Leaders in Utica announced they are ready to make sure a downtown hospital is built.

Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri and Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente say they are prepared to use eminent domain to acquire properties in the project's footprint, which also includes properties in the parking garage's footprint.

Officials say three of the property owners have shown an unwillingness to sell.

The determination to use eminent domain was necessary to take the next step with the state.

Leaders hope it will help accelerate the timetable for the more than $300-million project.