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The Syracuse City Common Council passed a slew of bills related to housing development, amending previous bills that sold city-owned land to construct residential housing at its Monday regular meeting.

One bill stated that the city will enter an agreement with the Syracuse Economic Development Corporation to administer $11 million in Empire State Development funds. The money will be used to build 288 multi-family apartments and owner-occupied townhomes — phase one of the redevelopment.

First District Councilor Marty Nave stressed the importance of these bills, calling the entire process a “long journey,” saying it will create a new mixed-income community in Syracuse’s Westside neighborhood.

The city-owned housing units on South Wilbur Avenue, the former Syracuse Developmental Center site, were previously sold to the Albanese Organization.

In 2022, the land was expected to be constructed into over 500 residential units, with a total cost of $20,000 per residential unit after approval and construction. However, six new bills presented today amend the original proposal.

In 2023, the city approved a $26.4 million budget to demolish the SDC. During Monday’s meeting, the council amended the previous budget, with demolition costs capped at $11.5 million.

The council passed another bill allocating $11.5 million for water and sewer service lines, roads, sidewalks, trees and street lights. These costs were “significantly lower than estimated,” the bill stated.

In a fourth related bill, the council authorized the issuance and sale of bonds for the first two phases of the residential unit building site. These phases include the construction inspection of roads and utilities.

The councilors also approved $18.8 million in funding for the inspection.

Empire State Development and the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program will reimburse excess funds to any “extent possible,” according to the bill. A $32,985,000 budget was approved for the entire project.

The bill also amended the original sale’s portion of land to remain owned by Syracuse for the intended expansion of the Rosamond Gifford Zoo.

Councilors said the city began seizing this property over five years ago under Mayor Ben Walsh as part of an effort to increase affordable housing options.

“It wasn’t easy. It involved some spirited debate between myself and the deputy mayor, animated debate by the way,” Nave said. “It’s the best part of government, is how we all pull together and we do something positive for the city of Syracuse.”

The council also discussed a bill to impose a temporary pause on speed zone fines after thirteen new cameras were installed throughout the city without involvement from the community.

Councilor-at-large Chol Majok said the city’s approach was concerning.

“The government is not in the business to make profit, nor is it in the business to trick people, either,” Majok said.

After discussion and review, the bill was withdrawn.

Other business:

• A bill that changes zoning ordinances passed despite opposition from 3rd district Councilor Corey J. Williams, who said he had “outstanding concerns.” This bill passed with 7 votes in favor and 2 votes against.
• The council passed a bill to install an Honorary Street Sign where Temple Street and Midland Avenue intersect.

Published on October 28, 2025 at 12:55 am