Pike Block

On January 21, 2010 the Metropolitan Development Association (MDA), the City of Syracuse, Adapt CNY, and VIP Development Associates announced the historic redevelopment of the corner of South Salina Street and West Fayette Street, anchored by the historic Witherill Building.

The proposed project comprises four adjacent downtown Syracuse buildings; the Chamberlin Building, Witherill Building, Wilson Building and Bond Building. Located at perhaps the most important intersection in downtown Syracuse, the Pike Block project sits in what is called the "Heart of Downtown." The project entails the purchase of the four properties, selective demolition, their renovation and integration followed by the leasing of 78 one, two and three bedroom apartments and retail space.

Located at 115 West Fayette St., the Chamberlin Building anchors one end of the project. To the east of the Chamberlin Building located at 300 So. Salina St. is the Witherill Building. To the south of Witherill on Salina Street are the next two buildings in the project, the Wilson and Bond buildings.

Architecture for the project will be performed by VIP Architectural Associates, PLLC. Of particular challenge will be the physical incorporation of the buildings, recognition of the historic aspects of the buildings, and integration of the project with nearby Armory Square. Urban planners see the project as continued development and outgrowth of Armory Square. Growth of Armory Square has pushed beyond the district's original boundaries. VIP Development Associates plans for the Pike Block project to appeal to those seeking the urban lifestyle associated with Armory Square.

The project will develop 130,000 sq. ft. of residential and retail space. The steady growth of the downtown housing market is reason for developers to initiate this project. Retail space is planned for the street level in all buildings with interesting retail opportunities available in the proposed courtyard that will open up a connection between Clinton Street and Salina Street. There has already been significant interest for retail space within the Pike Block.

Plans for parking for residents and retail traffic include the nearby Armory Parking Garage on Clinton Street, which is accessible via a walk through the courtyards behind the buildings involved in the project; plus the Atrium Garage located at 201 No. Franklin St. and an open surface lot at the corner of W. Fayette St. and So. Clinton Street.

Major construction financing for the project will be provided by a consortium of local banks, all sharing in the investment and future economic growth of the downtown market. Developers will also take advantage of federal and state historical tax credits. Additional incentives and grants from the State of New York, City of Syracuse, Onondaga County, the Downtown Committee and National Grid complete the financing package. Permanent project financing will be taken over by Community Preservation Corp. (CPC), a not-for-profit corporation specializing in funding for development projects that seek to improve inner city neighborhoods and business districts.