Jackson Square Design is Complete
Written by Dan Fischer on May 20, 2021
News Release
A transformative project in the center of Downtown Batavia will advance towards construction in the next few months. The Jackson Square revitalization project has completed preliminary design after numerous public engagement and stakeholder meetings.
On October 6, 2018, Governor Cuomo announced eight transformational projects for Downtown Batavia as part of $10 Million Downton Revitalization Initiative (DRI). Enhancing Jackson Square was one of the eight projects chosen to receive a strategic investment grant of $750,000 to transform public space in a public plaza.
“The upgraded public plaza will become a lively hub and common space for community interaction, and provide connections to multiple businesses through its unique configuration. As we continue to recover from the pandemic, I am happy to see the City complete this project and be able to offer citizens and visitors a unique experience in downtown Batavia,” said Eugene Jankowski Jr., City of Batavia Council President and DRI Co-Chair.
Jackson Square, a public gathering space bordered by historic buildings in the heart of downtown will be transformed with decorative pavement upgrades, a professional multi-purpose stage, seating, lighting, and decorative signage.
“Jackson Square is a hidden gem in the City of Batavia, currently hosting lively concerts and urban events. After the project is complete the Square will bring in more opportunities for the community to gather creating a downtown neighborhood,” said Steve Hyde, CEO of the Genesee County Economic Development Center and Co-Chair of the Batavia DRI.
Architectural Resources, the architectural firm selected to design the project, will advance the project into final design, engineering and permitting. The project is on schedule to go out to bid this winter 2021 and construction finishing in the spring of 2022.
“We received feedback from the residents, the Batavia Business Improvement District (BID), Batavia Development Corporation (BDC), adjoining building owners, and users of the square. The pavement and lighting elements will give a square a historical feel in a unique urban setting,” said Rachael Tabelski, City of Batavia City Manager.
The concept integrates many historical layers of Batavia including the Great Bend- changing the trajectory of the Tonawanda Creek, the Ancient Seneca Footpaths, and the history of “old” downtown Batavia
“The BID was engaged throughout the entire process including selecting the design firm, reviewing and refining the project. The adjacent building owners were consulted, as well as the multiple users of the square to advance the project. Jackson Square will continue to drive community events and business to downtown Batavia,” said Beth Kemp, Executive Director of the BID.
Input received at each of the two public meeting informed the design of Jackson Square. The design of the stage and canopy was revised based on suggestions that were made during the second public meeting.
