# Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association (UMNA) This page introduces the Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association. The next Set of pages introduce the Upper Monroe neighborhood itself. After those pages you will find lots of additional information. ## "*You've got friends in Upper Monroe!"* ## Purpose The **Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association** (**UMNA**) is devoted to building community & improving the quality of life in the Upper Monroe neighborhood. ## Philosophy A strong neighborhood association is important for a neighborhood’s vitality and to help the community manage and adapt to the inevitable changes that come with time. ## Quick Links #### [Join UMNA](/join-umna) | [Donate](/donate) | [Get Involved](/get-involved) | [About The Neighborhood](/about-the-neighborhood#map) | [Hot Topics](/hot-topics) | [Events & Meetings](/events-and-meetings) | [Newsletters](/umna_news) | **Follow us on** [**Facebook**](https://www.facebook.com/uppermonroe/) **&** [**NextDoor**](https://nextdoor.com/pages/upper-monroe-neighborhood-association-rochester-ny/?\&recommend=1\&init_source=org_admin_share_source_org_page) ## Activities * UMNA helps neighbors figure out what sorts of things should be done in the neighborhood; provides a forum to talk about those ideas and facilitates working together to take positive action. * UMNA shares information about neighborhood history, gardening, architecture, art, music and other cool stuff. * UMNA seeks opportunities to act in coalition with other groups, businesses, organizations and other entities to advance the interests of the Upper Monroe neighborhood and provide mutual aid. * UMNA produces & promotes fun activities that connect neighbors. * UMNA beautifies & otherwise strives to improve the neighborhood. * UMNA keeps neighbors updated on neighborhood news and events. * UMNA develops and maintains community gardens. * UMNA supports respectful, mutually beneficial relationships between neighbors; between landlords & tenants; between businesses & residents. * UMNA advocates for the residents and in the best interests of the neighborhood to all levels of government and in all other arenas. * UMNA works to preserve and protect parklands and greenspaces. * UMNA supports nearby businesses. * UMNA works to preserve historic structures found in the neighborhood. * UMNA helps neighbors in need. #### UMNA is in the process of implementing the district/block organizational model as seen below on this map {% embed url="" %} ## Some general observations about this map Neighborhood borders aren't always distinct or even constant. Many neighborhoods have sections that overlap the edge of adjacent neighborhoods. Upper Monroe is no exception; particularly when it comes to Cobbs Hill Park and Pinnacle Hill. Some of Pinnacle Hill is located in the Town of Brighton. Even so, what happens on Pinnacle Hill has a significant impact on residents in Upper Monroe. In addition, sections of Pinnacle Hill are mere steps from the Swillburg Neighborhood and the Highland Park Neighborhood. Residents of those areas also have a significant interest in what happens on Pinnacle Hill. The official City of Rochester map of neighborhoods includes the entirety of Cobbs Hill Park as part of the "Cobbs Hill Neighborhood" which doesn't actually have an official neighborhood association by that name. There is an active group in that area called the "Nunda Boulevard Association". Residents of that Association commonly work together with nearby residents at some distance from Nunda Boulevard on many fronts without the need for a group that claims to represent the "Cobbs Hill Neighborhood". Cobbs Hill Park and The Grove are very important to that community. The Cobbs Hill Village retirement community is located inside Cobbs Hill Park. Clearly those residents have a very immediate and direct interest in goings in the Park. The Highland Heights Home Owners Association covers a unique private street of homes nestled up to The Grove and other sections of Cobbs Hill Park. While HH HOA has important duties particular to the care and maintenance of commonly owned private property in their area it also acts much like any neighborhood association. Those residents care deeply about The Grove and Cobbs Hill Park. Their voice is as important and valid as any other. The map above offers a very general idea of the overall area that most neighbors in Upper Monroe think of as significantly connected to the Upper Monroe neighborhood even if the areas extend beyond the residential streets commonly associated with the neighborhood and overlap interests associated with other areas. The informal boundaries shown on this map do NOT assert dominion or claim territory (as if that were even possible). They merely suggest the significant relationship that exists between residents of Upper Monroe and the physical areas in proximity to the neighborhood. ## By-Laws {% file src="/files/LsM8vz3sKW04sVkcjRFT" %} *This site was redeveloped and enhanced beginning in June, 2023.*
