Appendix A Existing Conditions Report

Comprehensive Plan

City of Syracuse

2025

Live Learn
Prepared by the

Work Play

SyracuseOnondaga County Planning Agency

October 2003

The City of Syracuse is a great place to live, learn, work & play

TABLE OF CONTENTS Page i ii 1 2 4 8 11 15 17 20 26 29 34 38 43 46

Table of Contents List of Maps and Tables I. II. III. IV. FOREWORD: The City of Syracuse The Communitys Heritage, Trends and Future Vision SYRACUSE HISTORY AT A GLANCE COMMUNITY PROFILE OF SYRACUSE ASSETS A. Natural Environment B. Civic Infrastructure 1. Parks, Recreation & Community Facilities 2. Schools 3. Public Safety Linear Infrastructure 1. Transportation 2. Water Supply 3. Wastewater System

C.

V.

TRENDS A. Economy B. C. D. Population Fiscal Land Use

MAPS AND TABLES Page Onondaga County, New York 4 6 TNT Planning Areas (Tomorrows Neighborhoods Today) Strategic Areas and Corridors 7 Syracuse Topography 8 Wetlands and Floodplains 9 Parks and Open Space 11 Libraries and Community Centers 13 Syracuse Educational Facilities 15 Public Safety Facilities 17 Regional Transportation Network 20 Functional Classification 22 Truck Routes 22 Pavement Ratings 23 Bridge Ratings 23 Public Water Supply 26 Treatment Plant Service Areas 29 Age of Public Wastewater System 31 Empire and Empowerment Zones 36 Population Density 38 Change in Median Household Income by Census Tract:1990-2000 41 Tax Exempt Properties 45 Generalized Land Use 46 Generalized Zoning 47 Housing Vacancy Rate 48 Strategic Areas and Corridors 50 Syracuse Averages City Parks System Means of Transportation to Work: Workers 16 and over Onondaga County Employment By Industry Percentage of County Population Living in the City of Syracuse Population in Onondaga County Household Characteristics: City versus County Ethnicity in Syracuse and Suburbs Age Demographics: City of Syracuse Total Syracuse City School District Enrollment by Year General City Budget Revenues and Expenditures Capital Project Financing Land Use Acreage City of Syracuse Housing Profile 8 11 23 32 36 37 37 38 38 39 41 42 44 45

Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map Map

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table Table

All Photos courtesy of Chuck Wainwright or the City of Syracuse, unless noted.

I. Foreword: The City of Syracuse - The Communitys Heritage, Trends, and Future Vision The Comprehensive Plan for the City of Syracuse will define the communitys vision for the next several decades. The Plan will be comprehensive, taking into account the Citys assets and responsibilities for the built and natural environment. The Plan will address the vision, goals and policies, and strategic actions for the entire City. The purpose of this Existing Conditions Report is to provide an overview of City assets and a broad understanding of regional and City economic, demographic and land use trends. A companion document will outline the community issues identified by four working committees at a workshop conducted on June 12, 2003. The working committees focused on the topics of Economic Growth (Work), Land Use & Transportation (Place), Infrastructure & Environment (Government), and Cultural, Historic and Recreation Resources (People, Play and Visitors). The City of Syracuse regulates land use and development patterns and guides the preservation of historic and architectural heritage reinforcing the urban fabric with landmark buildings and neighborhood patterns. The City of Syracuse is responsible for the stewardship of the natural environment and the built environment that supports its economy and residential neighborhoods. Thornden Park Pool The City provides, maintains and finances civic infrastructure for its citizensschools and libraries, parks and open space, recreation and community centersand transportation infrastructureroads and bridges, a water supply system, sewers, and storm water drainage. These assets structure the Citys urban fabric and the aesthetic character of its neighborhoods. The vision for the future of Syracuse will be drawn from the Citys regional setting, its natural assets, as well as its civic and transportation infrastructure. Economic, demographic and social trends define current and future needs and values of residents, business, and institutions. Syracuse has a rich history and architectural heritage and is almost fully developed. Still, the City must respond to a changing global and regional economy and technology, as well as to state and federal capital investments and regulation. Community values that shape this vision will affect policy decisions and capital investment for decades. The Syracuse of the future will be built on the City of today and in many ways will look like the City of today. But the quality of life for residents and the investment climate for business and institutions will be shaped by the communitys vision and values and the constantly changing global economy and technology.

Onondaga Creekwalk

This report presents Syracuses regional setting, an inventory of assets in the natural and built environment, and civic involvement. Economic and demographic trends and changing patterns of land use, housing and development, and fiscal climate are the factors that will shape the Citys future.

II. SYRACUSE HISTORY AT A GLANCE

The Canal Era - Construction of the Erie Canal in the 1820's and the railroads during the 1830's accelerated business, commerce and industrial expansion around Geddes, Salina and other population centers in what would become metropolitan Syracuse. 1848 Syracuse Incorporates as a City - The first City Hall was built in 1861 on Erie Canal at Clinton Street Montgomery Street as the seat of local Source: Erie Canal Museum government. Post Civil War The Erie Canal and Clinton Square area was a center of markets, commerce and entertainment. During the mid-to-late 1800's, factories and industrial expansion spread west and northwest along South Geddes Street, Fayette Street, Salina and Wolf streets, and the Franklin Square area. Late 1800's and Early 1900's Clinton Square becomes a public park, Salina Street becomes more of a retail area, and industry begins shifting out from Downtown. Hanover Square area becomes a commercial core with banks, offices, newspaper establishments and retail stores. Syracuse University is established in 1870 on "the hill". In 1889 a new City Hall was built at its present location. The City operates 37 schools by 1900. 1906 - The City Parks Commission was formed overseeing more than 500 acres of parks by 1916. In 1914 the first Planning Commission was appointed. During World War I, the City Parks Department was created. 1919 - "City Planning for Syracuse" was published after four years of work by the Planning Commission. The 1919 Plan laid the foundation for future street improvements, subdivisions, park development and local aerodromes. Syracuse City Hall Source: Erie Canal Museum The Great Depression and the 1930's Railroads were removed from Downtown Syracuse streets, the automobile era is in full swing. Park development continues assisted by the WPA program and by 1940 the City owns 145 parks over 1,100 acres. World War II and Post War Suburban Development - An influx of veterans after the war expands higher education at Syracuse University and creates local housing needs. The suburbs around the City begin to develop as the government encourages new housing construction. During the 1950's the "flight" to the suburbs begins. The Interstate System - The creation of the interstate highway system changes the face of Syracuse replacing the railroads as a major means of transportation. Suburban development accelerates outside of the City into neighboring towns and villages. Jobs and affluence relocate to the suburbs.

1960's Urban Renewal - Government policies of the 1960's promote the ideals of the "Great Society". However, industries and jobs continue to leave the City for the suburbs leaving declining neighborhoods in the wake of the exodus of people and capital. Urban Renewal and interstate highway construction clears vast parts of once vibrant neighborhoods. 1970's Armory Square and Historic Preservation - Revitalization of Armory Square begins as interest in saving parts of the City heightens. Major retailers and family-owned stores pull out of Downtown for area shopping centers and regional malls. MONY (Mutual of New York) plaza is Armory Square constructed and new service sector investments appear Downtown. 1980's Downtown Transforms from a Retail to a Service Center - Armory Square listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1984 and redevelopment of the old warehouse district expands. "The Galleries" is built in response to suburban malls, but retailing never truly redevelops Downtown. Job growth and expansion in the University Hill area and Downtown continues as the service sector of the economy and institutional land use in the City grows, while manufacturing and retailing becomes entrenched in the suburbs. 1990's Planning Initiatives TNT(Tomorrows Neighborhoods Today), FOCUS (Forging Our Communitys United Strengths), the Onondaga County Settlement Plan and other initiatives emphasize reinvestment in the City and its neighborhoods as well as celebrating local heritage. Renewed interest in the redevelopment of the Onondaga Lakefront takes place with public investment in the Inner Harbor area and other locations in the City. The City reawakens to its potential. 2000-2003 New Planning ERA - A new planning era begins as the City moves forward with a vision for the future.

View of Syracuse from Onondaga Lake Shoreline

III. COMMUNITY PROFILE OF SYRACUSE Geography The City of Syracuse is located in Onondaga County (Map 1), in the geographic center of New York State. The City of Syracuse is the regions major metropolitan center. It has been appropriately called the Crossroads of New York State, due to its central location and as the intersection of the busy New York State Thruway and Interstate Syracuse, New York Highway 81 just north of the City. The City of Syracuse encompasses 26 square miles, with varied terrain of rolling hills and flat plains, streams and lakes. From the Syracuse Inner Harbor and Onondaga Lake, through the deepwater port of Oswego and the New York State Canal System, access is provided from the City to the Great Lakes and overseas.

Onondaga County, New York

The City of Syracuse is the 5th largest City in New York State in terms of population, home to N residents ac147,306i cording to the 2000 US Census. More than 136 million people live within a 750-mile radius of Map 1 Source: SOCPA (Syracuse-Onondaga County Planning Agency) Syracuse, including over 50% of the population of Canada and the United States. Economic Center The story of Syracuse is intimately intertwined with the development of industry and commerce. While Syracuse has often been identified as The City That Salt Built, it was never solely reliant on the salt industry for its economic survival. The Canal, and later the railroads, established the City as an important transportation hub and this, in turn, attracted a diverse number of manufacturing and commercial interests.

Niagara Mohawk Building

The City is the heart of the Central New York region; Syracuses vitality reflects the economic strength of the entire region. Today, Syracuse is home to several major regional employers, including Niagara Mohawk A National Grid Company, Time Warner Cable, Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Loretto. The institutional presence of the colleges, universities and hospitals has also taken on a greater importance in the local economy, as the economy makes the transition to knowledge and technology base sectors. Long a source of national identity through its renowned athletics and academic reputation, Syracuse University - with a student body of 17,000, is also a major land use in the City and a major employer - employing more than 4,000 people. The College of Environmental Science and Forestry is also located immediately adjacent, sharing Syracuse Universitys campus. Syracuse University Campus State University of New York (SUNY) Upstate Medical University, a teaching hospital, is in fact the largest employer in Syracuse and Onondaga County with more than 5,000 employees. Together, along with Crouse, St. Josephs, and the Veterans Administration Hospitals, these institutions not only provide a stable means of employment for thousands of City and area residents but have also come to define the City itself as the regional center for health care and education. These successes have led to two new cooperative ventures on the University Hill - the Center of Excellence in Environmental Systems and the New York Indoor Environmental Quality Center. Cultural Entertainment Center Downtown Syracuse is the center of entertainment activity for the entire Central New York region. Downtown boasts dozens of restaurants, bars and taverns, and urban parks - including the new Clinton Square ice skating rink and site of music and cultural festivals throughout the summer and fall months. Downtown is also home to the historic Landmark Theater, Syracuse Symphony, War Memorial and Convention Center at OnCenter, Everson Museum, and the Museum of Science & Technology, featuring an IMAX theater. Armory, Franklin and Hanover Squares feature downtown living within walking distance of the areas Hanover Square major employers. Sports are also an important part of the Syracuse community. With its home at the 50,000-seat Carrier Dome, the Syracuse Orangemen claimed the NCAA championship in college basketball in 2003. Syracuse University athletics are joined by a host of professional and semi-professional sporting teams, including the Syracuse SkyChiefs AAA baseball team, the Syracuse Crunch Hockey League, and the Syracuse Salty Dogs, the Citys newest professional soccer franchise.

