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Senate Resolution No. 1979
BY: Senator GRIFFO
COMMEMORATING the 110th Anniversary of the
Annexation of North Utica
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commemorate historic events of significance which have contributed to
the development, growth, and prosperity of the communities of the State
of New York; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 110th Anniversary of the Annexation of North Utica, an
event of enduring importance to the City of Utica and the surrounding
region; and
WHEREAS, The history of North Utica's annexation is marked by two
pivotal events which shaped the community's trajectory and development;
and
WHEREAS, The first annexation, occurring in 1891, involved
approximately 249 acres of land from the Town of Deerfield, situated
just north of the New York Central Railroad tracks; this action was
undertaken primarily to facilitate the rerouting and straightening of
the Mohawk River in order to mitigate severe and recurring spring
flooding, which had long impacted residents, infrastructure, and
railroad operations; and
WHEREAS, This ambitious and costly undertaking proved beneficial not
only to the City of Utica, but also to surrounding communities and the
railroad system, ensuring improved safety, economic stability, and
continued service in the region; and
WHEREAS, The second and most significant annexation occurred in
1916, encompassing nearly 4,100 acres, or approximately four square
miles, of land from the Town of Deerfield, following extensive public
discourse and deliberation regarding its merits and consequences; and
WHEREAS, A principal factor motivating this annexation was the
financial burden associated with infrastructure improvements
necessitated by the construction of the New York State Barge Canal,
begun in 1905 and completed in 1918, including the costly development of
major bridges over what are now Leland Avenue and North Genesee Street;
and
WHEREAS, The incorporation of this territory into the City of Utica
enabled the provision of essential municipal services to residents
within the annexed area, including electric lighting, police and fire
protection, and access to city schools, thereby enhancing quality of
life and civic participation; and
WHEREAS, While the annexation represented a transition for the Town
of Deerfield, which relinquished land, institutions, and a diverse
working population of skilled tradespeople and professionals, it
ultimately contributed to the broader regional growth and modernization;
and
WHEREAS, Over the ensuing decades, North Utica has evolved from its
modest origins into a vibrant and dynamic district, now recognized as
the largest in the City of Utica, featuring residential neighborhoods,
educational institutions, commercial centers, and a wide array of
businesses and community resources; and
WHEREAS, Today, North Utica serves as an economic and cultural hub,
contributing significantly to the local tax base, providing employment
opportunities, and acting as a gateway to the Adirondack region for
countless visitors traveling through the area; and
WHEREAS, The legacy of the annexation endures as a testament to
foresight, cooperation, and the enduring resilience of the community,
whose development has far exceeded the expectations of its early civic
leaders; and
WHEREAS, It is fitting and proper to recognize this milestone and to
honor the history, growth, and contributions of North Utica and its
residents; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 110th Anniversary of the Annexation of North Utica, and
to recognize the significance of this historic event in shaping the
community and region; and be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to representatives of the North Utica community in
recognition of this auspicious occasion.