Under the oversight of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), a contractor has commenced clearing work at the former Utica City Dump on Leland Avenue. The site, which is owned by the City of Utica, is undergoing preliminary preparations for a significant cleanup effort scheduled to begin in the fall of 2026. These initial clearing activities, which include tree cutting, are expected to last for several weeks, according to the NYSDEC. The clearing work will serve as the first step toward an extensive remediation project that is part of the State Superfund Program.
The planned cleanup of the site is a critical part of addressing its environmental concerns. The process will involve the excavation and consolidation of waste materials that have accumulated at the former landfill over time. After the waste has been properly managed, a protective cover system will be installed to close the landfill. The project will also include the restoration of wetlands on the site to further mitigate environmental impact. This is a crucial step in ensuring that the site will be safe for future use and that any potential environmental risks are minimized.
Following the completion of the cleanup, any future redevelopment on the property will fall under the responsibility of the property owner. NYSDEC officials have stated that this process will be managed in a way that allows for proper development while ensuring environmental safety. In a statement, Utica Mayor Michael P. Galime explained that the City of Utica, in collaboration with the New York Power Authority, is planning to develop a solar renewable energy project on the site. This project aims to harness solar power in a manner that will contribute to the city’s renewable energy goals and provide an environmentally friendly solution for the repurposing of the land.
The solar renewable project will be confined strictly to the former Utica City Dump property, with no development taking place on the adjacent Weaver property. The Weaver property is privately owned and is not part of the current remediation project. According to Mayor Galime, the development of the solar project will significantly relieve the City of Utica from cleanup costs and fines that could range between $30 million and $40 million. This solar initiative not only helps to address environmental liabilities but also positions Utica as a forward-thinking community committed to renewable energy.
The ongoing efforts to clean up and repurpose the former dump site highlight the city’s commitment to environmental responsibility and economic revitalization. The cleanup will remove decades of accumulated waste, restore wetlands, and potentially pave the way for a sustainable energy future through the solar project. By mitigating financial liabilities and improving the environment, the project will contribute to the long-term well-being of the community while offering a model for urban redevelopment in post-industrial areas.