Syracuse Lakefront The City of Syracuse also has a waterfront Onondaga Lake, Onondaga Creek, and the New York State Canal System. Known as the Syracuse Lakefront, this area at the south shore of Onondaga Lake is being reclaimed and revitalized from former salt manufacturing sheds, petroleum Syracuse Inner Harbor terminals and industrial uses to a vibrant, mixed-use playground for residents and visitors alike to enjoy in Syracuse. The former Barge Canal terminal is being transformed into a public promenade, a variety of new urban housing options are being created, the super-regionalii shopping mall, Carousel Center, is slated to become DestiNY USA, a tourism and shopping destination proposed to dramatically change the face of the Lakefront into a major tourism destination. Neighborhoods The City boasts of more than twenty unique neighborhoods, each with its own cultural flavor, which is embraced and celebrated by its residents and businesses. An extensive system of schools, playgrounds and over 1,000 acres of parkland and open space anchor these neighborhoods. With historic homes designed by renowned architects such as Ward Wellington Ward, Gustav Stickley, and Archimedes Russell, the City has a rich variety of Sedgwick Neighborhood historic homes, in varying architectural styles. Syracuse has a rich history of citizen participation and neighborhood organizing aimed at directing City services and funding, organizing community activities and protecting quality of life of TNT Planning Areas Syracuse neighbors throughout the City. Syracuse Community Development activities are often influenced by neighborhood organizations such as the City sponsored Tomorrows Neighborhoods Today (TNT) program. Syracuse is grouped into 8 planning areas through the Citys Tomorrows Neighborhoods Today (TNT) program, shown on Map 2. The City is actively working with neighborhood groups all over the City in preparing goals, as well as neighborhood plans and strategies to preserve and protect the Citys assets and strengthen pride in its neighborhoods.

Map 2 Source: SOCPA

Strategic Areas The City of Syracuse is historically and logically comprised of a number of major commercial and institutional districts, neighborhoods and corridors. Map 3 represents those areas, known for the purposes of this Plan as Strategic Areas and Corridors. The major economic nodes the Lakefront Development Area, Downtown Syracuse, University Hill, and the Interchange District hold the highest concentrations of commercial activity, or potential for new commercial activity. The corridors include certain roadways that have a significant presence, impact and function in the City, such as interstate highways, commercial corridors or even waterways. Neighborhoods, collectively identified, are the cornerstone of the urban fabric of the City of Syracuse, and house the people of Syracuse. High quality of life in Syracuse neighborhoods is critical to the success of the entire City, and beyond.

Strategic Areas and Corridors

These Strategic Areas have been identified as the building blocks of our City. The Existing Conditions Report examines the history, infrastructure and trends related to these areas which make up the City of Syracuse.

Map 3 Source: City of Syracuse, Clough-Harbour LLP

i Source: United States Bureau of the Census; 2000 Census of Population and Households SF-1 Data Set. Note, SF-3 sample data indicates a population of 147,326. ii Source: Shopping Center Appraisal and Analysis. Vernor & Rabinski, Appraisal Institute.

IV.A. ASSETS: Natural Environment

Syracuse Averages
Annual Snowfall: 112 Annual Rainfall: 36

Climate Known mostly for its snowfall, the City of Syracuse prides itself for its distinct fourseason climate. Syracuses temperate climate provides a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. (Table 1) Despite the occasional heavy snow or windstorm, the area remains relatively free of major weather events such as hurricanes, tornadoes or significant flooding.

Annual July Sun: 65% July High Temp: 82F Jan Low Temp: 14F
Table 1

Topography The Central New York area is a region of rolling hills, flat plains, lakes and streams. The City of Syracuse is located on a rise at the southern end of Onondaga Lake. Topographic features are largely responsible for the areas present day development pattern and transportation routes, such as the Erie Canal and our current highway system (Map 4). Most of the City of Syracuse is characterized as the Hill & Valley Region, separating the Syracuse Topography Ontario Lowlands to the north and the Allegheny Uplands to the south. Numerous water bodies rolling hills, and drumlins point to the glacial history of much of the Northeast United States. The gently rolling terrain stretches north of the City for 30 miles, where it meets Lake Ontario. The Finger Lakes begin 20 miles to the southwest and Oneida Lake is 8 miles northeast. City altitude ranges from 364 to 681 feet, while approximately five miles south of Syracuse, the hills mount to about 1,500 feet. Map 4 Immediately to the west, the terrain is rolling and elevated 500 to 800 feet above mean sea level. Flood Plains & Wetlands While residents of most areas of Syracuse generally do not need to be concerned about hazards associated with severe floods, there are some areas in the City, which may be flooded should the right mix of weather conditions prevail. In 1981, the Federal Emergency Management Agency

(FEMA) completed studies of the City of Syracuses watercourses and issued maps, which define the flood hazard areas in the City.

Wetlands and Floodplains

These areas are associated with Onondaga Creek, Harbor Brook, Meadow Brook, Ley Creek and Onondaga Lake and their respective drainage basins. The Army Corps of Engineers largely mitigated historic flooding of Onondaga Creek in the 1950s by channelizing the Creek and other measures. Map 5 depicts the FEMA 50- and 100-year floodplains. These maps are used by the insurance industry regularly in requiring flood insurance, as well as by governmental entities in issuing environmental permits and approvals.

Also on the map are New York State Department of Environmental Conservation designated wetlands found in the City - principally along the shores of Onondaga Lake, along portions of Erie Boulevard, and at Websters Pond. Wetlands are protected by New York State law, making it difficult to build on these sites without mitigating potential impacts resulting from any disturbance to the property. Air Quality Air quality is important not only to the health of residents but to economic development potential and federal funding for transportation projects. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Federal Environmental Protection Agency monitor air quality, particularly levels of ozone and carbon monoxide throughout the region. The Syracuse Metropolitan Statistical Area (Onondaga, Oswego and Madison Counties) has been designated an attainment area for ozone, meaning that ozone does not pose an air quality threat. Over a decade ago, carbon monoxide levels slightly exceeded designated limits. Since that time, carbon monoxide has been in conformance with applicable standards, though Onondaga County retains maintenance status designation for a period of 20 years, before that designation can be revised to attainment status. Vehicle exhaust can be a major source of ozone and carbon monoxide emissions. The State of New York, Onondaga County, City of Syracuse and the Central New York Regional Transportation Authority work together on

Map 5 Source: NYSDEC, FEMA

transportation system enhancements to ensure that federal air quality standards are met. Water Quality Syracuse is fortunate to have plenty of lakes and other water bodies in and around the City, and has one of the cleanest drinking water sources in the Country. Syracuse has a plentiful supply of safe, clean drinking water and nearby water bodies for recreation. It is also well known that Onondaga Lake and its Syracuse Inner Harbor tributaries have suffered from poor water quality due to pollution for many decades. However, the long-term impact of the Clean Water Act is resulting in cleaner water bodies. Though still used for stormwater management in some instances, Onondaga Creek, Onondaga Lake, Harbor Brook and other waterways are being revitalized and are again Onondaga Creek being looked at as community assets. Opportunities for providing open space, trails, and more waterfront activities are being investigated. Many municipalities and citizen organizations are investigating opportunities to rediscover the recreational opportunities of Onondaga Creek and the other waterways in Syracuse and Central New York, including boating, trails, and trailside economic opportunities. Findings: Syracuse has a varied topography of hills, valleys and water bodies, providing for unique scenery and numerous opportunities to take advantage of natural resources. Carbon monoxide levels are closely monitored in Syracuse. While levels are currently in attainment, efforts have been taken to reduce vehicle emissions through transportation system improvements. Developing attractive alternatives to car usage, promoting fuel-efficient vehicle use and improving public transportation can also help to prevent future air quality concerns. Syracuse benefits from waterways throughout the City. Unfortunately some of these waterways have been neglected, and are in need of water quality improvements and shoreline restoration efforts to be utilized for recreation.

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IV.B.1 ASSETS: Civic Infrastructure - Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities Syracuses Parks System is one of the Citys biggest assets. Parks and open spaces help define the character of the City and offer a unique variety of assets for the county and region. Many of Syracuses public parks have been in existence for up to a century. Existing Facilities Syracuse currently has 172 municipally owned and maintained parks, fields, inactive cemeteries, medians/traffic islands (most of which are landscaped and contribute to neighborhood greenspace), and natural areas. (See Map 6.) City of Syracuse parks account for approximately 61% of the total municipal park space in Onondaga Countyi. There are also Parks and Open Space several private open spaces (many owned by Syracuse University), cemeteries, as well as Onondaga County facilities including P&C Stadium, Rosamond Gifford Zoo, parts of the Meadowbrook and Harbor Brook Drainage Areas, and parts of Onondaga Lake Park located in the City. New York State also owns land along the NYS Barge Canal and Inner Harbor, now devoted to public access, including a portion of the Onondaga Creekwalk.
Onondaga Park

Syracuse Parks & Recreation This abundance of open space is even more apparent in the variety of parks and open space available in the City. The Department of Parks, Recreation and Youth Programs administers over 800 acres of park land in the City including ball fields, tennis and basketball courts, skating rinks, golf courses, swimming pools, playgrounds and playlots, an historic greenhouse, trails, and several community and senior centers throughout the City. (Table 2) The Department provides a variety of parks programs and special events in many of its parks for young and old, including in partnership with the Syracuse City School District, though limited by budget constraints.

