Funding to replace a unique set of stairs is one of several park improvement projects up for consideration by Syracuse Common Councilors Monday. The city is requesting to borrow a total of $3.4 million to make the investments.
The Westminster Stairs were closed a few years ago due to their deteriorating and dangerous condition. The 178 steps ascend a few hundred feet through the trees from Euclid between Lancaster and Maryland Avenues in the University/Westcott area. It's clear they need repair. They are nearly 100 years old. Many of the steps are crumbling or missing. The city is hoping to replace the steps along with the stone walls and the railings.
It’s an ambitious and expensive project estimated to cost $3 million. Councilors are being asked to borrow $1.7 million, with the rest covered by a state grant and donations. Councilor Jimmy Monto acknowledged the challenge of replacing the stairs.
“The topography there is a problem," he said. "The cost of concrete. I mean, the excavation alone, like I think the $3 million is probably realistic. It's going to be expensive.”
Councilor Chol Majok said there's been plenty of support from residents.
“You can't say no to neighborhoods and people that are willing to maybe put in private money," he said.
"And at this point they're dangerous," said parks commissioner Syeisha Byrd. "We have them roped off, but we continue to watch on social media. People are still trying to use them.”
Resident Charlie Sam said the improvements are a thoughtful addition.
“I welcome the proposal that I heard to put benches up there. That's great," he said. "It's not just used for transit, but also people use it for exercise, climbing the stairs up and down.”
Despite neighborhood support and repeated requests from the Walsh administration last year, the project never made it to the agenda over councilor concerns about the cost. This year, two new councilors could provide the six votes needed.
They’re also being asked to borrow an additional $1.7 million for a series of other improvements at Burnet, Lipe Art, Homer Wheaton, and Kirk Parks.
- $200,000 for the Traveler’s Rest Abatement and Improvements Project; first phase at Kirk Park on the Onondaga Creekwalk and Onondaga Creek Parkway, to include materials, equipment, installation, engineering services, and related improvements to address accessibility, safety, drainage, environmental quality, and to remove harmful materials from the interior of the existing building.
- $450,000 for the Homer Wheaton Concession & Splashpad Capital Improvement Project; construction and installation of a new multi-use concession/restroom facility, splashpad equipment, and related site improvements.
- $300,000 for the Westside Pump Track project; development of a new pump track and commuter cyclist-focused recreation area which will expand park use, support youth recreation, and improve pathways, site grading, drainage, landscaping, lighting, fencing, and public art.
- $750,000 for general parks facilities improvements.
