Community Grid Vision Plan

The City of Syracuse continues to work in close partnership with the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) and the I-81 Project Team to ensure the Community Grid serves all people — whether traveling by foot, bicycle, transit, or vehicle.

Through sustained coordination and community input, the City has helped advance meaningful improvements that strengthen neighborhood connections, improve safety, and expand multimodal access across the corridor.

Physically Separated Shared-Use Path – North Clinton Street

A new shared-use path along North Clinton Street will provide a safe, physically separated connection between Downtown and the Lakefront neighborhood, improving access for cyclists, pedestrians, and families.

Reconnected Northside Neighborhoods

As bridges at Butternut Street, Court Street, and Spencer Street are reconstructed, the City has worked to incorporate stronger multimodal connections across these corridors, improving access between Northside neighborhoods and Downtown.

Protected Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities – Brighton Avenue

Brighton Avenue will include physically protected bicycle infrastructure and enhanced pedestrian facilities to improve safety and comfort for all users.

Downtown and Creekwalk Connections – West Street Corridor

The redesign of the West Street corridor will create new connections between Downtown and the Creekwalk area, improving accessibility and supporting economic activity, recreation, and neighborhood connectivity

Empire State Trail & Lodi Street Connections

New and enhanced connections between Lodi Street, Erie Boulevard East, and the existing Empire State Trail will strengthen regional access. Improvements include upgraded intersection treatments and the potential expansion of the existing cycle track.

Improved Access to and from the Downtown Core

Multi-modal improvements throughout the grid will include:

• Physically separated bicycle infrastructure
• Shorter pedestrians crossing distances at signalized intersections
• Safer, more visible crosswalk designs
• Traffic-calming features that support walkability and safety

Collaborative Planning for an Inclusive Grid

City departments have worked closely with NYSDOT and state partners to ensure the Community Grid reflects community priorities and supports equitable access. This coordination has resulted in:

• Stronger neighborhood-to-neighborhood connectivity

• Safer crossings in historically disconnected areas

• Expanded access to employment centers, parks, schools, and waterfront destinations

• Infrastructure designed to serve residents of all ages and abilities

These improvements reflect years of planning, environmental review, and community engagement. The City remains committed to ensuring the Community Grid enhances safety, nobility, and opportunity for everyone who lives, works, and visits Syracuse.