Map 6 Source: SOCPA City Parks

City Parks System

Community Parks Neighborhood Parks Playlots/Fields/Courts Downtown Parks Open Space Areas/Cemeteries Natural Areas Medians/Traffic Islands Total # Parks
Table 2

9 25 20 16 7 5 90 172

Source: City of Syracuse Parks, Recreation & Youth Programs

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The Parks Department continues to significantly update its holdings and other government agencies and groups are also planning new facilities in the Syracuse area. The Department has completed a variety of park system improvements all over the City, with numerous projects included in the departments capital improvement plans. Trails Trail projects are increasingly important in park planning nationwide in recent years. The first legs of the Onondaga Creekwalk, a multi-use urban trail alongside Onondaga Creek have been in existence since the 1990s. The City owns approximately 27 acres of land containing the channel of Onondaga Creek that is now considered open space, but holds potential for reclamation as a citywide waterside promenade. New extensions of that waterside walkway are under varying degrees of planning, design and construction. Similarly, the NYS Canal Corporation is also leading an effort to develop an end-to-end walking/biking trail across the state along the Onondaga Creekwalk historic path of the Erie Canal. The Canalway Trail currently extends over 220 miles of the 524-mile canal system Syracuse is the most urban segment of the proposed trail route and the most difficult and costly segment to construct. Following a damaging Labor Day storm in 1998 which affected nearly 30,000 trees, the City prepared the Syracuse Urban Forest Master Plan: Guiding the Citys Forest Resources in the 21st Century. The plan contains information on the more than 890,000 trees in the Citys parks, streets and open spaces, and recommended goals for the preservation and enhancement of the Citys urban forest. Similarly, a comprehensive survey of monuments was conducted in 1996 for the City, noting the need for continuous monument restoration and protection. Maintenance & Operations Maintenance of City parkland, buildings, pools, and medians is handled cooperatively through the Parks and Public Works Departments. Tasks range from programming of community and senior centers, to special events, road maintenance and grass cutting more than 80 parks and other play spaces. Park staff performs security in public parks during the day and the Syracuse Police Schiller Swimming Pool Department mainly handles after-hours patrols. Funding for park maintenance and programming comes mainly through the Citys capital budget process, though the Department has received private donations for parks improvements, some in form of volunteer labor.

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Citizen Participation There are currently 10 parks associations, or Friends groups in the City as well as one Citywide parks and greenspace advocacy group. The Parks Department relies on and encourages associations to assist in park clean-up efforts, fundraising, provide workforce volunteers, and help create activities in parks.

Syracuse School Playground

Libraries & Community Facilities The City of Syracuse has a wealth of community facilities for public services, recreation and education. The Onondaga County Public Library (OCPL) system operates the Central Library, eight City branches, and two satellite libraries in community centers. The City of Syracuse contracts with Onondaga County for branch library services. Some funding is also received through the State, grants and private contributions. The main branch library for Onondaga County is located in Downtown Syracuse, in the Galleries of Syracuse.

Libraries and Community Centers

Map 7 Source: SOCPA

In addition to its acres of parkland, the City of Syracuse also operates and supports several community centers scattered throughout the City for residents of all ages. Community Centers offer summer programs, sports and other recreational activities, field trips, cultural programs and computer training for children. Senior centers are also operated in Syracuse, offering a variety of recreational, fitness and advocacy programs to service the communitys senior population. Nutritional programs are available at the senior centers.

Findings: The Parks System provides an invaluable resource for recreation, civic pride, community interaction, public events, and exercise.

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The large number of parks and recreation facilities are scattered throughout the City. Maintenance, security and capital costs are significant, while fiscal resources are limited. Park advocacy groups or associations provide invaluable resources to extend the capabilities of constrained parks staffers. The Department would like to have active associations in all parks or have individuals or groups act responsibly for assisting in smaller parks/medians/playlots. Funding is required for more comprehensive implementation of the Urban Forest Master Plan to protect the Citys prided urban trees, and protection of City monuments.

Source: City of Syracuse Recovery Action Program 2002. Department of Parks, Recreation & Youth Programs.

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IV.B.2 ASSETS: Civic Infrastructure Schools Syracuse prides itself on its wealth of educational institutions, from elementary schools to colleges and universities. The Central New York region has the third highest concentrations of students of higher education Schools are located in every in the countryi. neighborhood in Syracuse. Schools serve to educate the Citys children as well as enrich community life, provide neighborhood gathering spaces and add to each areas distinct identity. Syracuse Public Schools The Syracuse City School District (SCSD) has an enrollment of more than 22,000 students in 24 elementary schools, 6 middle schools, 4 senior high schools, and 2 vocational schools. (Map 8)

Frazer Elementary School

There are currently three charter schools in Syracuse. Charter schools, while public schools, are independent from typical academic regulation generally in exchange for greater autonomy and flexibility. Syracuse residents also take advantage of the approximately 20 religious and private schools in Onondaga County, including seven Catholic elementary schools in the City of Syracuse.

Syracuse Educational Facilities

Map 8 Source: SOCPA

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The City of Syracuse owns 38 instructional buildings, five support buildings and leases 9 additional buildings totaling approximately 5 million square feet. Half of all school buildings are more than 50 years old. The ability to modernize and maintain the Syracuse City School Districts buildings directly impacts the vitality of neighborhoods and urban families, and their recruiting efforts to attract new Dr. King Elementary Library businesses and residents to Syracuse neighborhoods. Recent estimates for the necessary renovation and modernization of all schools in the district total approximately $600 million. As a result of demographic changes as well as financial constraints, the Syracuse School District has been considering ways to accommodate the needs of a changing school district population. One option being considered is that of neighborhood schools. The current school busing plan designed to integrate the school district currently buses over 60% of its students. In addition, all Syracuse neighborhoods are becoming more ethnically diverse, thus potentially eliminating the need for planned integration, which still is not achieved in Porter Magnet School 11 of 40 schools in Syracuse under the current system. Consolidation of th Kindergarten through 8 grade together in schools has also been contemplated, in part to save on facility infrastructure costs. Findings: The City of Syracuse has an extensive network of high-quality education, and efforts should be taken to preserve the integrity of that network. The average public school facility in Syracuse is 63 years old. Renovations for safety, efficiency, utility and aesthetics are needed in a large majority of school buildings. Changing demographics and fiscal constraints will force changes in SCSD practices, as enrollment decreases and costs continue to escalate in difficult financial times.

Source: Frank Rhodes, Former President, Cornell University, at Metropolitan Development Association Annual Meeting

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IV.B.3 ASSETS: Civic Infrastructure Public Safety Public Safety in the City of Syracuse is the primary responsibility of the Syracuse Police and Fire Departments. Various other public and private agencies also provide additional support services. The New York State Police monitors the interstate highways through the City and Rural/Metro Medical Services provides emergency medical services throughout the City. Additionally, Onondaga County coordinates the Emergency 911 system and coordinates emergency planning, response procedures and recovery programs for Onondaga County residents through its Emergency Management Office. Locations of various public safety facilities in Syracuse are represented on Map 9.

Public Safety Facilities

Map 9 Source: SOCPA

Syracuse Fire Department The Syracuse Fire Department provides personnel and equipment to perform fire suppression, rescue and emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, confined space rescue, and general public service assistance to the City of Syracuse. The Syracuse Fire Department is the only Department in New York State with a Insurance Services Office (ISO) Class 1 ratingi - only one of 30 currently in United States which is a benefit to property insurance rates.

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Facilities & Equipment The 17 fire companies are housed in 11 fire stations strategically located throughout the City. The Syracuse Fire Department is comprised of: 9 2-piece engine companies 6 truck companies 1 3-piece engine/hazardous materials company 1 3-piece rescue company Maintenance / Training divisions Chiefs office

Fire stations operate as a system, designed to respond to resident needs based on population density. The Syracuse Fire Department has the capacity and facilities to accommodate anticipated current and near-future fire safety needs; a station in the Lakefront Area may be necessary in the long term, depending on redevelopment activity. Capacity The Citys 5,800 fire hydrants are maintained by the City Water Department. Water systems are designed to provide the required fire flow measured in gallons per minute. The City of Syracuse has adequate flow through its hydrants to support anticipated firefighting efforts. The Fire Department depends heavily on its facilities and its fleet of vehicles, and has developed a capital plan for the systematic upgrade and replacement of necessary equipment, though revenues come mainly from the Citys general fund.

Syracuse Fire Truck

Fire Prevention The Fire Prevention Bureau is responsible for the enforcement of the Fire Prevention Code and regulations dealing with the protection of the public. The Fire Department works closely with the Citys Code Enforcement Office for inspections and building safety code compliance. Vacant buildings are inspected regularly, and a list of more than 1,000 vacancies is maintained by the Fire Department. Other Facilities & Equipment Aircraft rescue and fire fighting at the Hancock International Airport is also handled by the City of Syracuse. An inflatable boat was recently purchased by the Fire Department, using collected federal fines, to provide access to waterway emergencies. The Police Department also owns a boat, which is used on Onondaga Lake and the Syracuse Inner Harbor. Syracuse Police Department The Syracuse Police Department serves the entire City population, covering 26 square miles. The City is further broken down into 22 policing territories and 8 Tomorrows Neighborhoods Today (TNT) areas. The Department tracks and prioritizes calls, and through this can analyze deployment and trends by area.

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Facilities The Syracuse Police Department operates out of Downtowns law enforcement campus, consisting of the Public Safety Building, Onondaga County Justice Center, Forensics Center, Onondaga County Courthouse, and the newly constructed Onondaga County/City of Syracuse Criminal Courthouse facilities.

Public Safety Building

Community Involvement The priorities of the Syracuse Police Department are law enforcement, crime prevention, and community involvement. Syracuse Police have a presence in City neighborhoods through its community policing strategy. Temporary and permanent neighborhood-based community policing facilities are located throughout the City, including mobile units. Longrange goals include providing more policing units in youth and community centers to enhance community policing Syracuse Police efforts. Other Services The Department is also responsible for maintaining traffic flow at Carrier Dome events and other entertainment venues or special events, security at Hancock International Airport, marine patrol of area waterways, and ordinance enforcement. Traffic patrols are largely focused on vehicles coming into and leaving the City every day; officers respond to at least one accident per day as the commuting population flows through the City for work. Findings: Syracuse is equipped with structured organizations serving the entire City. fire and police protection

The City shares facilities through cooperative agreements with Onondaga County for efficient use of law enforcement facilities. A significant portion of police work involves servicing the transient public entering the City for work, entertainment and special events.

ISO ratings, based on statistics of insurance premiums and collections, are used to determine fire risk and fire insurance rates. Source: Insurance Services Office (ISO) web site.

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IV.C.1 ASSETS: Linear Infrastructure Transportation Transportation Crossroads Syracuse is at the transportation crossroads of New York State, a key location within New York State for the movement of goods and people throughout the Northeastern United States. A strategic central location and a well-developed transportation network have made Syracuse a major distribution center and destination location. (Map 10)
Syracuse Skyline

Multi-Modal Network A well-developed multi-modal transportation network serves Syracuse. Air and rail terminals are just 10 minutes from Downtown, with up to 2 million travelers passing through Hancock International Airport each year. Amtrak, Greyhound and Trailways services inter-City passenger needs. The deep-water port of Oswego and the New York State Barge Canal System provide access to the Great Lakes and overseas. And major north-south and east-west interstate highways pass through the City, just south of the New York State Thruway. Road Network Regionally, Syracuse functions as a hub with outward radiating spokes of major highways and arterial roadways. Syracuse, as an older city, is also well served by a fine-grained network of collector roads and local residential streets, typically in an interconnected grid-pattern. The only major modifications to the historic grid pattern are Interstate Highways 81 and 690 forming a cross through the center of the City, largely elevated near downtown to preserve the flow of local cross-traffic underneath.

