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The second phase of the East Adams neighborhood transformation in Syracuse's 15th Ward has commenced, marking a significant step in revitalizing the area. The Syracuse Housing Authority, in partnership with McCormack Baron Salazar, initiated remediation work on Monday (November 10) at the corner of Burt and State Streets. The site, previously used for various industrial purposes, is classified as a "brownfield" due to potential contamination from past developments. The cleanup is essential before constructing 125 new affordable senior housing units.
According to CNY Central, the remediation involves removing petroleum-impacted soils and elevated levels of lead and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The work is expected to continue through the winter, with vertical construction anticipated to start in early 2026. This effort is part of the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative, aimed at transforming one of the nation's poorest zip codes.
The project is a collaborative effort between the Syracuse Housing Authority, McCormack Baron Salazar, and other community partners, including Blueprint 15 and the City of Syracuse. It seeks to reconnect neighborhoods, stimulate investment, and create pathways out of poverty by providing educational, economic, and health opportunities for residents.
The Syracuse.com reports that the cleanup is funded by $3.7 million from the state's Brownfield tax credit program and $3.5 million from a federal grant. Developers plan to add a vapor mitigation system to the new building to ensure residents' safety. The entire transformation project is part of a larger $1 billion plan to replace the I-81 viaduct and build 1,351 new housing units.
The East Adams Neighborhood Transformation aims to address the historical impacts of the I-81 construction, which disrupted the once-thriving black community in the 15th Ward. The project reflects the community's desire for a safe, healthy, and prosperous neighborhood, offering the same opportunities as other areas in Syracuse.