It also provides financial support for some downtown events, including the Armory Square Association’s signature summertime event, the Candlelight Series. The series, which stages major concerts

Above: Candlelight Series in Armory Square

Spotlight on Syracuse StyleThe Downtown Committeee was recognized by the International Downtown Association for its role in the annual presentation of Syracuse Style. In September, Walton Street was transformed into an 80-foot-long runway when the Downtown Committee partnered with local fashion designer, Lisa Butler, to organize the event. Fashions from dozens of downtown retailers were featured.

Mid-1980s

each year, celebrated 30 seasons in 2014. Started by the Downtown Committee in 1984, the series (still free to attend today!) continues to promote the character and charm of historic Armory Square.

Television AdvertisingThe Downtown Committee continued its “Great Stories Begin Downtown” campaign through two television spots produced by Solon Quinn Studios, which air throughout the summer and fall. The advertisements highlight Downtown as the heart of our community and the feeling of camaraderie expressed by the 30,000+ people who live and work in the city center.

The Downtown Committee partneredwith Google Maps business view photographers to become the first downtown association in the state to launch a 360-Degree Virtual Tour, bringing Google’s “Street View” technology off the streets and inside downtown businesses. Users are granted interior access to shops, restaurants, museums, services and accommodations. Dozens of downtown businesses signed up to offer this unique viewpoint on their websites. Virtual access to participating establishments is also available on the Downtown Committee’s website.

360-Degree Virtual Tour Grants Panoramic, Interior Access

Accents of Armory Square (above) and Pastabilities (below) both signed up to offer interior access.

Restaurants Dish Out DealsA record 27 restaurants, including six new restaurants, participated in Renzi Downtown Dining Weeks. The official promotion ran from February 16 through March 1, but the event was so successful, 17 restaurants opted to extend their Dining Weeks menus for another week.

Beverages, tax & gratuity are additional. Some restaurants require reservations.

February 16 - March 1, 2015317 at Montgomery

Ale ‘N Angus PubBamboo House

Bistro Éléphant SteakhouseBittersweet Wine Bar & Desserts

Black Olive Mediterranean TavernaBull & Bear Pub

Byblos Bar & GrillByblos Mediterranean Cafe

Dinosaur Bar-B-QueEmpire Brewing Company

Funk ‘n WafflesIndian Tandoor

Kitty Hoynes Irish PubLemon Grass

LoFoMaxwell’s

The MissionModern Malt

NamuOtro Cinco

PastabilitiesPrime Steakhouse

Sakana-Ya Sushi BarSmall Plates

Syracuse Suds FactoryTang Flavor

317 Montgomery St. 214-4267238 Harrison St. 426-9672252 W. Genesee St. 424-8800238 W. Jefferson St. 475-1111127 W. Fayette St. 474-9463250 S. Clinton St. 399-5599125 E. Water St. 701-3064316 S. Clinton St. 299-6512223 N. Clinton St. 478-3333246 W. Willow St. 476-4937120 Walton St. 475-2337307 S. Clinton St. 474-1060232 Harrison St. 565-4099301 W. Fayette St. 424-1974238 W. Jefferson St. 475-1111214 Walton St. 422-6200122 E. Genesee St. 299-6633304 E. Onondaga St. 475-7344325 S. Clinton St. 471-6258215 Walton St. 475-0220206 S. Warren St. 422-6876311 S. Franklin St. 474-1153101 E. Water St. 299-8047215 Walton St. 475-0117116 Walton St. 373-0031320 S. Clinton St. 471-2253413 S. Warren St. 472-0279

www.DowntownSyracuse.com/DiningWeek

Presented by

W I T H C E N T R A L N E W Y O R K

#DiningWeekSYR

27 Restaurants

3 Courses • $25 or lessDelivering the Difference

To Our Customers, Our Employees, Our Community.Delivering the DifferenceTo Our Customers, Our Employees, Our Community.

#CelebrateDowntownSYRIn January, the Downtown Committee launched an Instagram account to accompany existing Facebook and Twitter pages. As part of its 40th Anniversary Celebration, the Downtown Committee will continue to spotlight the people, places, businesses and residents who make Downtown Syracuse stand out as a destination throughout the year. Please join the conversation as the Downtown Committee and Downtown Syracuse continues to grow in exciting new ways.