Regional Transportation Network

Map 10 Source: SOCPA

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Commuting Patterns Syracuse is the commercial center for the entire region, thus receiving a significant amount of commuter traffic into the City each day to approximately 95,000 jobs. Of those working in the City of Syracuse, 38% are City residents and 62% commute from suburban towns and other counties. Approximately 23,000 City residents commute daily to work outside of the City, while 59,000 workers come into the City daily. This influx of workers, as well as the regional population for special events in Downtown and at the Carrier Interstate 81 Dome put additional strain on the local network.
Harrison Street

Parking Another impact of City commuting patterns is that prevalence of land devoted to parking within the Downtown core. According to the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, 45 public parking lots (with more than 20 spaces) lie within the Central Business District housing almost 13,000 cars. There are also private lots and garages, as well as numerous scattered smaller lots throughout Downtown. Metered parking is available on most streets. Approximately 25% of the land area of the Central Business District is dedicated to parking carsi. The condition of parking lots in the Downtown area varies, from wellmaintained, landscaped lots, to unkempt, overgrown stone dust lots. The number of unpaved parking lots within the Downtown is roughly equal to the number of paved lotsii. There are currently limited aesthetic restrictions on parking lot design. There are also several parking garages in Downtown, some owned by the City of Syracuse. Despite the advantages of garages over open lots on the urban form - by condensing parking facilities and hiding cars from the view of pedestrians garages are a costly undertaking for the City of Syracuse. Land and construction costs are significant, maintenance costs are high (especially the wear and tear of wintertime salt on garage structures), and the current availability of convenient open lot parking keeps revenues down.

Aerial View of Downtown Parking Source: SOCPA

Congestion Syracuse has relatively few traffic congestion issues, with the average commute for Syracuse and Onondaga County ranging between 17 and 19 minutesiii. An interconnected local road network serves drivers, with local road congestion mainly centered on interstate access points. Limitations of the transportation system mainly involve the extensive urban interstate system. Interstate Route 81 alone carries over 100,000 vehicles dailyiv, with high-volume through traffic as well as local commuting traffic. In Syracuse, there is no direct interstate highway access between I-690 Eastbound

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I-81 & I-690 near Downtown Source: SOCPA

and I-81 Northbound, though local road access is provided via Bear Street. Additionally, Interstate Highway 81 in the University, Downtown, and Lakefront areas has been operating at or near capacity in several locations, and improvements to closely spaced access ramps are needed throughout this north south corridor within City limits, adding to congestion at peak hours during the dayv. Long-range projections for buildout of the Lakefront Area, University Hill and other areas in and around Syracuse increase the demand on the system.

The City of Syracuse maintains approximately 430 miles or roadway. Funding for transportation projects come from a variety of sources. Funding for interstate highway projects, secondary roadways defined as arterials and collectors, and bridge projects are usually funded through a mix of federal, state and local funds. Local road are generally funded through the Citys general fund and State funding. Planning The Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council (SMTC) acts as the local Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the Syracuse Area. The Transportation Council performs a variety of transportation planning activities such as tracking bridge and pavement condition, classifying roadway function, multi-modal and roadway planning, and is the local coordinator of federal funding for transportation projects in the Syracuse Metropolitan Area. Recent Council planning studies within the City of Syracuse have involved the Lakefront and University Hill areas, the South Salina, Seneca Turnpike and James Street corridors, and a Truck Route Study for the City of Syracuse. Following are maps showing the functional classification of Syracuse roadways, truck routes in Syracuse, and Bridge and Pavement Condition Ratings, all prepared by the Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council. (Maps 11-14)

Functional Classification

Truck Routes

Map 11

Map 12

Source: Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council, New York State Dept. of Transportation, 1999

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Pavement Ratings

Bridge Ratings

Map 13

Map 14

Source: Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council, New York State Dept. of Transportation, 2002

Walking and Bicycling Bicycle and pedestrian travel accounts for over 10% of commuting among Syracuse residents, many in the University Hill area. Only 1.5% of Onondaga Countys suburban residents walk to work, likely due to a lack of sidewalk infrastructure. Table 3 compares City and Suburban commuting patterns. Syracuses place as a center of employment, relatively dense housing stock, and extensive sidewalk and roadway network make walking an attractive option.
Means of Transportation To Work Workers 16 & Over City of Syracuse 66% 14% 7% 1% 10% 2% 1% 100% Onon. Co. Towns 86% 8% 1% 0% 2% 3% 0% 100%

Neighborhood Sidewalks

Drove Alone Carpools Public Transportation Bicycle Walk Work at Home Other Total
Table 3
Source: US Census 2000

In 2002, the Syracuse Department of Public Works estimated approximately 9597% of parcels in the City of Syracuse has sidewalk on at least one side of their propertyvi. Condition of sidewalks throughout the City varies. The City recently restricted the use of asphalt as a paving material for sidewalks, in favor of more durable and attractive concrete or brick materials.

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Syracuse is working toward expanding its bicycling opportunities, through the continued development of the Onondaga Creekwalk as a multi-use corridor, providing bicycle lanes on streets where possible, and working with New York State in the planning of a cross-state Canalway Trail along the Erie Canal corridor. The Syracuse Metropolitan Transportation Council (SMTC) has also developed a Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan to guide planning activities and projects. Local Bus Transit According to the 2000 Census, approximately 7% of City residents utilized the bus system as a means of transportation to work. The City of Syracuse is served with local bus transit operation through the Central New York Regional Transportation Authority (CNYRTA). CENTRO, a subsidiary of the Transportation Authority, serves over 13 million passengers annually, and operates approximately 36 routes in Syracuse and Onondaga County, as well as a Call-A-Bus service and coordination of carpooling programs. With Downtown Syracuse as its hub and transfer station, the network of streets served by CENTRO lines is comprehensive throughout the City, CENTRO Bus and into more populous areas and job centers in the surrounding county. Other Transit The William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center, located on the Citys north side, provides a centralized regional location for inter-city and intra-City bus service, including Grayhound and Trailways, and rail service by Amtrak. CSX Transportation, operator of the largest rail network in the Eastern United Statesvii, runs its main rail line adjacent to the Transportation Center along the southern shoreline of Onondaga Lake. OnTrack, a local passenger rail line, currently offers limited service to the Carousel Center mall, Armory Square and Syracuse University, with extensions in progress to provide stops at the Regional Transportation Center and P&C Stadium. Air Travel In terms of air travel, approximately 150 passenger flights arrive at and depart daily from the Syracuse Hancock International Airport. The airport is operated by the City of Syracuse Department of Aviation, though physically just outside the City line. (See Map 10) The airport, while looking to expand its offerings in order to make fares more competitive, is serviced by several major commercial and commuter airlines. Airline travel, as in much of the nation, has declined in recent years. In an effort to lure low fare carriers and increase traffic utilizing the airport, the City is working aggressively with the local business community on a marketing and incentive campaign. Since 2000, Hancock International Airport has successfully welcomed Jet Blue Airways and Trans Meridian Airlines to Syracuse Hancock Airport and Central New York.

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Findings: While the City is served by a mix of transportation options, reliance on automobile travel is prevalent, putting a strain on road systems. Walking and bicycling are legitimate forms of transportation in the Syracuse area, especially in the more temperate months. Walking facilities have historically been provided in neighborhoods and business districts. Bicycle facilities are beginning to appear. Affordable and accessible airline service to and from Syracuse is an important factor in economic development and retention, as well as a quality of life factor. Efforts to attract low fare carriers continue. The influx of vehicles into Downtown Syracuse has made parking a major land use within the Citys core business district. Large, open lots have a negative impact on the urban form of the City. Publicly owned parking garages are a financial burden for the City of Syracuse. Syracuse serves as the transportation hub for the entire Central New York region. In addition to being a destination location for work, travel and entertainment, cross-City through traffic is also prevalent on interstates running north to south and east to west in the City. Demands on the current arterial system in Syracuse are increasing, and projections for long-term development densities may influence capacity issues into the future.

i Source: Parking in the Downtown Neighborhood. Downtown Tomorrows Neighborhoods Today, City of Syracuse Department of Community Development. ii Ibid. iii United States Bureau of The Census. 2000 Census of Population and Housing. SF-3 Data set. iv Region 3 At A Glance New York State Department of Transportation: web site. v Syracuse Lakefront Transportation Planning Study: Phase I Report. City of Syracuse. vi Dick Galloway, City of Syracuse Sidewalk Bureau, December 2002. vii CSX Companies web site

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IV.B.2 ASSETS: Linear Infrastructure Water Supply Primary Water Source Central New York generally enjoys sufficient precipitation to comfortably meet the needs of agriculture and water supplies. The primary water source for the City of Syracuse is Skaneateles Lake, a Finger Lake located approximately 20 miles southwest of the City. Syracuse has utilized this lake for its water supply since 1894. Skaneateles Lake has a relatively small watershed of 59 square miles and a water surface Skaneateles Lake area of 14 square miles. Secondary Water Source Skaneateles Lake is the primary source of water for the City, with Lake Ontario as a secondary source for supplemental or emergency situations. In 2002, the total amount of water used in the City averaged 42.1 million gallons per day, of which 1.26 million gallons per day came from Lake Ontario via a connection with the Metropolitan Water Board system on the north side of the City. The Metropolitan Water Board, supplying water from Lake Ontario, is able to supplement the Citys Skaneateles supply with up to 10 million gallons per day as, or about 25% of the Citys daily need. Water Sales The City is also a wholesaler of water to portions of the Towns of Dewitt, Geddes, Onondaga, Camillus, Skaneateles, Salina, and the Villages of Jordan and Elbridge. Syracuse University and LeMoyne College each have their own water mains and distribution systems, while the City sells them the water that runs through them.

Public Water Supply

Drinking Water Quality Skaneateles Lake is one of the cleanest lakes in the world. In fact, the City of Syracuse has won national awards for its water supply. The City has been able to avoid filtering Map 15 Skaneateles Lake Water Source: SOCPA through a strict program to protect the watershed and address non-point source pollution generated by agriculture, including the purchase of conservation easements. The Department of Water estimates that in 10-20 years the need for a filtration plant for water leaving Skaneateles Lake may again be considered, though water quality currently meets or exceeds drinking water standards.