# About The Neighborhood This set of pages provides highlights associated with the Upper Monroe neighborhood. ## Map {% embed url="" %} The nieghborhood boundaries noted above a approximate. {% endembed %} ## General Description The Upper Monroe neighborhood exemplifies the best of urban living. Residents easily access a range of resources – retail, restaurants, transportation and recreation – within proximity to their homes. Its boundaries are marked at the north by Route 490, south at the city line with the Town of Brighton, east on Culver Road, west to Field Street and include Cobbs Hill Park (in cooperation with the Cobbs Hill neighborhood). The Upper Monroe neighborhood is comprised of nearly 800 parcels (approximately 1/2 single family homes; 1/2 multi-family properties with a small number of commercial & mixed use properties) housing approximately 3,300 people within it's boundaries. Businesses and non-profits in Upper Monroe are concentrated in two areas: along the [Businesses & Non-Profits](/about-the-neighborhood/businesses-and-non-profits#monroe-avenue-corridor) and in [Businesses & Non-Profits](/about-the-neighborhood/businesses-and-non-profits#the-armory-on-culver-road). UMNA has been in the forefront in promoting a greener, more livable community. It was the first neighborhood in Rochester to support a City plan to develop Bicycle Boulevards. These “Boulevards” are specially designed to provide safe routes for bicyclist and pedestrians by slowing traffic, making crosswalks safer and promoting alternative means of transportation. In May 2010, UMNA organized a demonstration ride through the Upper Monroe neighborhood to study possible routes, and over 40 bicyclists pedaled their support. In addition, UMNA supports numerous community [Gardens & Gardening](/about-the-neighborhood/gardens-and-gardening) efforts. The Upper Monroe neighborhood is within walking distance to the Park Avenue neighborhood; the Park-Meigs-Monroe neighborhood; the Swillburg neighborhood; and the Cobbs Hill neighborhood on the south side of Cobbs Hill Park as well as neighborhoods located in the Town of Brighton just south-east of the City of Rochester line at Highland Avenue. You can walk from anywhere in the Upper Monroe neighborhood to Highland Park. ## Indigenous Peoples *We recognize and appreciate Indigenous Peoples associated with this region - who pre-date European settlements and continue living among us - by sharing a brief description of their long history and ongoing contributions.* ## [The Onödowá’ga:’ (Seneca) Nation](https://sni.org/)
The Seneca’s name in their language is [Onöndowá ga:'](https://sni.org/), which translate into “Great Hill People.” At the time of the formation of the [Haudenosaunee Confederacy](https://www.haudenosauneeconfederacy.com/), the five tribes occupied territory from the East to the West, the Seneca being the “keepers of the western door”. The [Seneca ](https://sni.org/)were the largest of six Native American nations which comprised the Iroquois Confederacy or Six Nations, a democratic government that pre-dates the United States Constitution. The historical [Seneca ](https://sni.org/)occupied territory throughout the Finger Lakes area in Central New York, and in the Genesee Valley in Western New York, living in longhouses on the riversides. The villages were well fortified with wooden stake fences, just one of the many industrious undertakings. Today the [Seneca Nation](https://sni.org/) currently has a total enrolled population of over 8,000 citizens. The [Seneca Nation](https://sni.org/) supports its own people and benefits surrounding communities with a variety of cultural, educational and economic efforts ## [The Hodinöhsö:ni’ (Haudenosaunee) Confederacy](https://www.haudenosauneeconfederacy.com/)
The [Seneca ](https://sni.org/)were the largest of six Native American nations which comprised the Iroquois Confederacy or Six Nations. The confederacy is properly called the [Haudenosaunee Confederacy](https://www.haudenosauneeconfederacy.com/) meaning People of the long house. The confederacy was founded by the prophet known as the Peacemaker with the help of Aionwatha, more commonly known as Hiawatha. The exact date of the joining of the nations is unknown and said to be time immemorial making it one of the first and longest lasting participatory democracies in the world. The confederacy, made up of the Mohawks, Oneidas, Onondagas, Cayugas, and [Senecas](https://sni.org/) was intended as a way to unite the nations and create a peaceful means of decision making. Through the confederacy, each of the nations of the [Haudenosaunee ](https://www.haudenosauneeconfederacy.com/)are united by a common goal to live in harmony. Each nation maintains it own council with Chiefs chosen by the Clan Mother and deals with its own internal affairs but allows the Grand Council to deal with issues affecting the nations within the confederacy. Often described as the oldest, participatory democracy on Earth, the [Haudenosaunee ](https://www.haudenosauneeconfederacy.com/)[Confederacy’s ](https://www.haudenosauneeconfederacy.com/)constitution is believed to be a model for the American Constitution. What makes it stand out as unique to other systems around the world is its blending of law and values. For the Haudenosaunee, law, society and nature are equal partners and each plays an important role. Today the [Seneca Nation](https://sni.org/) currently has a total enrolled population of over 8,000 citizens. The [Seneca Nation](https://sni.org/) supports its own people and benefits surrounding communities with a variety of cultural, educational and economic efforts.
*NOTE: Text from the above sections was copied from* [*Seneca Nation*](https://sni.org/) *&* [*Haudenosaunee* ](https://www.haudenosauneeconfederacy.com/)*websites.*
A huge boulder at the base of [Hills & Parks](/about-the-neighborhood/hills-and-parks#cobbs-hill-park) marks the spot where the “Portage Trail” passed through what is now Upper Monroe. This trail began at Irondequoit Bay and followed in the direction of what is today Highland Avenue and on to Red Creek in Genesee Valley Park. ## Mid 19th to early 20th century development of Upper Monroe