Economic Development The incredible amount of development taking place in Downtown Syracuse continues to draw new residents, office and retail tenants. During the 2014-2015 fiscal year, 18 new retail businesses opened in Downtown Syracuse. At least four more are expected by the end of the summer. Currently, more than $340 million is being invested in downtown development. The Downtown Committee’s economic development team works to recruit new companies and businesses to the city center, and retain existing tenants to ensure continued vibrancy. The Downtown Committee collects market information and provides assistance to developers and property owners interested in redeveloping underutilized properties.

Funk ‘n Waffles, which now occupies the same space on the block, opened in December, 2014. One of 18 new businesses to open in Downtown Syracuse this fiscal year, the spot is a happening place to listen to live music today.

Happy Endings, a popular cake and coffee bar, was the place to go for coffee, desserts, and live musicalentertainment in the late 1980s and 1990s. The Armory Square hot spot on South Clinton Street played host to several national recording acts, including the popular rock group, Barenaked Ladies.

Community Renewal: NY Main Street Grant DistributionThe New York State Department of Housing and Community Renewal awarded a $200,000 NY Main Street grant to the Downtown Committee to assist with residential and commercial mixed-use property improvements along Jefferson and South Warren Streets. As part of that program, the Downtown Committee awarded Onondaga Tower funding for special exterior lighting at 125 East Jefferson Street in the fall of 2014. Common Space received funding to develop Syracuse CoWorks, at 201 East Jefferson Street (pictured to

the left). It will also receive funding for living spaces. The Downtown Committee has awarded funds to the MOST for facade improvements, the former Onondaga Music Building at 214 West Jefferson Street (pictured above) to create new residential units, and to the former WFBL building on South Warren Street for facade improvements.

Downtown Retail: Then and Now

Report Cards for DowntownThe Downtown Committee produces quarterly reports detailing Downtown Syracuse’s office and retail market trends. The reports are valuable resources for prospective tenants, property owners and developers, showing the most up-to-date and accurate information around.

Above: “Full of Opportunity” storefront sign, seen around Downtown in the Mid-1980s

Late 1980sSpring, 2015

Showcasing Urban LivingMore than 2,100 people attended the Ninth Annual Downtown Living Tour on Saturday, May 16 to explore eight residential tour stops highlighting the projects transforming Downtown Syracuse. The self-guided walking tour offered an inside look at downtown’s newest apartments, historic renovations and luxury condos. For the third year, the event was headquartered at VIP Structures’ Pike Block. More than 80 people volunteered their time to help show off our center city, and keep the event running smoothly. New partnerships included premium guided tours offered by NOexcuses Tours, Inc. and an Information Booth staffed by members of Believe in Syracuse. Also new in 2015, a quartet from Symphoria played music for guests in the lobby of Dey’s Plaza, the Official Tour Rest Stop, and the Creekwalk Commons Cafe Kubal timed its Grand Opening Celebration to coincide with the Tour.

Onondaga CountyOnondaga CountyThere’s only so much land in Onondaga County. Being able to

measure impacts of land use decisions means we’re better able to manage policies and how they affect our community.

497,920ACRES1

Density MattersDensity MattersDowntown utilizes 0.13% of the County’s land area, yet produces

7.6% of its retail sales taxes. Downtown shines! A dense downtown provides incredible financial returns for our community

giving our region character with the unique businesses located here. That character draws residents and visitors.

7.6%retail sales

tax

.13%land area

Density Increases RevenueDensity Increases RevenueStacking uses allows for greater tax revenue to be generated on the same footprint of land, providing more returns to our

community than single-story structures. More people can fit in this footprint, too – Downtown Syracuse is the employment

hub of the region. More than 27,000 people work here.

Support the CoreSupport the CoreWe’ve got a tremendous asset in the density of modern and historic

buildings in Downtown Syracuse. Downtown utilizes 1.6% of the City’s total land area and produces 9.5% of the property taxes…We’re a

pretty significant revenue generator for our community!

1.6%city’s footprint

9.5%property

tax

Stack UsesStack UsesThe more efficiently we use our land, the more tax productivity we

have on that land…generating more money for our community!

