The City of Rochester is pleased to announce that the parking lot at the former Ben Franklin property, located at 60 Wakefield Street, is open and available for public use. The lot features new night sky-compliant lighting and more than 100 parking spaces, including several spaces for motorcycles.

In April, City Council voted to unseal minutes from prior nonpublic meetings regarding the property. After determining that purchasing the property was not an option, the City entered into a 10-year lease agreement. The lease covers the use of both the building and parking lot, helping to address concerns about downtown parking availability.

A survey conducted by the City Manager’s Parking Review Group highlighted that 70% of respondents faced challenges with finding nearby parking. The new parking lot aims to ease these concerns, especially with the upcoming refurbishment of the Union Street lot, slated to begin in spring 2025.

Click here to watch a recent update regarding downtown parking.

Economic Development Director Michael Scala says that parking remains the priority for downtown businesses and residents. Future plans for the former Ben Franklin building, which may include revenue-generating opportunities, will continue to be explored.