1888 City of Rochester Plat Map

1900 City of Rochester Plat Map

1910 City of Rochester Plat Map

1935 City of Rochester Plat Map

A little over ten years after the Erie Canal was finished C.F. Crossman began to develop his business and, eventually, a portion of the area we recognize as the Upper Monroe neighborhood today. In 1838, Crossman founded a small seed company on the Avenue. Fifty years later, Crosman’s business - the American Seed Company, later the Crosman Brothers - would be one of the largest seed houses in the world. Upper Monroe neighborhood residences grew up around Crossman’s land, with the majority of homes being built in the early years of the twentieth century. The oldest extant home still in use as a residence in Upper Monroe (that UMNA is aware of) was built circa 1860 on Luzerne Street. There are two homes in the Swillburg neighborhood on the Field Street border of Upper Monroe that date from the same period. As you can see from the map detail below Crosman Terrace did not exist in 1904. The Crosman Brothers seed business still occupied that land. Although there were no homes Crosman Brothers had commercial buildings on their land including at a large portion the building that now houses Center For Youth in the 900 block of Monroe Avenue. The map below also shows the shape of the Erie Canal Wide Waters before most of it was filled in (leaving the relatively tiny Lake Riley as a charming remnant on the eastern side of Culver Road in what is now Cobbs Hill Park) and before the Armory was built a few years later on west side of Culver Road. Upper Monroe would soon transform through rapid & intense development into the neighborhood configuration we know today. *** In September of 2022 the "*Crosman Terrace Historic District"* was recognized by the National Register of Historic Places. Developed on land historically used for Rochester's horticulture industry, the intact residential suburban-style neighborhood was built between 1908 and 1940 and exhibits specific characteristics that were originally marketed to appeal to interests of upper-middle-class residents. These include a focus on residential structures, consistent lot size and building scale, and accommodations for automobiles.

UMNA partnered with Rochester Brainery and The Landmark Society of Western New York, Inc. on a walking tour of Upper Monroe that highlighted the Crosman Terrace Historic District in the summer of 2023.

## Plaques & Markers

In Cobbs Hill Park Facing Culver Road

In Cobbs Hill Park Facing Culver Road

In Cobbs Hill Park on Norris Drive

In Cobbs Hill Park on Norris Drive

At Cobbs Hill Reservoir

At Cobbs Hill Reservoir

On Monroe Avenue Near Highland Avenue

On Monroe Avenue in Various Places

# Points of Interest Check out points of interest like: community gardens, private gardens, properties built before circa 1880, hiking trails, parks, public art, etc. Click on a point of interest to learn more. **We are in the process of updating this map. Please check back in the future.** {% embed url="" %} # Hills & Parks Parks & hills play an important role in the Upper Monroe neighborhood. This page considers a bit of the history as well as the current status of the hills and parks that help define our neighborhood. {% embed url="" %}

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What we now think of as "Pinnacle Hill" is the highest peak in our area, reaching 749 feet above sea level (506 feet above the city's lowest point at the shore of Lake Ontario). American inhabitants of European extraction living in the area referred to this important geological landmark by more than one name including "Mount Monroe" (in an 1829 deed), "Mt. Hor" on a map dating around 1825 that, by appearances, suggests a religious interest or influence. By 1838, it was known as Pinnacle Hill on most maps created by American interests even if some in our area still referred to it as Mt. Hor until after the turn of the 20th century. Pinnacle Hill is one of a range of four hills (originally five) - collectively referred to as "[the Pinnacle Range](https://daytrippingroc.com/explore-the-pinnacle-range/)" - that runs along the city's southern and southeastern boundary. The four hills are Cobbs Hill, Pinnacle Hill, Highland Hill (in Highland Park) and Mount Hope (in Mount Hope Cemetery). The fifth hill, Oak Hill, was leveled for the construction of the original Oak Hill Country Club, which later became the River Campus of the University of Rochester. Pinnacle Hill's elevation is augmented by numerous broadcast towers. While virtually the entire hill is privately owned by various entities - some of it located in Rochester and the rest in Brighton, there is a network of trails accessible from Field Street just off of Clinton Avenue. There are some excellent views from the southern flank of the summit. The broadcast towers atop the hill are the source of almost all of the over-the-air television service in the city, as well as a good portion (dare we say a majority) of the FM radio transmissions. ### Rochester Orphan Asylum (now Hillside) on Pinnacle Hill On the Northeast side of the hill is the headquarters of the Hillside Children's Center, formerly the Rochester Orphan Asylum.

