Binghamton’s State Street Garage to Close January 5, 2025

UPDATE: The city of Binghamton has just announced the closing date for the aging State Street Garage, with operations ceasing on January 5, 2025. This significant move comes after months of speculation about the future of the 55-year-old public parking facility, which has been deemed unsafe and is set for demolition.

Officials confirmed that the 12-level structure, located south of the downtown bus station, will be torn down next year. The demolition process is expected to last several months, raising urgent concerns for the monthly parkers who rely on this facility. Mayor Jared Kraham stated that LAZ Parking, the company managing the garage, will assist in finding alternative parking options for affected users, although the exact number of monthly pass holders needing relocation remains unspecified.

The State Street Garage opened in June 1970 and has undergone millions of dollars in repairs to address its deteriorating condition. With four underground parking levels, the facility has been a cornerstone of downtown parking. However, safety concerns have led the city to prioritize its demolition.

In a recent statement, Kraham noted that the city will seek bids for the demolition work “in the coming weeks.” Once the garage is removed, several dozen parking spaces will be available in a surface lot at the corner of State and Henry streets, creating immediate options for displaced parkers.

This closure not only affects daily commuters but may also open doors for future economic development opportunities in the downtown area, as the parcel could be redeveloped for new projects. Monthly parkers seeking more information are encouraged to contact LAZ Parking at (607) 759-1026 for assistance.

For those relying on parking in downtown Binghamton, alternative facilities include city-owned garages on Water Street next to Boscov’s department store and at 7 Hawley Street. Additionally, a surface parking lot is available at Collier and Hawley streets, directly across from Governmental Plaza.

As the city prepares for this significant change, residents and commuters are urged to stay informed and plan accordingly. Follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter for real-time updates on this developing story and more breaking news.