Mayor Kraham Announces Free Parking in Downtown Binghamton on Saturdays in July

Initiative Aims to Support Small Businesses, Encourage Residents to Visit Downtown

(BINGHAMTON, N.Y.)—Mayor Jared M. Kraham on Thursday announced free parking in downtown Binghamton on Saturdays during the month of July.

Mayor Kraham said: "Downtown Binghamton is the heart of the Southern Tier, and there's no better time to visit than in the summer. This free parking initiative is aimed at supporting our small businesses and making it even easier for residents and visitors to enjoy all downtown has to offer. Come down and enjoy our shops and restaurants while taking advantage of free parking on weekends in July this summer."

The free parking initiative will run July 5, 12, 19, and 26. Parking downtown is already free on Sundays.

It includes free parking on all downtown streets, in the parking garages on Water Street, State Street and Hawley Street, and in the parking lot on Collier Street.

Historically, July has been the lowest-revenue month for parking in downtown Binghamton.

The free parking program stemmed from conversations between City officials and small business owners as a way to promote business during the summer months and increase foot traffic downtown.

Visitors can also participate in the City's "Passport to Washington Street" promotion and be entered for a chance to win a gift card to a local shop after visiting five small businesses on Washington Street.

The five businesses on the "Passport to Washington Street" are Garland Gallery, Goldenrod Studios, Mabel D. Orr, Stellar Human and Three of Cups Candle Co. Customers can visit any of these businesses to get a Passport.