Wednesday News Brief
Written by Pete Zehler on June 25, 2025
Batavia City Council Supports Group Attempting to Revive Continental Building
The Batavia City Council has endorsed a $500,000 grant application to support redevelopment of the vacant Continental School of Beauty building at 215 East Main Street, adjacent to the new Healthy Living Campus.
The project, led by local entrepreneurs Matt Gray and Paul Thompson, aims to transform the first floor into leasable commercial space and create 8 to 12 market-rate apartments. Gray said the team is ready to begin construction later this year, with commercial units expected to be completed by mid-2026.
The grant application is being submitted through the Batavia Development Corporation, which has successfully managed multiple downtown revitalization projects. BDC Director Tammy Hathaway emphasized the project’s readiness and the city’s need for more housing as key advantages in the grant process.
Gray and his team—also including Matt Boyd and members of Thompson Builds Inc.—closed on the property in May and expect the $1 million project to significantly enhance downtown Batavia’s growth and walkability.
Council moved the grant endorsement to a future business meeting.
Bridge Today
Looking for a fun afternoon activity? Bridge is happening today, Wednesday, June 25th, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Office for the Aging, located at 2 Bank Street in Batavia.
All skill levels are welcome to join this friendly card game gathering. It’s a great way to stay sharp, socialize, and enjoy some midweek fun.
Hydrant Flushing
Hydrant flushing continues today, Wednesday, June 25, in Batavia. The City Fire Department will be flushing hydrants from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in areas south of East Main Street and east of Jackson Street.
Nearby homes and businesses may notice temporary water discoloration. If so, avoid washing clothes and run cold water until it clears.
The annual testing ensures hydrants work properly and helps maintain Batavia’s ISO fire protection rating. For questions, call 585-345-6375.
Project Scheduled to Start in Darien Next Week
The Genesee County Department of Public Works has announced a road closure in Darien for the Richley Road Bridge Replacement Project. Beginning Monday, June 30, a portion of Richley Road will be closed between Simonds Road and Harper Road to allow for the replacement of a bridge over Murder Creek.
The existing culvert structure will be replaced with a new precast concrete, three-sided rigid frame bridge with a 35-foot clear span—an upgrade designed to improve long-term safety and durability.
A signed detour will be in place directing drivers to use Simonds, Harper, and Sumner roads. The closed portion of Richley Road will not be accessible to through traffic until construction wraps up, which is expected by October.
Officials ask for the public’s patience and cooperation as this vital infrastructure project moves forward.
Food Distribution
City Church is hosting a food distribution event today, at 11 a.m. at the St. Anthony’s Community Center, located at 114 Liberty Street in Batavia.
Volunteers are asked to arrive by 10 a.m. to help with setup. The event is part of City Church’s ongoing effort to support local families in need.
Wayne County Man Charged with Attempted Murder
13WHAM News reports, a Wayne County man is facing serious charges after a random stabbing in Perinton Monday morning. Deputies say 30-year-old Derrick Van Epps of Palmyra attacked a man from behind while walking on a trail near Route 31 around 11:50 a.m.
The victim was knocked to the ground and stabbed multiple times with a hunting knife but is now in stable condition with non-life-threatening injuries.
Van Epps was later spotted driving nearby and taken into custody at Egypt Park. He’s charged with second-degree attempted murder and assault and is being held in Monroe County Jail on $50,000 bail. Deputies say he acted alone.
