Ross Park Carousel: council approves additional $100,000 request pending documentation

City planners told the Binghamton City Council Monday that completing the Ross Park Carousel restoration and relocation will require an additional $100,000 because of higher-than-expected construction and rigging costs.

Director of Planning Julia Perling (presenting the carousel item) said bids for the new shelter were much higher than expected due to tariffs and general construction-cost increases. Perling outlined a breakdown: roughly $55,000–$60,000 to move restored carousel parts from the restoration firm in Connecticut back to Binghamton (including rigging and specialized rental equipment), and the remainder to cover contractor oversight and electrical work.

Perling said the project had previously been awarded state funds and that the city received a contract in 2023 for about $500,000 that covered restoration work and off-site restoration costs; the current request is to close out remaining city-side contracts. She said the project has a finding of no significant impact and that, with the additional funds, the administration expects construction completion and a tentative schedule targeting December for the shelter and the possibility of holiday carousel rides.

Council members asked for the written breakdown Perling referenced; Perling said she would email the detailed worksheet and supporting documentation to council.