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Treatment The water drawn from Skaneateles Lake passes through course screening, is chlorinated and fluoridated before being sent by three conduit lines to the Citys two storage reservoirs in Syracuse, Woodland and Westcott Reservoirs. When the water leaves the reservoirs, it is disinfected with chlorine and treated with Skaneateles Lake Water Testing orthophosphate for corrosion control. Lake Ontario water is filtered, chlorinated and fluoridated at Onondaga Countys Metropolitan Water Board Plant in Oswego, New York. In order to control lead in the drinking water, the Syracuse Water Department adds orthophosphate to the water leaving the reservoirs. It is added to decrease the leaching of lead into the water supply as it flows through lead water pipes or through water fixtures containing lead or lead solder. The treatment has been developed and approved with the New York State Department of Health. The Water Department conducts rigorous tests of the water in order to monitor its quality and to verify compliance with state and federal requirements. Delivery System The Syracuse water system is made up of over 500 miles of pipelines. Two main transmission lines travel from Skaneateles Lake to the City and distribute water throughout the neighborhoods. Water is stored in the City in Woodland and Westcott Reservoirs, as well as in two standpipes and three tanks at Morningside Heights in the University area. Water Loss The City of Syracuse continues to have some of the lowest water rates in New York State, approximately $2.11 per 1000 gallons in 2002. However, water lost from the system as a result of leakage, meter inaccuracies and unauthorized water use was estimated to be 12.8 million gallons per day during 2002. Lost Water Dept. water is a concern to the Department of Water and steps are being taken to reduce the amount of water lost Woodland Reservoir through leaks in the system. The continued leak detection and repair program as well as a planned system-wide meter replacement program is expected to reduce the unaccounted-for water figure. Most of the water systems pipelines average 60-70 years old - the life span of water pipes is up to 100 years. Top priorities include improvements to both the Westcott and Woodland Reservoirs, improvements to the conduit line and the continued replacement of water pipes in the City streets.

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Findings: The City of Syracuse is fortunate to have accessible water, and of excellent quality from the well-protected Skaneateles Lake. The availability of water from Lake Ontario is an additional asset to the system and its efficiency. Protection of the Skaneateles Lake Watershed is an important factor in the quality of the Citys water. So far, through innovative programs careful management and alternative technologies, the City has avoided costly filtering requirements. Water distribution pipelines and reservoirs are aging, and the City loses millions of gallons per day due to leakage. A comprehensive analysis of the entire water system has recently commenced.

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IV.B.3 ASSETS: Linear Infrastructure Wastewater/Stormwater Systems

The City of Syracuse owns and operates sanitary, stormwater and combined sewer collection systems. The sanitary sewers and combined sewers are connected to collection and treatment systems owned and operated by Onondaga County. History The Citys sewer system was largely built Metropolitan Sewage between 1875 and 1950, originally discharging to Treatment Plant area streams and drainage ditches. The Syracuse Sewage Treatment Plant was originally constructed in 1925 and the Main Interceptor Sewer (MIS) and Harbor Brook Interceptor Sewer (HBIS) were completed in the mid-1920s. The Syracuse Sewage Treatment Plant was transferred to Onondaga County in 1955 after which the plant was upgraded (1959) and renamed the Metropolitan Syracuse Wastewater Treatment Plant (Metro). In the 1960s, the Main Interceptor Sewer (MIS), Harbor Brook Interceptor Sewer (HBIS) and several large combined sewage trunk sewers serving the Metro Plant Service Area were transferred to Onondaga County as part of the Syracuse Sewage Treatment District. The Meadowbrook Sewer District service area involves a portion of the Citys eastside and flows to the Countys Meadowbrook-Limestone Sewage Treatment Plant in Manlius.

Treatment Plant Service Areas

The Syracuse Sewage Treatment District and Meadowbrook Sewer District became part of the Onondaga County Sanitary District in 1976. As part of the consolidation, Onondaga County assumed ownership of additional trunk sewers in 1978 and 1982. The County now owns and operates approximately 60 miles of interceptor and trunk sewers within the City. In 1979, the County completed a $100 million expansion and upgrade of Metro to a secondary/tertiary treatment plant.
Source: SOCPA Sewer System The system of sewers in the City is complex. Because of drainage patterns, most of the City is in the Metro Plant service area, while the eastern neighborhoods are in the Meadowbrook/Limestone Treatment Plant service area. (See Map 16) Sanitary sewage collection starts with service laterals (part City, part private) connected to various sized collector sewers. The Map 16

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collector sewers are connected to trunk sewers. Within the Metro Plant service area, trunk sewers connect to interceptor sewers and/or force mains that connect to the Metropolitan Sewage Treatment Plant. Combined Sewers Combined sewers serve approximately 90% of the Metro service area, meaning the collector sewers collect and convey both sanitary sewage (from homes and businesses) and stormwater from land and building run-off. Because the collector sewers are predominantly combined, the Countys trunk and interceptor sewers are also combined sewer types. As originally designed and constructed, the Citys sewer system included 90 combined sewer overflows that are activated when rainfall/snowmelt exceeds the capacity of the system (between and inch of rain per hour). By the mid-1980s the County had permanently eliminated 24 combined sewer overflows and significantly reduced the volume of wet weather overflows (and several dry weather overflows) by cleaning and repairing the system. The City also owns and operates over 260 miles of dedicated sanitary and dedicated stormwater sewers within the Metro service area. The Meadowbrook service area has only dedicated sanitary and dedicated stormwater sewers. However, the City was served with a consent judgment in 1991 requiring full separation of portions of the sewer system in the Meadowbrook service area that did not meet New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) standards. Stormwater and Drainage Systems As indicated above, the City owns and operates dedicated stormwater collection sewers throughout the City. Additionally, there are three County drainage districts that include portions of the City including the Harbor Brook Drainage District, Meadowbrook Drainage District and Bear Trap/Ley Creek Drainage District. City residents pay a portion of the cost for improvements and maintenance in these districts that includes two detention basins and stream flow maintenance. Maintenance The Syracuse Department of Public Works is responsible for maintenance of the 429 miles of combined, sanitary Catch Basin collector and dedicated storm sewers. The Citys 400+ miles of sewers collect storm water and sanitary sewage from properties along city streets and through catch basins in the streets. Sewers are generally deep (10+ feet) in the ground and sloped to facilitate gravity flow. Pipelines vary in size from 8 to 84 in diameter.

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Many of the Citys sewer lines date back to the late-1800s and early-1900s, with most being built prior to 1930. Only 14% of city sewers are less than 50 years old, the projected life span of sewer pipes. The City averages approximately 500 repairs to the sewer system annually, including installation or repair of approximately 1,000 feet annually. Most repairs are made on an emergency basis. An aging infrastructure Age of Public Wastewater System is prevalent in most cities, a condition that is becoming a matter of national concern, especially in the older cities in the Northeast. Very rarely are state or federal aid funds available for the routine upgrade of municipal sewer infrastructure, thus putting a significant strain on municipal budgets for this costly infrastructure maintenance work. The Syracuse Department of Public Works is also charged with maintaining its 11,290 catch basins, 7,045 manholes, 12 miles of creeks and brooks, and 8 miles of fencing all part of the Citys sewage and Map 17 stormwater collection system. Source: SOCPA The City is responsible for keeping the sewer lines and waterways clear of debris, in order to prevent or reduce flooding and backup incidents. Amended Consent Judgment In 1987, a lawsuit was filed against Onondaga County (Sanitary District) for alleged violations of the 1972 Federal Clean Water Act as amended in relation to operation of the Metropolitan Syracuse Wastewater Treatment Plant and tributary Combined Sewer Overflows. This suit resulted in the issuance of a Consent Judgment in 1989. Subsequent litigation was settled by the Parties to the lawsuit resulting in entering of the Amended Consent Judgment (ACJ) by the Northern District Federal Court on January 20, 1998. A total of 30 projects and/or categories of projects are included in the ACJ to be completed by Onondaga County (Onondaga County Sanitary District) over 15 years. The ACJ addresses capital improvements and demonstration projects at Metro aimed at improving plant operations and efficiency and significantly reducing the amount of ammonia and phosphorus discharged to Onondaga Lake in the plant effluent. All of the plant general improvement and upgrade work was completed by 2002. The largest project to date is the Stage III Ammonia and Stage II

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Phosphorus Removal project costing approximately $135 million. Additional major capital projects at Metro may be necessary in the future to meet the very stringent Stage III phosphorus effluent limits as well as ongoing plant maintenance and equipment replacement. The ACJ also requires the County to undertake a series of projects related to abatement of the combined sewer overflows that are tributary to Metro. Although many Onondaga Lake of the Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) are connected to City collector sewers, the County has responsibility because all CSOs are considered part of Metro discharge permit. The County has been aggressively progressing projects throughout the City to implement the provisions of the ACJ in eliminating or abating all of the 66 (as of 1998) Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) in the City along Onondaga Creek, Harbor Brook, Teall Brook and Ley Creek. Overflows (CSOs) occur when heavy or persistent rain and/or snowmelt exceed the capacity of the combined trunk and/or interceptor sewer system. Regulating structures occur along the interceptor or trunk sewer system, which allow excess flows to be discharged to the receiving stream instead of being contained within the system and causing basement flooding and/or street flooding. The elimination or abatement of CSOs is a very costly and disruptive process that has caused controversy in the City. Projects being undertaken by the County included those that are intended to: increase the capacity of the existing collection system, sewer separation, regional storage and conveyance and regional treatment and discharge. Fifteen CSO projects have been completed to date including 3 sewer separation projects eliminating 7 CSOs, five floatables control projects (FCFs), rehabilitation of 18 sewer siphons, two regional storage and conveyance projects and one regional storage/treatment project (Hiawatha Blvd. Regional Treatment Facility). Water Quality Though significant challenges remain in completing the mandates of the Amended Consent Judgment, significant water quality improvements in Onondaga Lake have already been documented, and a renewed interest in Onondaga Lake and Onondaga Creek as recreational waterways continues to grow. Phase II Stormwater Regulations Based on the Syracuses population size, the City is subject to the United States Environmental Protection Agency / New York Sate Department of Environmental Conservation (USEPA/NYSDEC) Phase II Stormwater Regulations affecting all dedicated stormwater point discharges within the City. These regulations require the City to monitor stream water quality and to undertake best management practices (BMP) to minimize stormwater related water pollution. Stormwater quality is roughly equivalent in pollution load as combined sewage and, therefore, is considered a major source of water pollution.

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The City has a Best Management Practices (BMP) Plan and Onondaga County and the City have cooperated on several BMP projects over the past several years. Working with the Onondaga Lake Partnership, US Army Corps of Engineers and US Environmental Protection Agency and Onondaga County, the City has purchased a litter vacuum vehicle and a sewer jet-vac truck to help maintain streets and catch basins; undertaken a construction program to rehabilitate catch basins in the Onondaga Lake basin. The County has also instituted an educational program related to reduce pollutants related to general human practices in the neighborhoods of Syracuse. Findings: The City has an extensive system of combined, storm and sanitary sewer infrastructure, owned both by the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County. Due to aging infrastructure and pollution controls, significant work is needed to modernize and repair the sewer systems throughout the entire city. The effects of the Clean Water Act, Onondaga Countys Lake Improvement Project and other projects are already having a significant effect on the water quality of Onondaga Lake and its tributaries. The provisions of the Phase II Stormwater Regulations will further challenge the City in regards to maintenance of the storm sewer system and system modifications to achieve water quality standards in the future.

