Community Members

Syracuse University and the City of Syracuse entered into the “Street Closing Agreement,” in 1993 when the University paid the city $2 million for the acquisition and permanent ownership of College Place and University Place and sections of South Crouse, University, and Euclid avenues. For two years prior to purchasing the streets, the University leased the streets for $250,000 per year on a trial basis.

What led to the Street Closing Agreement?

In 1989, responding to dangerous road conditions surrounding SU on College Place and University Place, the University proposed limiting access to these roads and making improvements to Waverly and Comstock avenues to accommodate excess traffic at the University’s expense. At that time, traffic on College and University places exceeded 1,000 vehicles per hour; under the University’s proposal, traffic would be reduced to 300 cars per hour, making streets safer for pedestrians.

Between 1991 and 1992, the University rented these streets for $250,000 per year. During this time, SU controlled traffic on College Place and University Place from 7am-9pm and during special events. To accommodate increased traffic flow on surrounding streets, the University widened Comstock and Waverly avenues from one lane to two lanes, input traffic lights, and offset restricted parking between Irving and Comstock avenues with additional parking garages. These improvements also contributed to pedestrian safety.

Following the trial years, the University officially purchased these streets for $2 million and is now responsible for all street maintenance—including snow removal.