Moving Forward: Mayor Owens Outlines Vision For The Future of Syracuse

Speaking from the auditorium of William Nottingham High School, Syracuse Mayor Sharon F. Owens delivered her first State of the City address, outlining her administration’s priorities in housing, job creation, workforce development, transportation, public safety and fiscal stewardship.

“Our past is our foundation; our vision will be our legacy. And that vision is clear: a fiscally stable City, a Syracuse that leads, a Syracuse where every person has a place to live, work and play. Where people are safe, housed and prosperous in every neighborhood”, said Mayor Owens.  “My vision is for a Syracuse that is the best place to raise a family, build a life, and grow a business - and together we can make it happen.”

Mayor Owens emphasized her commitment to expanding affordable housing options throughout Syracuse. She highlighted that 1,000 housing units are currently under construction, offering a mix of market-rate and affordable rental homeownership opportunities. These projects include the first two phases of the East Adams Neighborhood Transformation, the renovation of the Chimes Building, and redevelopment of the Syracuse Developmental Center. She also shared the pledge by New York State for 52 more homes under the Move-In NY program.

Mayor Owens reaffirmed Syracuse’s commitment to addressing climate change through the Sustainable Syracuse Initiative. She discussed building smarter, more resilient systems that protect neighborhoods, infrastructure, and families for generations to come. As part of these efforts, the City will release its first comprehensive Climate Action Plan, setting a clear path toward sustainability and resilience.

To improve responsiveness and enhance resident support, Mayor Owens also highlighted the creation of the Constituent Assistance Resource Employees (C.A.R.E.) Team. This team will include key staff members dedicated to human services and will work alongside Cityline staff to provide more efficient and comprehensive responses to constituent issues.

Mayor Owens stressed the importance of creating employment opportunities for Syracuse residents to build household income and generational wealth. She outlined plans to work with community partners to reduce barriers to job access and financial stability, providing real pathways out of poverty. Owens highlighted economic opportunities stemming from Micron’s investments and shared her vision for transforming the Inner Harbor and Lakefront area into a dense, urban and walkable neighborhood.

Mayor Owens also shared a tentative agreement with the Syracuse Police Benevolent Association to pilot a program temporarily pausing the residency requirement for new recruits. She also outlined new training initiatives, including the launch of one of New York State’s few command schools for Lieutenants and Captains, designed to strengthen community partnerships, enhance problem-solving, and promote sound policing practices. Additionally, the Department will introduce panel discussions with local leaders, clergy, and activists to provide officers, and first-time academy recruits, critical insight into the historical context of policing in Syracuse. These efforts aim to foster stronger relationships and deepen the understanding of law enforcement’s social impact.

Mayor Owens reaffirmed her commitment to lead Syracuse with compassion, honesty, and accountability, emphasizing that the city stands at a pivotal moment in its history.