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V.A TRENDS: Economy Metropolitan Hub The City of Syracuse is a major regional economic and job center, home to just under 100,000 employees. According to the US Census, almost one-third of employees over the age of 16 living in the Syracuse Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA)i, works inside the City of Syracuse. Over 50,000 workers commute into Syracuse daily. While Syracuse, like most Upstate New York cities, has suffered from recent national economic slowdown, it continues to have a stable economy with a diverse, educated, work force, relatively low unemployment, and a strong urban core. Industry Syracuse and Onondaga County have a stable economy with a labor force that is spread amongst several industries. The historically strong manufacturing base that Syracuse relied upon in earlier decades is changing - as University Hill in much of the country - and the economic condition of Syracuse is now based on a more diversified economy. During the 1960s, the City of Syracuse had approximately 30% of its working population in manufacturing. Manufacturing currently accounts for 11.3% of the working labor force, according to the 2000 US Census.

Onondaga County Employment By Industry

35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% City of Syracuse Onondaga County Towns

Agriculture, Forestry, etc.

Wholesale Trade

Arts, Entertainment & Recereation/Accommodati on & Food Service

Finance/Insurance/Real Estate/Leasing

Professional/Scientific/Tec h. Services/Mgmt/Administra

Education/Health/Social Services

Other Services (except Public Admin.)

Transportation & Warehousing/Utilities

Retail Trade

Information

Table 4 Source: US Census 2000

Public Administration

Construction

Manufacturing

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Eds & Meds Education and Medicine Today, Syracuses strongest and growing employment sector, at over 30% is the Education, Health Care and Social Services sector. Syracuse ranks 75th out of 317 US Metropolitan Areas based on the amount of health care employment in the area, according to a study by the Milkin Institute. SUNY Upstate Medical University alone is currently the 22nd largest employer in New York State and the largest in Onondaga County.

Syracuse University

Other major employers in this category include Syracuse University (the third largest employer in the County), State University of New York (SUNY) Environmental Science & Forestry College, Crouse Hospital and the Veterans Administration Hospital. SUNY Upstate Medical University is currently pursuing the development of a Childrens Hospital, Cancer Center, and a new Institute for Cardiovascular Research, expanding its presence even more so in the Central New York community. Employers Approximately one-third of the Countys largest employers are housed in Syracuse. In addition to the numerous health and educational facilities, some of the major Syracuse-based employers include Niagara Mohawk, Blue Cross Blue Shield/Excellus, Verizon, Deluxe Customer Center, and the MONY Group, all located in Downtown Syracuse. Carousel Center mall in the Lakefront area is currently a 1.75 million square foot super-regional mall, employing over 5,000 people in the Syracuse area. Additionally, hundreds of smaller neighborhood based retail and service businesses reside in Syracuse, both in Downtown as well as along neighborhood and commercial corridors such as Erie Boulevard. Growing Industries Across the state, the service sector, especially call centers, are growing, along with high-tech manufacturing, finance, insurance, real estate, hospitality and leisure, and wholesale and retail trade. New York State Department of Labor Statistics also project increases in education and health, professional and business services, trade, transportation and utilities, as growing sectors of the future Syracuse area labor market. Transportation Assets Greater Syracuse is also a nexus for the movement of goods and people throughout the Northeast. City of Syracuse, as the region's major metropolitan center, has a well-developed transportation network including an international airport for passengers Downtown Syracuse and cargo, two major interstate highways including the New York State Thruway, intersecting just to the north of the City, water access to the New York State Canal System and nearby deep water ports, and the CSX main rail line traversing the north side of the City. This well developed

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transportation network has served as competitive asset in the transportation, retail and trade industries. Economic Development In an effort to encourage new business and expansion within the Upstate New York Region, New York State has expanded its Economic Development Zone Program, now known as Empire Zones, within Syracuse and Onondaga County. This program offers a variety of tax incentives and utility rate reductions to facilitate business growth in selected target areas. The Citys Lakefront Area, as well as corridors along I-690, Salina Street and in Near Downtown locations are targeted, as shown on Map 17. Syracuse is known to have the most active Empire Zones program in the entire state.

Empire and Empowerment Zones

Map 18 Source: SOCPA Syracuse Economic Development Department

An added business development incentive for the City of Syracuse was announced in 2002, with the designation of the City as a Federal Empowerment Zone by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This designation entitles business owners in targeted areas to receive regulatory relief and tax breaks to encourage community revitalization. Economic Development Initiatives As a result of coordinated efforts by economic development and business officials and strategic infrastructure investments, several new projects affecting the City have been initiated or completed in recent years. Specific areas of activity include: The continued comprehensive redevelopment activity within the Syracuse Lakefront, including the proposed DestiNY USA resort project, the Inner Harbor project and new housing and office renovations in historic Franklin Square. New infrastructure enhancements and faade improvement programs to facilitate the North Salina Street corridor, also known as the Little Italy project. Redevelopment of the 300 Block of South Salina Street, totaling a $30 million investment, providing housing up to 40 apartments, 20 condominiums, over 20,000 square feet of retail space and a 1,000-car parking garage to support downtown office tenants.

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 The renovation and restoration of Downtowns Clinton Square renovation project, including festival space, monument restoration and ice skating rink. Over 100 new apartment units reintroduced to Downtown Syracuse, in Hanover Square, the Loews Landmark Building, and on West Genesee Street. Hanover Square also saw new tenants in many of its commercial storefronts. Public and private partnership, including a $37 million commitment by New York State, to create a Center of Excellence in Environmental Systems (CoE-ES) in the University area, aimed at making Syracuse a worldwide leader in environmental systems engineering. Findings: The Downtown and University Hill areas are the commercial core for the City of Syracuse, home to several of the Citys largest businesses, health care facilities and educational facilities. The Syracuse economy is undergoing change from a manufacturing base to a more diversified economy. Syracuse has a strong education and health care sector, employing many residents in Syracuse and Central New York. Major economic development incentives are available through the Empire and Empowerment Zones programs. These programs are being marketed and utilized in attracting new business to Syracuse, though competition is fierce and efforts are limited. Several areas are undergoing change in Syracuse, as the City reinvests in its older areas, reinvents former industrial districts, and celebrates its heritage while providing new economic opportunities.

The Syracuse Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is comprised of Onondaga, Oswego and Madison Counties. After the 1990 United States Census, Cayuga County was also included in the Syracuse MSA, but was taken out prior to the 2000 Census.

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V.B TRENDS: Population The City of Syracuse lies in the center of the three-county Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), and has a population of 147,306 people.i It is the fifth largest city in Syracuse lies New York State.ii within Onondaga County, which has a population of 458,336, and the Syracuse MSA has a total population of 732,117.iii

Population Density

Population Density The average population density in Syracuse is 5,871 persons per square mile compared to Onondaga County as a whole with 588 people per square The densest areas of mile.iv Map 19 population occur just outside of Downtown, in the oldest portions of the City. These areas typically have smaller lots and multi-family housing units. Population density decreases toward the more recently developed outer edges of the city, shown on Map 19.
P e rc e n ta g e o f C o u n ty P o p u la tio n L iv in g in th e C ity o f S y ra c u s e
80% 60% 40% 20% 0%
19 30 18 50 18 90 19 10 18 70 19 70 19 50 19 90

Table 5 Source: US Census 2000

Migration Patterns In 1950, the City made up 65% of the total county population.v(Table 5) In 2000, it made up only 32%.vi This reflects a growing nationwide trend toward suburban growth and decentralization. Once town populations began to grow, city population proportionately decreased, indicating a migration of residents from the city to the surrounding towns and villages.

The City has witnessed gradual population loss over the past several decades, since its peak in 1950 of 220,583. (See Table 6) The decline was most severe in the 1990s, when population decreased approximately 11% in one decade. The historic trend of county population growth was also reversed in the 1970s, and for the first time the county actually lost population as a whole indicating that city residents are not only moving to the suburbs, but residents on the whole are moving out of the county. Cities across Upstate New York have been losing population in the past several years not only to suburban sprawl, but also to more economically competitive areas in the country.

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Population in Onondaga County

Syracuse Towns Total County

500,000 400,000 300,000 200,000 100,000 18 50 18 60 18 70 18 80 18 90 19 00 19 10 19 20 19 30 19 40 19 50 19 60 19 70 19 80 19 90 20 00

Year
Size County Average Family Size City Average Family Size County 2.5 2 1980 1990 2000

Table 6 Source: US Census 2000

However, recent migration statistics from the Internal Revenue Service suggest that the flow of people out of Central New York lessened considerably in 2002. Estimates show the annual net loss of people from migration fell to 1,800 in 2002, down from a peak of 8,000 in 1997, just after the peak of the economic recession in that decade. Census estimates show only a 0.3% loss of population in 2002 in the City of Syracuse. Mobility The population in the City is more mobile than that in the surrounding towns and villages. Fifty-six percent of the city population over the age of five lived in a different residential unit in 2000 than they did in 1995 compared to 36% in the suburbs of Onondaga County. Of the city residents that did move, 55% moved from another location in the city. Seven percent of this population came from outside the United States in the city compared to 3% in the Household Characteristics City versus County Over 78% of rentersuburbs.vii occupied housing units saw new 3.5 tenants between that same period, Average indicating that the citys large rental Household Size City housing market accounts for much of 3 Average this mobility statistic. Household Households The decline in population has had an effect on the size and composition of households both in the city and the surrounding suburbs. The number of households in the city has declined 12% since 1980 to

Table 7 59,568. Over the same period the Source: US Census 2000 number of households increased in the suburbs 19%. However, the rate of increase in the suburbs is declining and the rate of decline in the city is increasing, slowing the countywide increase in households to 1.9% in the 1990s compared to 6.9% in the 1980s.viii

Typical of national trends over the past several years, households, both family and non-family, are getting smaller. Household size in the city has decreased by 4.4% compared to 10.6% in the county as a whole since 1980. This is more

