As the revitalization of Utica continues, another project was announced on Thursday. The Mayro Building, a staple of downtown since 1915, is being renovated. The iconic building is being redone to create 47 apartments and office and retail space. For Mayor Robert Palmieri, maintaining the community feel of Utica is the priority.
“It’s what we are, it’s our fiber," he said. "We are a very strong community. We’re a very diverse community. We’re a very loving and giving community. The minute you’re here you’ll feel like this is your home.
The Mayro Building used to be the spot of businesses and restaurants. Over the years it has been abandoned and needs significant reinvestment. Palmieri’s excitement of this project was evident, constantly praising everyone involved. He says for a long time he felt Utica wasn’t what it could be, but now he’s thankful for the people contributing to its revitalization.
“I always thought we missed an opportunity here and it’s really wonderful to bring people together," Palmieri said. "To understand the gem that we really have it just took people believing into it and bringing pride back into our city."
The Lahinch Group, a development firm from Syracuse, will lead this process. They hope to begin demo work in two to three months and are shooting for twelve months of construction. This adds another milestone for the future of Utica, which Palmieri is confident about.
“This will be the best little city in America,” he said.