City moves forward with ambitious housing redevelopment plan

During a recent government meeting, key discussions centered around the city's comprehensive plan update and a proposed property exchange involving the Syracuse Housing Authority (SHA).

Owen Kearney, Deputy Commissioner for Planning and Sustainability, presented an agreement with Environmental Design and Research (EDR) to initiate Phase 1 of the comprehensive plan update. Following a competitive request for proposals (RFP) process, EDR was selected after interviews conducted in October. Kearney expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the importance of updating the comprehensive plan.

The meeting also addressed items related to property management and development. A significant proposal involved the disposal of city-owned property at 1025 Sunny Crest, previously the Eastwood Junior High School and now functioning as the Eastwood Heights Apartment Complex. The property, managed by SHA since 1989, is set for renovation in partnership with a private sector entity. The plan includes adding four new housing units to the former gymnasium, enhancing the living conditions for current and future residents.

Deputy Mayor Sharon Owens clarified that the proposal includes a property swap between the city and SHA. This exchange is part of a broader initiative involving the East Adam project, which aims to establish the Children Rising Center on a parcel known as Latimer Terrace. The swap is intended to facilitate the development while ensuring the housing authority can proceed without financial burdens that could hinder the renovation project.

The council plans to hold a committee meeting to further discuss these proposals and their implications for the community.