https://www.uticaod.com/news/20190519/its-that-bad-ilion-officials-mull-duofold-sites-future
From: David Murray Sent: Sunday, May 19, 2019 8:30 AM To: Brian Lamica; ilion@ilionny.com; marijo@ilionny.com; Wendy Penny Cc: TELEGRAM NEWS; odvalley@uticaod.com Subject:
This is 14 acres in the heart of the village. A village Master plan must be developed and voted on via referendum before proceeding foreword with any plans of development.
Many residents remember urban renewal projects of the 70's and how they negatively affected the nostalgia and downtown of the village; we must not repeat mistakes. This is a great opportunity to expand and revitalize downtown and the village. The IDA, who is leading efforts on marketing and potential cleanup states, "it will be the market that decides how it is developed. True to an extent, but the market can be also enticed and or led, with great opportunities and assets.
Location, is premium here, along the canal which is being revitalized. Route 5s, 5, 51 and the Thruway all offer excellent transportation prospect's. Minutes from Herkimer and Utica also should be valuable to potential developers. Industry and or business should not be the exclusive beneficiaries of this site. It is the Village and our residents who must also benefit, and have a say in how these 14 acres are to be utilized. Many municipalities are strategically planning redevelopment of their communities and downtowns, incorporating many factors such as green and quite space, recreation, affordable housing, along with retail and business.
NYS is offering many competitive grants to communities who submit comprehensive plans for renewal and development of their downtowns and Canal corridor. The Village of Ilion would be wise to hire professional developers, planners, and engineers to take advantage of these financial opportunities. $10 million for Downtown Revitalization and potential millions more in water front redevelopment grants and loans.
It took close to two decades to get to this point of potential development and renewal, lets not squander the opportunity with haste, and poor planning.
David Murray
13 Grove street
Ilion
Comments