Population

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the result of the loss of family households (down 24% since 1980) in the city, which tend to be larger than non-family households and the increase in singleperson households in the suburbs (up 44% since 1980).ix The number of female-headed households in the city (currently 36% of family households) has increased 13% since 1980 compared to an increase of 28% in the suburbs. And while married-couple families still comprise the majority of family households in the city (56%), their numbers have dropped 55% since 1980.x Demographic Profile Migration out of the center of the city has spurred a variety of demographic changes. The city has become increasingly diverse, households are getting smaller, families are moving to the suburbs, and the elderly are becoming a more prominent segment of the population. Ethnicity Syracuse is becoming Ethnicity in Syracuse and Suburbs more ethnically diverse, a trend not City of Onondaga Co. seen in neighboring towns in Syracuse Towns Onondaga County. (Table 8) 64.3% 94.5% European ethnic neighborhoods are White Black 25.3% 1.7% becoming increasingly multicultural Asian 3.4% 1.5% as immigration of minority 3.3% 0.2% populations grow. Statistics in Other 3.6% 1.4% 2000 show almost 95% of residents Two or more races outside the City of Syracuse were Table 8 white, compared to 64% within city Source: US Census 2000 boundaries. In 2000, over 75% of the countys minority population resided in the city, including 88% of the countys African-American population.xi Age Age groups with the largest decrease in Age Demographics: City of Syracuse population between 1990 25,000 and 2000 in the city was the 20,000 60 to 69 year bracket (minus 15,000 50%) indicating an exodus of 10,000 recently retired people from 5,000 the city. Those 20 to 34 0 years old have also seen significant losses during the 1990s (32%), a reflection of Table 9 the areas economy as those Age Source: US Census 2000 first entering the job market are leaving the area to find employment. Elderly persons (70-79) show a 27% decline during the last decade despite efforts by the city to develop affordable housing for the elderly. Finally, the number of children under five years old has declined 22% in the nineties, which indicate families with children are leaving the city.xii
U nd er 5 5 to 10 9 to 15 14 to 20 19 to 25 24 to 35 34 to 45 44 to 55 54 to 55 59 to 65 64 to 75 74 85 to an 84 d ov er

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School Age Children According to the Census, there were 27,614 children between the ages of 3 and 17, or school age children, living in the City of Syracuse in 2000. Approximately 84% of the elementary school aged children in the city attend the public schools. About 11% of the children attend parochial schools, and currently 3% attend charter schools. 2% of City children are home schooled. The school district faces challenges in the coming decade related to declining student enrollment. Ten year projections made by district staff estimate school enrollment of 19,461 in 2011, a 13% decrease in enrollment from 2001, as shown in the attached graph. This trend can be seen across Upstate New York cities such as Rochester and Buffalo, each expecting 10,000- student enrollment declines in the next five years.
Total Syracu se C ity Sch ool D istrict En rollm en t by Y ear
24,000 23,000

Total Enrollment

22,000 21,000 20,000 19,000 18,000 17,000

92 96 00 04 94 98 06 08 20 02 19 19 19 20 20 20 20 20 19 10

Table 10 Source: US Census 2000

Year

Labor Force Almost 60% of the population over 16 years of age is in the labor force. Of the 67,072 in the labor force, approximately 90.5% are employed, 9.3% are not employed and 0.2% is in the armed forces, according to 2000 US Census figures. Inversely, 41% of the citys population was not in the labor force compared to 33% in the suburbs. Income & Poverty The median household income in the City of Syracuse was $25,000 in 2000, up from $21,242 in 1990. However, in current dollars, it actually represents a decrease in household income in the last ten years. As shown on Map 20, few census tracts in the City of Syracuse showed a rising median income between 1990 and 2000. These statistics indicate that a significant number of households earning more than the median income level in the last decade have left the city in sufficient numbers. Of those census tracts showing increases, many are lower income census tracts. Change in Median Household Income by Census Tract: 1990-2000

Map 20 Source: US Census 2000

Increase Decrease

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Approximately 27.3% of the population, or just over 37,000 people, lived below the poverty level according to the 2000 US Census (22.7% in 1990). Children under 18 are disproportionately among those in poverty with 35% of that age group in poverty. Of those 65 and older, approximately 12% were below the poverty level.xiii Findings: The City of Syracuse has lost many residents over the past several decades to suburban sprawl and to a weakened economy causing residents to leave the area in search of jobs. Neighborhoods most affected by population change tend to be older, lower income neighborhoods, as alternative housing options become available in other areas of the City and suburbs. The City if Syracuse is becoming more ethnically diverse, while Onondaga County suburbs are diversifying at a much slower rate. Several age cohorts of the population are declining, including young families and recent retirees, both significant segments of the Citys residential property tax base. However, recent estimates show that the pattern is slowing. The median income in Syracuse decreased, in current dollars, from 1990 to 2000, due to the outmigration of households. Almost every census tract was affected by this trend.

US Census 2000 Summary File 1 (SF1) 100-Percent Data. 1. New York City (8,008,278), 2. Buffalo (292,648), 3. Rochester (219,773), 4. Yonkers (196,086). iii US Census 2000 Summary File 1 (SF1) 100-Percent Data. iv US Census 2000 Summary Population and Housing Characteristics Table 15. v US Census 1950 City: 220,583/County: 341,718 = 65%. vi US Census 2000 Summary File 1 (SF1) 100-Percent Data City: 147,306/County: 458,336 = 32%. vii US Census 2000 Summary File 3 (SF3) Sample Data PCT21. viii US Census 2000, 1990, 1980 Summary File 3 (SF3) Sample Data P17. ix Ibid. x Ibid. xi US Census 2000, 1990, 1980 Summary File 3 (SF3) Sample Data P6. xii US Census 2000, 1990, 1980 Summary File 3 (SF3) Sample Data P8. xiii US Census 2000, 1990, 1980 Summary File 3 (SF3) Sample Data P87.
ii

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V.C

TRENDS: Fiscal

The City of Syracuse is governed by a strong Mayor-City Council structure. The Mayor oversees all City Departments. The legislative powers vested in the elected Common Council include approval of the Citys annual Operating Budget and a Capital Plan for public infrastructure projects. The City also has zoning and subdivision power, which controls land use. City Budget The Office of Management and Budget prepares and administers the annual budget and a six-year capital improvement program. The Office develops and administers the City's energy, telecommunications, and technology policies, performs management and productivity improvement studies for all departments, manages and tracks in conjunction with the Finance Department all serial bond issues, prepares recommendations concerning fiscal policy, budgeting, and staffing, and establishes operating procedures. Revenues & Spending The City faces the continuing challenge of a stagnant revenue base while costs continue to escalate. In recent years, financial challenges have come in the areas of employee health insurance, retirement contributions, workers compensation costs, and capital spending on facility maintenance, as well as declining and uncertain State Aid. The City has also seen declines in gross receipts utilities tax, interest on deposits and overall department revenues. The City has recently implemented the SyraStat quality control management system which tracks and monitors the use of city resources, to make operations as cost-effective and efficient as possible. The 2002/03 Budget for the City of Syracuse and Syracuse City School District totaled $405.4 million, including $209.3 million for the School Districts General Fund and $196.1 million for all City operations. A breakdown of the Citys 200203 General Fund revenues is show below, as well as a breakdown of City General Fund spending based on those collected revenues and borrowed debt.

General City Budget Revenues

General City Budget Expenditures

Public Works 14% Airport Enterprise Fund 12% Water Fund 7% Other Depts. & Expenses 9% Engineering 3% Parks, Rec & Youth 4% Sewers & Streams 2%

Sales Tax 26%

State Aid 27%

Department Revenue 6% Real Property Tax Items 4% Other Revenue 3%

Fire Dept. 17%

Airport Enterprise Fund 12%

Police Dept. 22%

Real Property Tax 11% Water Fund 7% Other Funds' Revenue 3%

Utility Tax 2%

Debt Service & Capital 10%

Table 11 Source: City of Syracuse Budget Department

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Capital Improvement Program The City also prepares annually a six-year capital improvement program of scheduled infrastructure improvements in accordance with the provisions of General Municipal Law. For each proposed project, the budget document contains a complete description of the undertaking together with its estimated cost, a justification of the proposed expenditure, and the sources of financing for the project. The current Capital Improvement Plan emphasizes restoration and preservation of the present infrastructure of the City. The plan continues the commitment of previous plans to systematically rehabilitate the citys water system, bridges, roads, schools, parking garages, parks and airport runways and taxiways. These capital improvement Capital Project Financing costs will be financed through (2002-08) issuing debt and receipt of Federal & State Grants federal and state grants, Airport Projects largely for school and airport Street & Bridge/Community Projects improvements. As of July 2003, the City is currently at State Aid for School Improvements 78.6% of its established debt Internal Funds limit of approximately $317.3 Issuing Debt Table 12 million.

$119.0 million $19.1 million $123.6 million $27.7 million $258.9 million

Source: City of Syracuse Department of Finance

As shown, the City relies heavily on state aid, sales tax revenues, and real property taxes to fund much of its operations and facility improvements. At present, a weakened state and national economy over the past several years has both increased Upstate municipalities need for financial assistance as well as increased competition between those cities for limited State Aid funds. Tax Revenues While State aid continues to be difficult to obtain, the City of Syracuse has recently seen a modest increase in sales tax revenues over the past few years, despite a renegotiated sales tax sharing agreement with Onondaga County. Another important impact on the Citys tax base lies in its collection of real property taxes. The decline in population and in the relative wealth of the population in the City of Syracuse, especially of middle class residents, has had a significant effect on the Citys tax base. Real property tax revenue is also significantly impacted by the unbalanced concentration of tax-exempt property. As of 2002, approximately 48.9% of the property value in the City of Syracuse is exempt from these taxes. Map 19 shows those parcels. The City of Syracuse serves as a central hub for much of the areas public housing, schools and universities, parks, religious, cultural and community facilities, government buildings, and government and non-profit social service agencies. These uses serve the County and the region, though

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the City of Syracuse does not recoup taxes to support the infrastructure and municipal service needs.

Tax Exempt Properties

Map 21 Source: SOCPA, Syracuse Real Property Database

Findings: The City must choose wisely in the allocation of very limited, and declining, revenues for city operations and projects. Alternative sources of revenue need to be identified to support city and school district operations, both to decrease reliance on State Aid and borrowing, as well as to increase its bond rating. The City may want to investigate ways to decrease the financial burden it faces due to its large concentration of tax-exempt properties, which tend to serve not only City, but County and Regional interests as well. Capital Improvement expenditures should be cost-efficient and lowmaintenance whenever possible.

