Binghamton May Lease Public Space to Private Entity

Proposal aims to address ongoing issues of drinking, drug use and criminal activity at Southside Commons

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Binghamton lawmakers are considering a proposal from a local developer to lease the city-owned Southside Commons property, which has faced persistent problems with drinking, drug use, and criminal activity. The developer, Brett Pritchard, is interested in taking over maintenance and management of the community space in an effort to "make it a safer environment" for nearby businesses and residents.

Why it matters

The Southside Commons has been a source of ongoing issues and complaints from the surrounding community, with police frequently responding to incidents at the site. The city's decision on whether to lease the property to a private entity could have significant implications for public access, safety, and the overall management of this community space.

The details

Under the proposal, an entity controlled by developer Brett Pritchard would initially lease the Southside Commons site from the city for five years and be responsible for its maintenance. The space would remain open to the public from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. City officials have already responded to the problems by removing tables and benches from a section of the property.

  • The Southside Commons opened about a decade ago.
  • Pritchard acquired the former Number 5 restaurant property six years ago.
  • The proposal was discussed at a city council work session on March 10, 2026.

The players

Brett Pritchard

A local developer who acquired the former Number 5 restaurant property six years ago and is interested in leasing the Southside Commons site from the city.

Binghamton City Council

The governing body of Binghamton, New York, that is considering the proposal to lease the Southside Commons property to a private entity.

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What they’re saying

“Business operators and their employees are concerned about the issues at the community space that have included people exposing themselves and garbage being dumped around the site.”

— Brett Pritchard, Developer (kissbinghamton.com)

What’s next

The plan is expected to be discussed in a future city council committee meeting.

The takeaway

The proposal to lease the Southside Commons to a private entity highlights the ongoing challenges faced by public spaces, as cities balance community access with concerns over public safety and maintenance. The outcome of Binghamton's decision could set a precedent for how other municipalities address similar issues with troubled public properties.