Syracuse, NY, October 14, 2025
News Summary
Parkside Commons in Syracuse is set for major redevelopment, featuring nearly 200 new affordable apartments and renovations of existing units. This initiative aims to enhance safety and living conditions after recent crime incidents. Led by Parkside Commons Ventures LLC, the project is currently in planning stages and requires government funding and approvals. If successful, renovations could begin in 2026, addressing the complex’s long-standing issues of poverty and safety. Current residents may need to temporarily relocate during renovations.
Syracuse, NY is set to undergo significant changes as the owners of Parkside Commons announce an extensive redevelopment plan aimed at transforming the troubled housing complex located on the city’s East Side. The project includes the construction of nearly 200 new affordable apartments, alongside renovations of 200 existing units and the demolition of four deteriorated buildings within the 10-building campus.
This phased project is currently in the early planning stages and requires substantial government funding and regulatory approvals to become a reality. If successful, the initiative seeks to tackle persistent issues related to crime and poverty that have long affected the area. Parkside Commons Ventures LLC, which consists of two affordable housing companies from Brooklyn and Baltimore, is leading the rehabilitation effort.
Currently, Parkside Commons provides rent-subsidized housing for more than 900 residents, including many families with children. However, the complex has been plagued by security concerns. Recent incidents include two homicides and a significant drug bust reported in May, raising alarms about the safety of the location.
The project aims not only to improve housing conditions but also to create a more diverse resident demographic through the addition of both market-rate and workforce housing. This change is expected to enhance community safety and overall quality of life. Plans for renovations include upgrades to security, new roofing, improved interior finishes, plumbing, mechanical work, and landscaping. Some current tenants may be required to temporarily relocate during renovations.
New construction is planned for a five-story mixed-use building consisting of 143 units, along with a four-story structure that will accommodate 50 units at the corner of Fayette and Westmoreland. Ongoing discussions are being held regarding the acquisition of land parcels from the Greater Syracuse Land Bank and other property owners to facilitate the construction of these new buildings.
The buildings identified for demolition have been classified as high-crime areas and their removal is part of a broader strategy to enhance the neighborhood’s safety and quality of life. Parkside Commons Ventures acquired the property for $26 million last year with the goal of improving the overall living conditions for residents.
While city officials, including Michael Collins, the commissioner of neighborhood and business development, express cautious optimism, state officials are also showing support and expect potential funding approvals to be in place by mid-2026. On October 20, a site plan approval request will be submitted to the City Planning Commission as a step towards moving the project forward.
The entire redevelopment effort is part of a larger initiative focusing on alleviating poverty concentration and fostering safety improvements across Syracuse. Renovations are anticipated to commence in the first half of 2026, assuming the financing closes in the spring of 2025, laying the groundwork for what could be a transformative change for Parkside Commons and its community.
Key Project Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Apartments | Nearly 200 |
| Renovated Units | 200 existing units |
| Buildings to be Demolished | 4 severely deteriorated buildings |
| New Construction Details | 5-story building (143 units) & 4-story building (50 units) |
| Management | Parkside Commons Ventures LLC |
| Target Completion for Renovations | First half of 2026 |
| Property Acquisition | Land from Greater Syracuse Land Bank & others |
FAQ
What is Parkside Commons?
Parkside Commons is a rent-subsidized housing complex located on Syracuse’s East Side, currently housing over 900 residents.
What does the redevelopment plan entail?
The redevelopment plan includes building nearly 200 new affordable apartments, renovating existing units, and demolishing four deteriorated buildings.
What is the timeline for the project?
The project is in the early planning stages, with renovations expected to begin in the first half of 2026, assuming financing closure in spring 2025.
How will the project address safety concerns?
The initiative plans to include security upgrades and demolish high-crime areas to improve safety in the community.
Will current tenants be affected during renovations?
Yes, some tenants may need to be temporarily relocated during the renovation process.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Syracuse.com: Owners’ Vision for Parkside Commons
- Wikipedia: Affordable Housing
- CNY Central: Five Arrested in Drug Bust at Parkside Commons
- Google Search: Parkside Commons Syracuse
- Syracuse.com: Man Shot Near Parkside Commons
- Google Scholar: Urban Renewal Housing Complexes
- Syracuse.com: Firefighters Rescue Five at Parkside Commons
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Housing Architecture
- Syracuse.com: New Owners of Notorious Syracuse Complex
- Google News: Redevelopment Housing Syracuse
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