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

BREAKING: The city of Binghamton has officially announced the closing date for the deteriorating State Street Garage, confirming it will shut down on January 5, 2025. This 12-level structure, a fixture of the downtown area since its opening in June 1970, is set to be demolished later this year as part of ongoing safety and development initiatives.

The decision, made by Mayor Jared Kraham, comes after months of speculation surrounding the garage’s future. The structure has been plagued by significant deterioration, prompting city officials to prioritize safety and urban renewal. The demolition process is expected to take several months, creating a potential disruption for regular users of the facility.

In response to the closure, LAZ Parking, which operates the garage under contract with the city, is actively working to find alternative parking solutions for those currently holding monthly passes. As of now, the city has not disclosed how many monthly parkers will need to be relocated. Monthly parkers can reach LAZ Parking for assistance at (607) 759-1026.

The city has invested millions in repairs to maintain the safety of the garage over recent years, yet the decision to demolish reflects a broader strategy to enhance downtown infrastructure. Following the garage’s removal, a surface parking lot is expected to be available at the corner of State and Henry streets, offering some relief for displaced parkers.

Mayor Kraham mentioned that the parcel could eventually be repurposed for “future downtown economic development opportunities,” emphasizing the potential for revitalization in the area.

Residents and commuters should prepare for changes as the city transitions away from this aging facility. With two other city-owned parking garages nearby—one on Water Street next to Boscov’s department store and another at 7 Hawley Street—alternative parking options remain available. Additionally, a surface lot at Collier and Hawley streets, across from Governmental Plaza, provides further choices for local drivers.

Stay tuned for more updates as Binghamton navigates this significant change in its parking infrastructure. For breaking news and updates, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.