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V.D

TRENDS: Land Use

Historic Settlement Urban fabric in Syracuse is evident on this Generalized Land Use Map 22. It has been largely dictated by history, geology, transportation and commerce. Downtown is located in the center of the City near Onondaga Lake on poor, marshy land that over time was slowly drained and built upon, largely for industrial and commercial purposes. Residential areas form a broad crescent around the commercial center. Throughout these residential districts, bands of commercial structures line the major streets. Drumlins and foothills to the south give characteristic form to the Valley section. Another major feature is the band of industrial and warehouse areas stretching from east to west along the former route of the Erie Canal and NYC Railroad, now Interstate Highway 690. Syracuse is now a built-up City with very little raw undeveloped land, or greenfields, remaining for potential use. Therefore, recent changes in land use patterns are not so much the result of new development, but predominantly of demolition and redevelopment activities, as efforts proceed to harmonize and improve the existing form of the City. Zoning Zoning generally follows these historic patterns, with the central business district at the core, spines of commercial activity spreading outward, and industrial zones along the former canal and in the Lakefront where salt processing and Barge Canal activity flourished. Map 23 represents current zoning.

Generalized Land Use

Map 22 Source: SOCPA, Syracuse Real Property Database

Table 13

Land Use Acreage Residential Commercial Parks / Open Space Public Service Industrial Vacant

Source: SOCPA

49% 16% 11% 8% 4% 12%

Generalized Zoning

Map 23 Source: SOCPA, City Zoning Office

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Residential Land Use Housing comprises a large portion of the Citys landscape, with over 68,000 housing units. Housing varies from stately historic colonial residences in the Strathmore neighborhood, to Craftsman bungalows designed by Ward Wellington Ward, to modest capes in Eastwood, to modern townhouses and dormitories in the University area. The Syracuse housing stock offers a wide variety of single family and multi-family housing. Housing Units In 2000, the City had Residential Housing 68,196 housing units, comprising 35% Acreage of the total number of units in Onondaga 5+ County. Of those units, 59,482 are City of Family Syracuse occupied housing units. Approximately Single Housing 67% of those units are single-family Family 2-4 Profile residences, 19% are 2- and 3-family Family homes, and 14% consist of five or more units, typically garden and high-rise apartments. Total Housing Units 68,192 Occupancy Of the 59,482 occupied housing units, 23,991, or 40% were owner occupied and 60% were renter occupied. Almost 13% of all housing units were vacant in 2000, a high percentage by national standards, and indicative of the Citys declining population. (Table 14)
Occupied Housing Units Owner Occupied Renter Occupied Vacant
Table 14 Source: US Census 2000

59,482 23,991 (40%) 35,491 (60%) 8,710

In 1960, there were more housing units in the City than there were in the towns and villages of Onondaga County combined. Now, the towns continue to grow in housing units while City and county populations fall. The City now represents 33% of the Countys housing supply. Public Housing Syracuses public housing for low-income households is owned and operated by the Syracuse Housing Authority (SHA). The Syracuse Housing Authority owns and operates 12 federal subsidized public housing developments and manages two city sites. A total of 2,343 federal elderly and family public housing units are available for occupancy in the City. There is currently a waiting list for those units, totaling almost 800 households, especially for family unitsi. Value The Syracuse housing stock faces a series of challenges to compete in the housing market. A large 69% majority of housing units are valued between $50,000 and $100,000. 19% are valued less than $50,000, and the remaining 12% are valued over $100,000. This is indicative of the aged housing stock, an oversupply of housing, smaller houses, and the prevalence of multi-family housing.

Syracuse Home

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Housing Age The City was largely built up by the early 1900s. This is an important reference point in that much of the housing stock that stood then is still standing today. Around 48% of the Citys housing stock was built in 1939 or earlier.

Housing Vacancy Rate

Map 24

The area built out by 1939, however, mirrors in many respects the areas in need of revitalization as defined by todays standards, as shown on Map 24. The aging housing stock is the least expensive in the county, attracting a high concentration of public and subsidized housing. It is also the first to fall out of the delinquencies, foreclosures, abandonments and demolitions. The presence of unmarketable 2-3 unit rental properties, as well as larger multifamily properties, helps to drive these problems and undermines the value of neighboring single-family properties.

Lead Paint Older homes also present environmental health concerns related to the presence of lead paint. The City is actively working to resolve lead paint issues in City housing through a variety of programs, though it still remains a prevalent problem. Revitalization The City of Syracuse is taking aggressive steps to combat the out-migration of residents and businesses, and to rehabilitate and revitalize the Citys housing stock. Each year, through an entitlement grant from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development, the City of Syracuse is awarded an allocation of funding towards improving its housing stock. In addition, with funding assistance from the federal government, as well as local private contributions, the Syracuse Neighborhood Initiative was established in 2000, implementing a variety of approaches to stabilize the City housing market and position City neighborhoods to successfully compete for investment. An important focus of the first phase of the Neighborhood Initiative was to address the aging housing stock in the City. The City partnered with neighborhood groups to identify hundreds of blighted properties for rehabilitation - the preferred option for preservation of urban densities - or

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demolition. Later phases have concentrated on preservation of owner equity in properties, and the development of neighborhood plans for revitalization. New urban housing in Downtown and the Lakefront Area is also being encouraged as emerging markets for empty nesters and smaller households. Commercial Land Uses Commercial uses account for approximately 16% of the land area in the City. Commercial uses vary from downtown office buildings, to neighborhood retail and service storefronts, to large regional centers. Strategic Areas There are several distinct commercial areas, or areas where commercial growth is encouraged. The Downtown, Lakefront and University Hill Areas hold the greatest concentration of current and potential development, and has been referred to as Syracuses commercial Crescent. The area on the southern edge of the City near Interstates 81 and 481 presents an additional land area marketable for new development. In addition, several commercial corridors and neighborhood centers are identified as strategic areas for economic Hanover Square development within the City of Syracuse. Lakefront Strategic Area There have been significant changes and improvements within the Lakefront District over the last 10 years. This District has become a dominant contributor to the economic, cultural and social fabric of the City of Syracuse. This district is a destination for retail, entertainment, recreation and regional transportation. Included within this District are the Carousel Center, P&C Stadium, CNY Regional Farmers Market, Inner Harbor and Regional Transportation Center. There are ongoing plans for even more retail, travel and entertainment opportunities as well as recreational adventures through the proposed new DestiNY USA resort center. Downtown Strategic Area The Downtown Strategic Area encompasses the center of the Central Business District as well as the Historic Armory Square. The center of Downtown is traditionally the heart of the City. It is the center for City government as well as the daily destination for many professional workers. Armory Square provides opportunities for retail shopping, entertainment and recreation, which are set to an urban beat. University Hill Strategic Area The University Hill Strategic Area is comprised of an extensive healthcare complex, an educational complex, strong neighborhood commercial centers and vibrant residential neighborhoods. The healthcare complex includes University Hospital, Crouse Hospital, Veterans Administration

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Hospital, medical professional offices and medical support services. The educational complex includes Syracuse University and State University of New York School of Environmental Science and Forestry. Within this area City residents can find dynamic opportunities in employment, education, housing and recreation. Interchange Strategic Area This area of the City primarily supports commercial businesses and light industry. There is great potential for economic growth in the area. This district is physically defined by the interchange involving Interstates 81 and 481. This interchange provides quick access to the federal interstate system that can accommodate regional transportation needs. Neighborhood Strategic Areas The City is comprised of neighborhoods which represent a variety of communities within the City. Although each community has its own specific issues and assets, the communities collectively share similar issues and assets that speak to the larger community of the City of Syracuse. The neighborhoods and corridors will be addressed from a Citywide perspective Corridors Certain primary and secondary corridors have been identified as the roadways and arterials that significantly contribute to the function of the City. The primary corridors are: North Salina Street South Salina Street James Street Erie Boulevard West Genesee Street East Genesee Street West Seneca Turnpike The secondary corridors are: West Fayette Street Geddes Street Onondaga Street Butternut Street Lodi Street Teall Avenue Westcott Street Midler Avenue Seeley Road South Avenue West Brighton Avenue Valley Drive

Strategic Areas & Corridors

Map 25 Source: Clough Harbour LLP, City of Syracuse

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Economic Development Incentives Efforts are being made to preserve the competitiveness of the smaller retail establishments in the City for convenience to residents, and to enhance neighborhood identity. Incentives available to businesses tend to be in the form of gap financing, streetscape enhancements or other infrastructure improvements to lure and retain businesses in corridors or districts. Project Site Review Some retail sites have come to represent quality of life concerns for neighborhoods. Corner stores and used car sales and repair shops have drawn the most complaints. Parking lot configuration and pedestrian access have also been contentious for commercial businesses locating in the City. For this reason, placement and design of these uses must be carefully considered in light of the surrounding neighborhood and its affect on that neighborhoods appearance. The City is currently progressing the development of a site plan review process for almost all commercial structures, as a part of zoning review. This project site plan review will look at projects in terms of the context of the existing landscape, access to and from the site, and conformance to existing neighborhood land use or revitalization plans. Architecture & Historic Preservation The City is both fortunate and plagued by its age. One of the most important benefits of having a City almost two centuries old is its wealth of historic architecture. Detailed in depth in The Preservation Component of the City of Syracuse Comprehensive Plan, an impressive array of architectural styles are represented in the City some lost to disinvestments and neglect, some preserved to their original grandeur. The primary local mechanism for historic preservation in the City currently occurs through the Syracuse Landmark Preservation Ordinance, which has designated 32 local protected sites and three Armory Square local preservation districts in the City to date. The rich architectural heritage in Syracuse is one that should be preserved and celebrated, from residences designed by famed architect Ward Wellington Ward to the imposing Art Deco style Niagara Mohawk building. Brownfields One downfall of our urban development has been that of years of industrial pollution. Dating to the days of salt manufacturing, sites scattered throughout the City, including most notably Onondaga Inner Harbor Lake, have also been polluted through years of unregulated dumping and chemical leakage. Known as brownfields, these former industrial sites have become a liability for the City and an obstacle for redevelopment on several key properties.

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The City often works together with property owners, the Department of Environmental Conservation and the federal government to resolve industrial pollution and to clean up these sites, many of which area vacant, for productive use. A high concentration of brownfield sites occurs in the Lakefront Area, formerly the Citys industrial core, and connection to the Barge Canal. However, successful remediation of many of these properties is currently taking place, and sites are being cleaned and reclaimed for public use. Findings: Land use development has followed a hub and spoke system, with Downtown as its commercial core, surrounded by housing. Preservation of Downtown as the activity center is critical to preservation of housing marketability and stability. The City is the Countys Central Business core, with a downtown business district and neighborhood based commercial corridors, and a large supply of housing. The City of Syracuse offers a wide array of housing options, including multi family and high-rise housing; however with population declines and migration of residents and businesses to the suburbs, an oversupply of housing is evident. A shortage of public housing units for low-income households exists in Syracuse. Overall, the amount of acreage devoted to residential uses has risen slightly, while residential density has fallen. Historic properties in Syracuse are plentiful, reflecting a wide variety of architectural styles and add character to downtown and neighborhoods all over the City. Brownfields create a competitive disadvantage in marketing vacant properties within the City of Syracuse.

Source: City of Syracuse Consolidated Plan 2003-04. Department of Community Development.

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