Streetscape & Alleyway Improvement Projects Get Underway

The City of Hornell hosted an Open House meeting at the Arts Center on February 27, 2024 to discuss the  Streetscapes, Alleyways, Wayfinding and Public Art project, which begins construction this week. Mayor John Buckley, along with Scott Baker, Project Manager for C.P. Ward Inc., and consultants Andrew Smilinich and Doug McCord from LaBella Associates, presented project details to an audience of approximately 50-60 attendees, which included a strong representation from the local business community.

The project entails renovation and beautification of the City’s downtown that includes sidewalk replacement, additional electric, public art installation, addition of benches, lighting enhancements, and tree planting, that are more conducive to beautifying the downtown area.

Key takeaways from the meeting were:

1. The project is scheduled to begin immediately and is slated for completion before the end of the calendar year.
2. To minimize disruptions to businesses and residents, replacements will occur in four phases, with construction completion anticipated in each phase before proceeding to the next.
3. C.P. Ward Inc. will collaborate with all affected businesses to ensure consistent customer access. Businesses will remain accessible with minimal exceptions.
4. For safety reasons, parking in construction areas will be restricted, and efforts will be made to make handicap parking available in adjacent areas not currently under construction.
5. Diagonal parking on Main St will remain following project completion, with no loss of parking spaces expected.
6. There will be no loss of sidewalk footage. The curbing will remain in place in its current location. Bump outs are planned at the Church and Seneca Street intersections to make for safer and improved pedestrian crossing.

Mayor Buckley emphasized the significance of the project, stating, “It’s not often municipalities have the opportunity to replace sidewalks. This project will reshape, beautify, and improve our downtown and its accessibility. We appreciate all that C.P. Ward Inc. is doing to minimize the disruption. We also appreciate the patience and cooperation of residents and business owners during construction. We’re excited for the improvements and look forward to seeing the finished product.”

Residents are encouraged to stay informed on project updates by visiting the City Planner’s page at https://www.cityofhornell.com/planning-office and view storyboards of the project’s timeline. Full-size boards can also be viewed during business hours in the City Hall lobby.