For Immediate Release: August 12, 2021

MAYOR PALMIERI ANNOUNCES PROPOSAL TO PURCHASE MAJOR COMMERCIAL PROPERTY IN DOWNTOWN UTICA

Mayor Palmieri today announced the City of Utica’s Urban Renewal Agency (URA) approved an application from Michael Pezzolanella to purchase the former home of Northland Communications (315-317 Court Street) in downtown Utica for $400,000.  The final sale is contingent on approval by the Common Council.

The property encompasses a 40,000 square foot, 4-story building, as well as six parking spaces.

Since taking ownership of the property, URA’s maintained it at a continual and substantive cost.  Selling the building to a reputable, private developer eliminates maintenance costs, increases revenue and expands the city’s tax base.

The proposal includes building renovations for office space on the ground floor and approximately 24 upscale apartments on the upper floors.  A major factor in URA’s decision was the applicant’s ownership of properties adjacent to 315-317 Court Street, including the bordering parking lot which will accommodate the parking needs of the proposed project.

Mayor Palmieri stated, “The city continues to move forward.  Our Administration has worked diligently to build relationships with national, regional and local developers.  As a result, we are witnessing unprecedented investment and growth throughout our city.  

Mayor Palmieri continued, “Mike Pezzolanella has a strong track record in redeveloping vacant properties, attracting businesses and creating jobs.  I thank him for investing in our community.”

Michael Pezzolanella stated, “We are so excited about the acquisition of this new property and to help contribute to Utica’s continued revitalization.”