$34.9Mper acre

$198Kper acre

59.5acres

.48acres

One Lincoln Center

Walmart, Camillus NY

Compare Apples to ApplesCompare Apples to ApplesIt’s difficult to compare projects to projects. Simplify the math to better compare tax productivity impacts using a common factor,

such as tax productivity per acre.

68ACRE

FOOTPRINT

SHOPPINGTOWN MALL

.76ACRE

FOOTPRINT

$900KTAX YIELD

PER ACRE$2.6M

TAX YIELDPER ACRE

CENTER ARMORY

F O RF O R

How to Generate More Revenue How to Generate More Revenue

Spoiler

Alert! The Answer is Develop Downtown

1Source: US Census Bureau

Let’s Build Off Of Our Existing Assets To Generate Incredible Returns For Our Community

1

3

5

2

4

6

!

The inside of an apartment at the Hogan Block, located at the corner of West Fayette and South Franklin Streets, 1986

The inside of an apartment at the Pike Block, located at the corner of West Fayette and South Salina Streets, Present-Day

1986 2015

High Demand for HousingDowntown Syracuse is one of the two fastest growing neighborhoods in Onondaga County. The occupancy rate is currently at 99 percent. The Downtown Committee partnered with the Community Preservation Corporation to commission a housing market analysis to project future trends:

• The analysis found downtown’s housing market could accommodate up to 727 additional units per year for the next three years.

• Occupancy would remain at 99 percent.

• There are 495 residential units either planned, or under construction, projected to come online over the next two years.

Cheat Sheet: How to Generate More Revenue (Spoiler Alert: Develop Downtown!)The Downtown Committee released this infographic to emphasize the importance of supporting investment downtown. The “Cheat Sheet” was created using data from Onondaga County and New York State. It demonstrates how dense, downtown development pays dividends for the entire community.

Environmental MaintenanceDowntown Syracuse has never looked so vibrant. In efforts to ensure downtown is attractive, clean and accessible, the Downtown Committee’s Environmental Maintenance staff undertakes beautification programs to enhance ongoing revitalization throughout the central business district. Currently, there is more than $115 million invested in infrastructure improvements underway in Downtown Syracuse.

Special Recognition for Creating a Healthy PlaceIn March, the Downtown Committee Director of Operations Chuck McFadden was recognized by the Onondaga County Department of Health as part of its Creating Healthy Places initiative. As the Director of the Downtown Farmers’ Market, Chuck works with participating farmers to donate unsold produce to local food banks and emergency food sites for distribution to their patrons.

Neither Rain, Nor Snow... The Downtown Committee Maintenance Staff is at work year-round to ensure Downtown Syracuse is attractive, clean and accessible. From planting flowers, to mowing, litter patrol, plowing and so much more, our crew gets up with the sun to tackle a wide variety of tasks to make downtown clean and attractive. This winter was especially rough, but our crew kept up with the snowfall, assisting property owners in making sure pathways were clear for more than 27,000 downtown employees and 3,100 residents.

Blooming DowntownEvery summer, beauty blossoms downtown. In total, 334 hanging flower baskets dress up downtown streets in Cathedral, Hanover, Clinton and Armory Square neighborhoods, as well as along Salina Street. This season marks five years since the popular program started. The Downtown Committee works with downtown businesses and property owners to maintain the baskets, creating a thriving downtown. Help the effort by sponsoring a flower basket (or several!) with a tax-deductible donation of $45/basket.

Above: A cascading flower basket delights on Washington Street,Present-Day

Left: Chuck McFadden (far left) helps install a flower basket in Hanover Square with assistance from Benny Kuppel (right) from the City of Syracuse Parks and Recreation Department, and Charles Johnson (center), a member of the Downtown Committee staff; Circa Mid-1980s

Mid-1980s

2005

2015

December, 2014

June, 2015

Earth Day Clean-UpOn Saturday, April 25, more than 180 volunteers donned green t-shirts and gloves to fill trash bags. Groups of families, friends and members of community organizations turned out to give Downtown Syracuse a spring cleaning, making sure the gateways to the center of the city were ready to welcome the spring season. The Downtown Committee partners with the City of Syracuse’s Clean Up ‘Cuse effort for the Earth Day Clean-Up event each year.