Democrat & Chronicle - June, 1918

Former St. Patrick's Cemetery on Pinnacle Hill: [Thousands Of Bodies Buried In Upper Monroe! Where Are They?](/about-the-neighborhood/neighborhood-history-and-lore/thousands-of-bodies-buried-in-upper-monroe-where-are-they) ## The area we now know as "**Cobbs Hill Park"**

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Below you will find the text of remarks by Trish Corcoran that capture some important information about this area. Please scroll on the embedded document to read the complete text. {% embed url="" %} According to the [Olmstead Parks Alliance](https://www.olmstedrochester.org/), Cobb’s Hill Park was named after Edna Cobb who previously owned the land. It is the only major Rochester park still under city control. The park was expanded in 1922 after the creation of the Barge Canal system moved the canal’s route south of the city, making extensive amounts of land available for other uses, when George Eastman donated an additional 15 acres of land. His donation came with the caveat that the City of Rochester acquire the adjoining Eastern Widewaters tract that had once been part of the Erie Canal. Public donations ($35,625.00), the City of Rochester ($5,625.00), and other donations of small parcels of land combined to make up the current park. With the funds, the city purchased the old right-of-way near the park as well as the Eastern Widewaters, which now feature both a small pond and several playing fields, and a basketball court. Cobb's Hill Park features 109 acres of beauty, recreation, and scenic trails. At the park's highest point, a walking trail offers one of the best views of the city. At road level, a collection of lilacs and original tree plantings makes this park a horticultural gem. During summer nights, Cobb's Hill Park bustles with players from local softball leagues. **Lake Riley**, formerly a part of the Erie Canal eastern wide waters (a spot where boats could turn, pull over, pass other boats), is visible from Culver Road and runs along Norris Drive towards Winton Road South. It's natural beauty and dueling fountain-like sprays that help circulate water in the lake, naturally attract summer sunbathers, picnickers, hikers, frisbee-players and children to its grassy shore.

Lake Riley 2023

Lake Riley 2023

Lake Riley 2023

Historic marker Lake Riley 2023

View of the wide waters from Cobbs Hill circa 1900

Culver Road looking north. Age unknown.

Tennis courts at Cobbs Hill Park. Age unknown.

Ice skating at Lake Riley ended in 1991.

Former POW barracks at Cobbs Hill Park

Early 20th century view of the Wide Waters

Early photo of Lake Riley

Former ice skating at Lake Riley

Early 20th century view of Culver Road Armory

A portion of Cobbs Hill Park is a designated landmark and, as such, any work done in that section is subject to review by the Rochester Preservation Board. In early 2024 when a sign was posted at a site in the park notifying the public of the City's intent to construct two pavilions it was (re)discovered that the preservation district boundaries were modified to exclude Lake Riley (the eastern wide waters) in 1972 for technical reasons. [CLICK HERE to read more about ice skating at Lake Riley here.](/about-the-neighborhood/neighborhood-history-and-lore/ice-skating-on-lake-riley-in-cobbs-hill-park) [CLICK HERE if you would like to learn more about the historic district associated with Cobbs Hill Park.](/hot-topics/supporting-cobbs-hill-park/the-backstory-two-pavilions-two-standards) #### Cobbs Hill Park Amenities & Attractions

View of the gate house and reservoir pump house on Cobbs Hill looking due east from Pinnacle Hill circa 1900

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From the [Olmstead Parks Alliance](https://www.olmstedrochester.org/) website: *"The Olmsted Brothers’ firm was engaged to design the reservoir, its entrances, related buildings, and the steep quarried slopes on either side of the reservoir itself. In addition to the design, the firm spent considerable time determining what tree species would best stabilize the steep slopes that were the outcome of earlier quarrying."* The **Cobb's Hill Reservoir** is a favorite spot for runners who do laps around the sparkling water-filled basin. [**Washington Grove**](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064660480904) is a 26-acre old growth Oak-Hickory forest located in the southeastern corner of the City of Rochester. It forms part of Cobbs Hill Park and is extensively used by people from Rochester and surrounding communities as a public amenity and green lung. A group of citizens purchased the 26 acres to prevent it being used as a gravel pit, and in 1912 transferred the land to the City of Rochester as dedicated parkland. In 1932 the grove, on the bicentennial of his birth, was dedicated to George Washington. You can read more about the history of the Grove in [this pamphlet](https://friendsofwashingtongrove.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/History-of-Washington-Grove.pdf), written in the years following the park’s dedication. #### Some photos from a tour of Washington Grove co-sponsored by UMNA in June, 2023:

