ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- The City of Elmira has voted to allow a local development company take over the upkeep of Clemens Square. With plans for new businesses and restaurants for the site in the future, city officials say they're hopeful this new agreement with '100 Clemens Square LLC' will keep things looking fresh and clean.
"Capriotti Properties will be responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of Clemens Square, which would include, during the winter months, plowing, putting salt down. During spring summer, getting flowers trees, taking care of all the landscaping," said Elmira City Manager Mike Collins.
The agreement says that the city will pay 100 Clemens Square LLC a maximum of $12,000 a year to maintain the square. Capriotti Properties will cover any additional costs. Currently, the city is responsible for upkeep. As it stands now, there's some over-grown landscaping and disrepair in the square.
"Our buildings and grounds department is fully staffed, but I think what everybody needs to realize is, that within the city of Elmira, we have over 20 plus parks that they're responsible for when it comes to mowing, so this is extremely beneficial to the city. It will make that area clean and attractive and neat," said Collins.
The new agreement is for 25 years, unless further noted. Plans are currently in the works for Centertown Social venue in Clemens Square, as well as several other new businesses and restaurants.
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