Partners in PlantingNew this year, the Downtown Committee offered a program that combines employee engagement and downtown beautification. The Partners in Planting program bolsters downtown employees’ pride in their neighborhood by inviting downtown sponsor partners to participate in a beatification day, where employees plant flowers and shrubs in planters along Washington Street, in addition to participating in a downtown clean-up effort.

Lemp Park BeautificationStarting in May, the Downtown Committee was contracted for maintenance services at M. Lemp Park, a green space at the corner of Fayette and Warren Streets. The park, established in 2010, has emerged as a community symbol for redevelopment. Named for M. Lemp Jewelers across the street, the park is a tribute to the 125-year-old business, located downtown since 1890.

50/50 Program ContinuesThe Downtown Committee and the City of Syracuse participate in a cost-sharing agreement for streetscape maintenance items for the central business district. Over the last year, 17 new trees were planted and stumps were removed. The Downtown Committee also laid new bricks to improve the sidewalks in Armory Square as part of this program.

On the left, Big Red, our streetsweeper of yesteryear, was in service in the 1980s.

To the right, the big yellow van was a

familiar sight around Downtown Syracuse

during the late 1970s.

Equipment ThroughThe Years

1978

1984

Security The Downtown Committee Security staff proactively addresses quality of life concerns to maintain downtown’s status as one of the safest neighborhoods to live, work, play and visit. The strong partnership between Downtown Security staff and the Syracuse Police Department allows for collaboration to address public safety and quality of life concerns within the central business district. Downtown Committee Security officers act as a liaison between the business community and the Syracuse Police Department.

Downtown Security & Information CenterThe Downtown Security & Information Center is centrally located in the Galleries at 440 South Warren Street. Here, visitors will find Downtown Committee Security officers and Syracuse Police officers assigned to the central business district, as well as information about Downtown Syracuse.

423-HELPDowntown residents, employees and visitors are encouraged to call 423-HELP for prompt response to quality of life concerns. The calls go directly to the Downtown Security & Information Center. If it’s after regular business hours, calls are forwarded directly to the Syracuse Police Department Officer on duty. In the 2014-2015 fiscal year, Downtown Security staff responded to 1,500 calls.

423-HELPDowntown Security Center

(4357)In an emergency, call 911

www.downtownsyracuse.com

Security Camera InstallationTo maintain Downtown’s status as one of the safest neighborhoods in Syracuse - especially with the high level of financial investment in the city center - the Downtown Committee, in partnership with Assemblyman William Magnarelli, installed ten security cameras this summer. The cameras, installed in the areas with high population concentrations, are wired into the existing Syracuse Police Department camera network. The cameras are mounted on existing lampposts and traffic poles.

Support for the cameras was provided in part by a $78,868 grant secured by Assemblyman William Magnarelli. The Downtown Committee owns the cameras and pays for maintenance to ensure their continued operation.

• 70% feel safe in downtown all or most of the time• 59% felt cameras would enhance their or their visitors’ sense of

safety• 85% felt cameras were a viable tool to assist in downtown

police efforts

Survey Says...

Security Camera Locations The yellow indicates where security cameras were installed.

Partnership HistoryThe relationship between the Downtown Committee Security staff and Syracuse Police Department dates back to the creation of the Downtown Committee Security Program in 1995. Today, Syracuse Police officers and Downtown Committee Security officers patrol downtown daily. Their offices are based in the Downtown Security and Information Center at 440 South Warren Street.

Syracuse Police Officers ride bicycles donated by the Downtown Committee, Circa Early 1980s

Personal Safety Seminars Available to all downtown businesses and employees, Downtown Security officers cover basic safety strategies to ensure all employees feel safe in their downtown surroundings, or any other environment they find themselves in.

Above: Director of Security Tom Campanie, and Security Officers Bruno Daniele and Gary Peak walk Armory Square, Present-Day

Downtown Task Force The Downtown Committee and a number of community partners have formed a new task force to explore opportunities to improve effectiveness of social service delivery and address quality of life concerns. The Downtown Task Force also includes the City of Syracuse, and service providers from Onondaga County, the Samaritan Center, Catholic Charities of Onondaga County, Salvation Army, Hutchings Psychiatric Center, My Father’s Kitchen, the Rescue Mission and Onondaga Case Management. The Task Force works together to address issues associated with homelessness, substance abuse and mental illness.