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**Facilities available in Cobbs Hill Park:** Ball Fields Basketball Court - Outside Cross Country Skiing Fishing Football/Soccer Large Group Accommodation Play Apparatus Playground Scenic Area Tennis Courts Hiking Trails Lodges **Cabins:** Cobbs Hill Park boasts two cabins that the public can reserve. Look into renting the [Tay House](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/article.aspx?id=8589935131) or [Lake Riley Lodge](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/article.aspx?id=8589935140) for your next event! To book a lodge online visit . **Fitness Court at Cobb's Hill** The Fitness Court at Cobb's Hill is the first outdoor court of its kind in New York State and makes physical fitness free and accessible to community residents. The fitness court was made possible through the support and generosity of MVP Health Care, as well as the National Fitness Campaign. Rochester was selected by the National Fitness Campaign as one of only 300 Cities nationwide to have an outdoor fitness court! The outdoor circuit training system includes 30 pieces of equipment, allowing users of all skill levels to leverage their body weight at different angels and resistance levels to increase mobility and muscular strength. Residents can also take advantage of the free Fitness Court App which acts as a how-to guide and a "personal coach in your pocket. The Court is open to the public free of charge with the purpose of promoting front-end health and wellness. Individuals utilizing the court must be 14 years and older. Pets are not permitted on the Fitness Court (service animals only). All pets must always be on a leash within Cobb’s Hill Park. Cobbs Hill is also home to [Cobbs Hill Village Redevelopment](/hot-topics/cobbs-hill-village-redevelopment) *** ## Highland Park Although Highland Park is not located in Upper Monroe, it's lilacs and other plantings are within walking distance. *** ## More Please see our [Gardens & Gardening](/about-the-neighborhood/gardens-and-gardening) page for information about other natural amenities found in the Upper Monroe neighborhood. Check out our [Points of Interest](/about-the-neighborhood/points-of-interest) page to see cool stuff and plot out an interesting walk through the neighborhood.
# Gardens & Gardening Anyone walking in the Upper Monroe neighborhood is treated to a wide variety of gardens. Many consider Upper Monroe a "garden district" neighborhood. There are many neighborhoods around Rochester with lovely gardens that might be considered "garden districts". Upper Monroe certainly considers itself one of those areas. Indeed, gardens (public as well as private), parks, wooded trails and even an old growth forest are all a part of the Upper Monroe neighborhood. ## Garden Stroll 2026 This year UMNA will host an expanded "Garden Stroll" program: [2026 July 11th: A Garden Stroll in Upper Monroe](/events-and-meetings/2026-past-events/2026-july-11th-a-garden-stroll-in-upper-monroe)
*** In 2025 UMNA hosted an informal walk thorugh the neighborhood highlighting gardens visible from the public right-of-way. The event was so popular UMNA is currently planning an expanded program in 2026.
## Community Gardens The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association works with private property owners and the City of Rochester to develop and care for community gardens & planters at various sites in Upper Monroe. These Community Gardens may be found at the corner of Monroe Avenue and Culver Road; along the parkway median on Werner Park (visible from Monroe Avenue); at the corner of Monroe Avenue and Belmont Street; at the corner of Monroe Avenue and Rosedale Street; at the corner of Monroe Avenue and Laburnam Crescent (as well as along Laburnam Crescent heading north); at the intersection of Monroe Avenue and Engel Place and Field Street; and along the base of Pinnacle Hill demarcated, in a section, by a charming single layer laid-stone retaining wall running roughly between Alliance Avenue to Rosedale Street. UMNA's [#ShareTheCare of our community gardens](/get-involved/sharethecare-of-our-community-gardens) page invites participation in the care of these community gardens.

