400 members of the Downtown community – including property owners, businesses, residents and other stakeholders – convened for the 2022 Annual Meeting Luncheon of the Downtown Committee of Syracuse, Inc. Presented in partnership with Pathfinder Bank, this is the first time that the Downtown business community convened for such an occasion since June 2019.
In an exciting State of Downtown Report, Downtown Committee Executive Director Merike Treier highlighted the incredible growth that Downtown Syracuse has experienced this past year, and offered a preview of the projects that our community can look forward to in the next year. Some highlights from this address can be found in our 2021-2022 Annual Report, linked here. In addition to the State of Downtown address, another highlight of this afternoon’s meeting was the presentation of the Downtown Awards of Excellence, recognizing three individuals/organizations for their commitment to growth throughout Downtown Syracuse. Information about the winners is provided here, and in the accompanying press release.
- Urban Innovation Award: The Urban Innovation Award, given for a trailblazing activity that’s brought new attention – and energy – to a previously underdeveloped facet of Downtown Syracuse, highlighted Corbett Corner. Located at 444 E. Genesee Street, the project – led by Icon Companies – reinvigorated the corner of E. Genesee and S. Townsend Streets with 24 new studio and one-bedroom units, resulting in a dramatic change to Downtown’s eastern gateway.
- Heart of Downtown Award: The Heart of Downtown Award, given for efforts that positively impact the way people feel about Downtown Syracuse, was given to DARWIN, a beloved Downtown Syracuse lunch restaurant which embodies the message on their sign: Good Food, Good People. The DARWIN team strives to make everyone who walks through their doors feel welcome. The owners of the sandwich destination chose to open in Downtown Syracuse because they wanted to be part of its resurgence. Now, 12 years later, they help give Downtown its heartbeat by serving up innovation, comfort and conversation to customers.
- Perfect Partner: The Perfect Partner Award, is given to individuals, businesses, organizations and initiatives whose advocacy and commitment positively benefits Downtown Syracuse and our community as a whole. Downtown Syracuse is fortunate to have several active neighborhood associations. Throughout the 2021-2022 fiscal year, the Hanover Square Association was especially active. Comprised of residents and business owners who advocate for the neighborhood by organizing community events, beautification programs and ways that the district can connect, the Hanover Square Association takes its mission very seriously.