Early 1980s

2015

Members of the Task Force coordinate to meet at least once a month in areas around downtown to talk about ways they can effectively work together to address quality of life concerns.

The patches are a symbol of the partnership, today.

Patty Miller (right) is often the first friendly face you see at the Downtown Security & Information Center.

2015

2015

Accessibility The critical infrastructure issues associated with the elevated portion of Interstate 81 provide our community with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to design a transportation system that better serves the needs of our community and will enhance our overall economic vitality. The Downtown Committee continues to work with the State Department of Transportation as it evaluates the social, economic and environmental impacts associated with the alternatives presented for the future of Interstate 81.

Stre

et L

evel

Opt

ion

Viad

uct O

ptio

n

TheProblem

The Inside Scoop!

*Other options besides the street level and viaduct concepts have not been recommended for further study by NYSDOT and are not included here.

Property Value

Downtown

Viaduct

University Hill

Lost Property Value

TheOpportunity

TheValue

$3.3 Million in Lost Taxes Annually.

7 Acres Translates to Hundreds of Thousands of Square Feet

of New Development.

Limited Downtown Cultural Growth...fewer new restaurants, retail & entertainment.

Displaced Residents, Businesses & Employees.

Limited Residential Development Opportunities.

12-40 Destroyed Downtown Buildings... some prominent historic sites,

eroding downtown’s cultural fabric.

Redensification of our Urban Fabric... prominent historic sites preserved.

Erased Development Opportunities... In fact, more dead space will be created for the highway to meet federal regulations.

Long Project Scope, resulting in disrupted traffic flow to downtown.

Premium RetailersNew RestaurantsAdditional Office SpacesNew Residential Units

LOSS

LOSS

LOSS

Potential $5.4 Million of New Taxes Generated Annually.GAIN

GAIN

GAIN

LOSS

Just thinking out loud here... buthow will we make up the tax dollars?

That’s a problem, considering the current downtown occupancy rate is 99%.

7 Acres of New Development Opportunities.

Phased construction means less disruption to commerce, property &

business owners.

Hundreds of Thousands of Square Feet of New Space... Consider the possibilities!!

Hold on... won’t downtown businesses be affected ?! Several years is not a weekend project!

Green Public SpacesBlocks of Bike PathsMiles of Walkable Space

. . . And a chance to repair the damage of the past.

+

_

Which Would You Choose?Viaduct is just about moving people quickly through the city.Street Level is about getting people into the city easily to live, work & play.

To download this publication, go to downtownsyracuse.com

I-81:The Inside ScoopIn March, the Downtown Committee released I81: The Inside Scoop, an infographic designed to take the complex dialogue around the future of Interstate 81 and present it in a simplified format for those who may not be as familiar with the conversation as it relates to ongoing revitalization in Downtown Syracuse. The easy-to-understand educational tool outlined the impacts associated with the Community Grid Alternative (formerly known as the Street Level Option) and building a new Viaduct, two options recommended by the New York State Department of Transportation for further study in its Draft Scoping Document.

The Downtown Committee’s Goals for the Future of I-81:• Restore connections to Downtown Syracuse and University Hill neighborhoods by eliminating physical and visual barriers.• Create a vibrant, new neighborhood that improves the quality of life for all who live, work, and visit our community.• Disperse traffic onto multiple routes by ensuring this is not a one-road solution to present a functional, safe and efficient solution for all.• Generate tax revenue for the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County to ensure long-term sustainability.

Financial Report

Budgeted Income & Expense for July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015

Total:

Total Income:

$1,104,303

Special Assessment

Miscellaneous

Interest Income

Transportation

Grants

Events

$824,500

$128,652

$110,500

$32,374

$6,387

$1,890

$253,102

$223,575

$197,600

$101,500

$158,900

$72,894

$64,358

$32,374

Administration Marketing

Environnmental Maintenance

Security

Economic Development

Events

Transportation

Grants

Total Expenses:

Total: $1,104,303

Parking

Parking InformationThe Downtown Committee is in the process of updating its inventory of all public parking options throughout Downtown Syracuse. Brochures are updated as new information is obtained. Look for a current brochure on the Downtown Committee’s website, www.downtownsyraucse.com. Printed versions may be picked up at our 115 West Fayette Street office, our Downtown Information & Security Center at 440 South Warren Street, or mailed upon request.