Monroe Ave & Culver Rd - Summer, 2023

Werner Park as seen from Monroe Ave - Summer, 2023

Monroe Ave & Belmont Street - Summer, 2023

Monroe Ave & Rosedale Street - Summer, 2023

Monroe Ave & Laburnam Crescent - Summer, 2023

Monroe Ave & Engle Place - Summer, 2023

Children's Garden on Laburnam Crescent

## Private Gardens The Upper Monroe neighborhood has an abundance of private gardens visible from the public right-of-way (sidewalks & streets). See: [Points of Interest](/about-the-neighborhood/points-of-interest). ## [Wide Water Gardens](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064660480904) [Wide Water Gardens](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064660480904) is an independent organization from UMNA. UMNA initiated and then supported the creation of [Wide Water Gardens](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064660480904) many years ago. WWG is the city’s largest privately supported community garden, located at Rosedale and Hinsdale Streets. Using a NeighborGood grant from the Rochester Area Foundation, the group designed and built some 28 garden beds in the growing season of 2010. [Wide Water Gardens](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064660480904) is named after a historic section of the Erie Canal, near Lake Riley on Culver Road, that was wide enough to allow boats to turn around. The creation of [Wide Water Gardens](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064660480904) was a joint project between the UMNA, Third Rochester Enterprises Corporation (TREC) and the City of Rochester. Its mission is to bring “a new urban agricultural, educational and recreational resource to the residents of the City of Rochester and surrounding communities.” Please see our [Hills & Parks](/about-the-neighborhood/hills-and-parks) page for information about other natural amenities found in the Upper Monroe neighborhood. Check out our [Points of Interest](/about-the-neighborhood/points-of-interest) page to see cool stuff and plot out an interesting walk through the neighborhood. #### **Nearby** Although Highland Park is not located in Upper Monroe, it's lilacs and other plantings are within walking distance of the neighborhood.
# Neighborhood History & Lore Posts in this section were either written by UMNA's "Local History Nerds" or reprinted from other sources. The information is largely accurate but subject to edits & updates. # Can You Tell Me How To Find Adelaide Street? Reprinted from the January, 2026 UMNA e-newsletter. This information was prepared by amateur local historians. As a result, the information is subject to edits, updates and corrections.
By all accounts the City of Rochester grew at a rapid pace over the fifty years from 1825 to 1875. Looking back, Rochester is considered by many historians of the period to be the fastest growing city in the country during those years. The newly completed Erie Canal played a significant role in driving Rochester’s economic and urban development. The circa 1825 map above strongly suggests a remarkable rate of growth when compared to the map next to it on the right from the early 1870s. Note the cluster of dots in the upper left corner of the 1825 map. That’s the spot where Rochester was seeded at the end of the 18th century, chartered as “Rochesterville” in the early 19th century, and then re-charted as a city in 1835. The center of the 1825 map (and the entirety of the all the other maps shown on this post) is about where Upper Monroe is located today. Land surrounding the early city’s early borders was annexed in all directions more than once during those first fifty years of Rochester’s existence. Land annexation continued into the early 20th century, pushing the city boundaries several more times; notably in our area, along Monroe Avenue from South Goodman Street to Culver Road and eventually to Highland Avenue. Between 1870 and 1920, as the Upper Monroe neighborhood was emerging as a residential neighborhood, [many new streets were developed and a trolley line added midway through this period](https://www.uppermonroe.com/about-the-neighborhood/neighborhood-history-and-lore/the-r-and-err-brought-rapid-growth-to-upper-monroe). Over the same timeframe some of the older streets were renamed. “Cornelia Street”, for example, appears to have been attached to two different streets before disappearing from maps. As you will see on the 1888 and the 1900 maps (below) Cornelia Street is renamed Newport St. Then Cornelia St appears in a new location just south of Newport off of Field Street. Interesting, right? ***
*Based on the 1888 map no homes had yet been built on Crosman Terrace, Shepard Street or Cornelia Street at that time. Crosman doesn’t appear at all on the 1900 map but homes popped had up on Shepard Street by then. Crosman appears on the 1910 map with a new descriptor, "Terrace". Newport Street replaces Cornelia Street on the 1900 map but it hasn’t been completed yet. Cornelia Street shows up as a stub connected to Field Street (formerly known as Paddy Lane).* *** It wasn’t clear to the Upper Monroe “Local History Nerds” (the group of UM neighbors who contributed to this article) why the name Cornelia was reassigned. An ardent developer wanting to memorialize a family member (the Crosmans, probably) is one theory explaining the change. Another theory suggests the maps are either misleading or downright incorrect. For example, some early maps identify Culver “Street” while others (both before and after) show Culver “Road”. Huh? There’s a good chance these particular maps are merely noting proposed streets rather than actual streets. In any case, while Cornelia apparently became a physical street by the turn of the 20th century, the name didn’t stick. Shortly after the name changed to Pinnacle Road. More on this below. *** *** **What about Adelaide Street?