City of Rochester
News Release
(Friday, Feb. 2, 2024) – The City of Rochester was awarded two Project of the Year Awards by the Genesee Valley Branch of the American Public Works Association at their 39th Annual Awards Banquet on January 25, 2024. The awards, granted for West River Wall improvements at the Genesee River and the East Main Street reconstruction project, signify excellent management, administration, and implementation of public works projects.
“East Main and the West River Wall are just two of the many initiatives we’ve begun to enhance the functionality, beauty, and equity of our city spaces,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “The City of Rochester thanks the APWA for its recognition of the continued investments we’re making to improve our city for all.”
The West River Wall Improvements at The North Star Commons were completed in 2023. Part of the ROC the Riverway Initiative, the project focused on improving flood protection, enhancing public recreation spaces, and improving the visual and physical connections along our waterfront.
The area now houses a 500-foot-long naturalized shoreline, gathering spaces with pedestrian amenities, and bicycle lanes along Exchange Boulevard, among other additions. North Star Commons also features a new monument of Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln, created by local artist Olivia Kim.
This initiative was completed thanks to the City’s partnerships with Bergmann Associates; the New York State Canal Corporation; Ramsey Constructors; Lu Engineers; Popli, Architecture + Engineering; and Atlantic Testing Laboratories. Funding partners included the State of New York, the NYS Canal Corp., and Rochester Gas & Electric. Improvements were made in cooperation with the Corn Hill Neighborhood Association and Frederick Douglass Family Initiatives.
The second award was for the reconstruction of East Main Street between North Goodman Street and Culver Road. Part of a series of Complete Streets traffic calming measures, the East Main Street improvements include the installation of protected one-way bicycle lanes, pedestrian safety measures like shorter street crossings, and improved aesthetics features. The project involved extensive utility work, new pavement, and landscaping.
This initiative was completed in partnership with Villager Construction, Inc.; Erdman Anthony; Lu Engineers; Environmental Design & Research; and Bergman Associates. Funding partners include the State of New York, Monroe County, and Rochester Gas & Electric.
“These improvements highlight our dedication to resident and pedestrian safety and quality of life,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “The City of Rochester is, and will continue to be, committed to creating hope and delivering opportunity for people of all ages and abilities who live, work, and travel within our city.”
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The Administration of Mayor Malik D. Evans strives to create a safe, equitable and prosperous Rochester by inspiring hope and delivering opportunity for everyone. Guided by the Administration’s Mission, Vision and Values and the principles of the “Rochester 2034” comprehensive plan, City employees are committed to providing exceptional customer service, transparent stewardship, and collaborative leadership to foster a vibrant community that empowers personal, professional and generational growth for all who live, work or play in the city of Rochester.