“I think the stars have aligned to make a big difference in downtown Elmira," said architect Elise Johnson-Schmidt.
Officials are taking steps to give the city a much-needed makeover.
“We could make it very pedestrian-oriented, and comfortable -- a place to have lunch, walk and enjoy shopping, but also have nice landscaping,” said Johnson-Schmidt.
Tapping into state money for upstate revitalization, officials will be renovating several different areas downtown. Johnson-Schmidt is one of the architects behind the plan.
Her specialty is downtown revitalization projects. She played a big role in turning Corning’s Market Street into what it is today.
“It has been such a rewarding experience," said Johnson-Schmidt. "It has become a very thriving downtown in comparison to what it was in the mid-90s … and we want to see the same kind of thing going on in Elmira.”
North Main Street in Elmira is one of the areas being looked at for renovations. Architects say its current state is dismal, but that it has so much potential. The focus of the project will be on West Water Street, where they will be constructing a four-story residential and retail building.
Officials say they hope this will attract businesses and residents to the city.
“I think it’s one more piece of that puzzle, albeit a very big piece,” said Southern Tier Economic Growth President Mike Krusen, "because I think it could turn the image of downtown around if we’re successful in building the kind of quality location that we’re trying to build."
“People want to have pride of place -- so people like living in a community where there’s activity, and it’s vibrant and things are happening," said Johnson-Schmidt.
The project is expected to cost $20 million. Officials hope to have an agreement signed with a developer in the next month.