** Let’s have some fun employing historical fiction to paint a picture of what it might have been like looking for Adelaide Street during this period… Imagine it’s January 1, 1900 and you live on Bowen Street off of Pacific Street north of the Erie Canal in what would eventually become the Park Avenue neighborhood. You’re walking towards Monroe Avenue (formerly known as the Rochester and Pittsford Plank Road) on your way to meet a friend who lives about a quarter of a mile away in the Mt. Hor neighborhood on the other side of the canal. (Can you guess where the Mt. Hor neighborhood was then relative to where the Upper Monroe neighborhood is today? Hint: Take another look at the 1825 map above to orient yourself.) Before long you pass the Kondolf Ice House (an important supplier of ice for many residential and commercial ice boxes in Rochester and one of only a few suppliers using water piped in from Hemlock Lake) on Pacific, your left shoulder nearly brushing against the Erie Canal twopath. Beasts of burden tethered to canal boats and led by canal workers are in evidence. A deep breath invites unpleasant odors from a variety of sources associated with the canal. Neither the sights nor smells bother you one whit, however. This is a normal state of affairs in your neighborhood. Besides, your thoughts are elsewhere… Specifically, you’re uncertain where exactly Adelaide Street is located in Mt. Hor. You know it’s off (or near) Monroe Avenue. Is there a shortcut? Some advice would be helpful. So, you approach an elderly woman as she is about to pass you walking in the opposite direction down Pacific with Monroe Avenue to her back. “Pardon me,” you begin. “Can you tell me how to find Adelaide Street near Mt. Hor? I’m visiting a new friend who lives there and I’m not quite sure where the street is located.” The woman hesitates before responding. “It’s over there,” she says, pointing to her right past Kondolf’s and over the canal. “I’m very familiar with the other side of the canal. Crosman’s is my favorite source for seeds and plantings. Adelaide isn’t far after you cross the canal bridge.” “I see. Thank you very much,” you reply. “Do you happen to know the shortest route?” In response she turns her body around in the direction of Monroe Avenue as though she might somehow divine the route to Adelaide Street from a new perspective. Her back is facing you as she speaks. “Adelaide is past Keeler Street and near Culver. It's a catty-corner to Klinck,” she announces confidently. Then, turning only her head and shoulders towards you, she adds, “You can also see Adelaide from the top of Mt. Hor, but I don’t think they’ve connected Newport Street or Cornelia yet.” She completes her rotation, eventually facing you again. “Don’t try to get there from Field Street unless you have your boots on! It rained last night, you know,” she explained, her head cocked and her index finger now wagging in your direction. “Adelaide is off the far end of Newport Street and runs down the side of Mt. Hor to Monroe. So, it’s probably best to get there from the main road. Adelaide is near the old Klinck property and before School #8 on the same side of the street. No short cuts, I’m afraid.” You thank her again and continue on your way towards Monroe Avenue before walking up and over the canal bridge towards Adelaide Street and Mt. Hor. *** ***
*The Klinck-Keeler home was built well before the Civil War when the neighborhood was still located in the Town of Brighton. It is notable for this story because two owners of this home had streets in Upper Monroe named after them at one time. This home was demolished sometime in the early 20th century. We hope to learn more and share details about this property and it's owners in a future article*. *** Adelaide Street was renamed “Pinnacle Road” at the dawn of the 20th century. The name “Pinnacle Road” was then extended all the way to Field Street replacing Newport Street sometime before 1918. To recap, what we now know as Pinnacle Road had two prior names: Cornelia Street AND Newport Street. ***
*From what we can tell the two ends of Newport Street weren’t joined until after the south end of Laburnam Crescent, Crosman Terrace, Shepard Street and Rosedale Street were all in place. Cornelia Street disappeared from maps after Crosman Terrace was extended beyond Newport Street (now Pinnacle Road).* *** One further note on Pinnacle Road and Pinnacle Hill: South Clinton Avenue was known as Pinnacle Avenue at least until 1872. The moniker “Mt. Hor” was dropped in favor of Pinnacle Hill and, more generally, the "Pinnacle" neighborhood not too long after the turn of the century. “Upper Monroe” came into common use much, much later. More on this is a future post. If you have a story to share or if you are curious about the Local History Nerds, write to [umna@uppermonroe.org](mailto:uppermonroe.org).
# Hungry for Neighborhood History? Try a Nibble from 1930 Reprinted from the November, 2025 UMNA e-newsletter. This information was prepared by amateur local historians. As a result, the information is subject to edits, updates and corrections. In 2025 longtime neighbor **Linda Whitney**, of Luzerne Street, sent in a circa 1930 directory listing of registered voters/residents of Upper Monroe from the Monroe County Board of Elections. While the directory does not include every resident, the beauty of this particular find is that it sorts the list by street name rather than by last name. So, you can look up a street address to find out who was living at that residence when the llist was published. **PRO TIPS:** The list is separated into three “election districts”. As a result, some streets are in more than one election district. If you don’t see a particular address in one election district, keep looking. It’s there somewhere. Also, only the even side of Field Street is listed. The odd side is in Swillburg (a different election district). By 1930 the Upper Monroe neighborhood was almost fully developed. There have been many changes since then, of course; not least being the addition of an apartment complex, a nursing home, a few infill homes and the