BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- Transforming a major roadway in Binghamton is still in the beginning stages, but officials want to hear from the community before moving forward.

The state Department of Transportation proposed the Route 363 Gateway Project to the public Monday night. It focuses on redesigning the area from Washington to Court Streets.

Officials hope it will improve access to the city, downtown area and river, by adding bike and pedestrian trails. 

The project will be funded by Governor Andrew Cuomo's $59 million investment to keep the Southern Tier Soaring. 

Mayor Rich David says this is a rare opportunity for the city. While residents agree, they say there could be complications along the way. 

"It's going to be a difficult task," said Ezra Jackson, a Binghamton resident. "We're hoping that whatever they come up with will be safety for kids in the neighborhood and beautifying Susquehanna Street."

"You have the oppurtunity to redesign a portion of your city and with that there are ancillary benefits," David said. "Especially if you can take pieces of land that have previously been inaccessible for development and now you could redevelop those areas." 

The DOT will collect public comments until February 9. They plan to start construction by 2020.