City Hall sidewalk, stair, and areaway replacement & repair project
About
Built in 1886, City Hall is a premier example of the Richardsonian Romanesque style of architecture.
The original building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 and designated as a local landmark by the City in 1973. In 1976, the building underwent a series of improvements, including the addition of the B Building to the north, and in 1982 sidewalks were converted from concrete to brick paver and other amenities that comprise the City Hall complex we see today.
Learn more: Rochester City Hall history & architecture
Contact:
Andy Wojewodzic, Manager of Construction
Project scope
Due to age and heavy use, the sidewalks and surrounding site features have deteriorated, leading to structural concerns, water infiltration, and accessibility issues.
This project, funded through the city's Capital Improvement Program, will bring the sidewalks and building entrances into compliance with modern accessibility and safety standards as well as update the streetscape to address deficiencies and replace outdated elements.
Key improvements include:
- Sidewalk and curb replacement – Existing brick paver sidewalks and old curb ramps will be replaced with concrete sidewalks featuring an even, stable surface that complies with federal accessibility guidelines. Decorative accents will incorporate red and brown Medina stone aggregate, complementing City Hall’s historic aesthetic.
- Granite stair replacement – The public entrance stairs on Church Street and the exit stairs on North Fitzhugh Street will be replaced with new granite stairs meeting New York state building code requirements for width, height, slope, and railing compliance.
- Areaway repairs – Structural repairs, infills, and waterproofing will address hidden areaways around City Hall, mitigating moisture infiltration and preventing further structural deterioration.
- Tree replacements – Aging trees will be replaced with Skyline honeylocust and serviceberry trees in enlarged tree pits to reduce root intrusion under sidewalks. Tree placement will also support security by maintaining clear sightlines.
- Bike shelter and racks – A new covered bike shelter will be installed at the northwest corner of City Hall, along with additional bike racks to improve bicycle accessibility.
- Street lighting replacement – Outdated street lighting will be replaced with LED fixtures matching the lighting on State Street and Allen Street.
- Road milling and resurfacing – Church Street (between North Fitzhugh and Pindle Alley) and North Fitzhugh Street (between Church Street and Allen Street) will undergo curb replacements, milling, and resurfacing.
Project phasing
The project will be completed in three phases, followed by general milling and paving of adjacent streets. The schedules below are tentative and subject to change:
Phase 1
April–July 2025
Construction along North Fitzhugh Street. Building access will be maintained via Church Street and North Fitzhugh, with limited parking.
Phase 2
July 2025
Construction at the corner of Church Street and North Fitzhugh. Building access remains unchanged, with limited parking.
Phase 3
August–October 2025
Construction along Church Street. Building access will be limited to the North Fitzhugh entrance, and parking will shift to North Fitzhugh.
Final milling and resurfacing
October 2025
Street resurfacing work.
Anticipated project completion
November 2025
Barring any unforseen circumstances, all work is expected to be substantially complete.
Parking information
During construction, free 30-minute parking will be available at the Sister Cities Garage during business hours.
Historic preservation review
This project was reviewed by the Division for Historic Preservation of the Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation, with no concerns identified. The Preservation Board approved the project at its January 2023 hearing.
Construction updates and contact information
Click here to view the Phase 1 Construction Notice
For the latest updates, visit the City of Rochester Street Beat webpage.
For questions or additional information, contact:
- Resident project representative
- Jeremy Kimble: 585-427-0320 ext. 16 or Jeremy@vaneng.com