It’s imperative that Downtown Syracuse has sufficient parking to support expanding businesses and demographics, as new businesses and people continue to move downtown. The Downtown Committee maintains up-to-date parking information available for the public to ensure parking information can be easily found.

Below: Jake Schrader, member of the Downtown Committee Parking staff, keeps things running smoothly at the National Grid Parking Lot, during the popular Taste of Syracuse Festival, 2015.

The Downtown Committee operates two parking lots for events:• One Herald Place, located at the intersection of North Clinton Street and Herald Place;• The National Grid Lot, located across from Dinosaur Bar-B-Que on North Franklin Street

Financial Report

23%

20%

18%

14%

9%

7%

6%3%

Total Expenses

Environmental Maintenance

Administration

Marketing

Security

Economic Development

Events

Transportation

Grants

40th Anniversary Celebration2015 holds very special meaning for the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc. Established in 1975, this year marks our 40th Anniversary. We are celebrating by shining a spotlight on our property owners and downtown businesses, retail shops, residential housing, restaurants, cultural institutions and hospitality services because you are what makes Downtown Syracuse shine so bright!

The Downtown Committee is celebrating downtown’s rebirth, redevelopment, history and accomplishments as seen through your eyes.

Each month, look for a different theme related to downtown’s continued evolution across our website and social media platforms.

Please join along with us as we continue tohighlight the accomplishments that have fueled a resurgence in Downtown Syracuse.

#WaybackWednesdayEvery Wednesday, the Downtown Committee encourages you to turn back the clock, and the pages in your history books. Find out what happened in Downtown Syracuse on this particular day in history.

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#FridayFeverThe Downtown Committee has got you covered as you look forward to the weekend. Every week, we preview the events you won’t want to miss.

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#TuesdayTalksLook forward to reading a fresh perspective from a different downtown figure every Tuesday. Learn insights from someone who has played a significant role in Downtown’s continued revitalization efforts, and hear about their vision for the future. T

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#MondayMemories, #GoodNewsMondayEvery Monday, take a trip down Memory Lane. Share your favorite memories made in Downtown Syracuse. If you had a really great experience downtown recently, tell us about that too!

#ThrowbackThursdayCatch a glimpse of the past in iconic Downtown Syracuse pictures, posted on the Downtown Committee’s Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages.

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OFFICERSChair: James V. Breuer, President, Hueber-Breuer ConstructionVice Chair: Anthony Fiorito, President, Partnership PropertiesSecretary: Robert Doucette, President, Armory Development & Management; Partner, Paramount Realty GroupTreasurer: Brian Howard, Senior Vice President & Market Manager, Key Private Bank

DIRECTORSTimothy Carroll, Director of Mayoral Initiatives, City of SyracusePeter Dunn, President & CEO, CNY Community FoundationWilliam Fisher, Deputy County Executive, Onondaga CountyJo Anne Gagliano, President, edr CompaniesEdward Koolakian, Owner, Koolakian’s MenswearDonald Lemp, Owner, M. Lemp JewelersMelanie Littlejohn, Regional Executive: Energy Solution Services, National GridAndrew Maxwell, Director of Policy and Innovation, City of Syracuse David Nutting, CEO & Chairman, VIP StructuresGregg Tripoli, Executive Director, Onondaga Historical Association

EX OFFICIO MEMBERRobert M. Simpson, President, CenterState CEO

STAFFMerike L. Treier, Executive DirectorCharles J. McFadden, Director of OperationsLaurie Reed, Marketing DirectorTom Campanie, Director of SecurityAlice Maggiore, Communications Coordinator Bethany Holbrook, Economic Development & Marketing AssistantKristine Sherlock, Assistant to the Executive DirectorGary Peak, Security OfficerJohn Marcon, Security Officer Bruno Daniele, Security Officer David Kneer, Operations StaffKevin Stanard, Operations StaffJake Schrader, Parking StaffZach Schrader, Parking Staff

Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc.

Photo by Dongmin Shin

115 West Fayette StreetSyracuse, NY 13202Address Service Requested