Time is running out for the public to weigh in on about a dozen preliminary plans aimed at reshaping Syracuse’s lakefront. An online survey closes at the end of the day Tuesday.
The roughly $100 million worth of projects range from smaller, streetscape upgrades to a $1.6 million Lake Lounge Trailhead for public access along the south shore of Onondaga Lake. City Planner Owen Kerney they’re focused on tying together existing features and facilities while also introducing projects that protect natural resources, expand waterfront access, and create recreational opportunities.
"Between the Loop the Lake Trail, NBT Bank Stadium, the Inner Harbor, the Creekwalk, and a variety of other amenities that are in this area, what we are doing is taking a comprehensive approach to determining what are the projects that the city, the county, with coordination from New York State could do to set the stage for future investment," Kerney said.
Development of the Lakefront area has languished for decades with the exception of scattered, stand-alone projects. Kerney says this wholistic approach with a deliberate process is reason for optimism.
"It's research and reconnaissance, project development, policy development, and that all comes together in a plan. We will continue the public engagement process."
Kerney says planners will use that input to refine the projects for a draft by this summer. A final version will require approval by city and county lawmakers.
You can see the project and take the survey here. It’s open until 5:00 pm Tuesday.