division of some larger homes into apartments or storefronts after the Great Depression. Still, the die was mostly cast by 1930 and so it stands today mostly as it was then. There’s quite a bit of storytelling to do about the period just before this directory was published. Streets were added. Street names changed and changed again. At least one notable housing developer associated with a prominent business located in the neighborhood failed. Then there’s the reservoir, the armory and the wide waters to consider. What about the lumber yard? We’re pretty sure we saw something about massive annual tree burnings on Cobbs Hill. Crazy! More stories indeed… If you have a local history story related to this directory or from any other sources, please send it to . We are very, very, VERY curious. “Curiosity is our middle name!” And UMNA is looking for more Local History Nerds. If you self-identify as someone interested in local history, write to {% embed url="" %}
# Every House Has A Story To Tell | Here's One On Alliance Avenue Taken from the July, 2025 UMNA e-newsletter. This information was prepared by amateur local historians. As a result, the information is subject to edits, updates and corrections. Every house on every street has an interesting back story. When Charlie and Kristin shared the above pictures to their social media in 2025 we were seriously impressed with the beautiful job they did choosing the exterior paint colors of their love home at 45 Alliance Avenue. The new colors really POP.
Kristin posted this comment along with the pictures: *“In a world with so much change, we made our street a little brighter. Come to our house if you need a cup of sugar. 🩵🕊️ #bluehouse #filledwithlove #cozy #bemyneighbor #cupofsugar #homesweethome #love #somethingblue”* Couldn’t ask for better neighbors! Of course, being the local history “nerds” we are, the new paint job stimulated questions about the history of this distinctive home. And down the rabbit hole we went…
The house at 45 Alliance Avenue was apparently built circa 1909 (see the 1909 advertisement from the D\&C below). We were amazed at the sales pitch, “...this house can be bought for much less than $6,000; is worth $6,500…” Makes ya wonder how much it the first owners paid. We don’t know, btw.
By the authority granted to UMNA by absolutely no one, we’re calling 45 Alliance the “DeGraff-Schulman” home after its two longest residing owners. Not much is known of the original owner “E. J. Esser”. We don’t even know if E. J. was a man or woman. We do know Esser lost a daughter (cause unreported) within a year or so of buying the place based on a published obit. It appears Esser sold the house after no more than five years. The second owner, William DeGraff, was an attorney and something of a community activist who devoted volunteer time to social issues; including running for the NYS Constitutional Convention on the Progressive Party ticket in 1914 (45 Alliance is listed as his address at that time). Eventually DeGraff became active in Democratic Party politics - particularly in judicial races. He celebrated his 50th year as a practicing attorney in 1940. DeGraff and his wife appear to have lived at 45 Alliance for more than 30 years, most likely selling sometime in 1949. It’s not clear if the DeGraffs had children since none were noted in the local press.
It appears Allen & Julia Schulman moved into 45 Alliance after the DeGraffs either late in 1949 or sometime in 1950. Julia was an English teacher, eventually retiring from the Palmyra-Macedon Central School District. The Schulmans’ had four boys. More about two of the boys below. Mr. Schulman had a somewhat eventful working life as a bus city driver. Allen (misspelled “Allan” in the article below) was apparently attacked the same year he bought 45 Alliance by a drunk man while he was operating his bus. But that’s not the last newsworthy incident Mr. Shulman was involved in while operating a bus. There are at least three more incidents that made the paper. It seems the bus he was driving was hit by a car with faulty brakes ten years later in Brighton. In 1965 it was Schulman’s turn to cause a crash at around 10:00 am in front of 1190 Park Avenue. In July of the same year the paper reports yet another incident with Schulman at the wheel. It seems he hit a boy of 13 while the boy was stopped for a red light near the corner of East Avenue & Alexander Street. “Homina homina homina!” to quote a famous 1950s era TV bus driver, Ralph Kramden, when he found himself in awkward situations.
It certainly wasn’t all bad news in the Schulman house at 45 Alliance Avenue. The Shulmans’ eldest son, Ira, earned a Masters Degree in Education from HARVARD in 1955. He goes on to become a math teacher at Monroe High School and in 1961 marries Toby Susswein from St. Regis Drive in Brighton. The next-in-line sibling, Ira, was his best man. The other brothers, Neil and David (both younger still) were ushers at the ceremony. In 1966 their second son, Edwin, passed the NYS bar exam. Edwin earned his undergraduate degree from the U of R and his J. D. from Cornell. As far as we can tell Edwin remained in Rochester as a practicing attorney throughout his career; starting with the Gould & Gould firm on State Street. He was snapped up within a month of passing the bar. Three years after passing the bar, in 1969, Edwin marries Roxanne Shear, a Brighton resident and graduate of both RIT & Pratt Institute. Both her engagement announcement and her wedding announcement indicate she was working for Monroe County as a graphic artist at the time. They were married in Temple Beth El in February of that year. Interestingly, in the same year young Ed Schulman married Roxanne Shear, he represented Lyric Theater manager, Leon Knisley, in a court case that sought to stop Mr. Knisley from showing an allegedly “obscene” movie titled, “1,000 Pleasures”. Schulman wins the case and goes on to represent the Lyric and other movie theaters around Rochester in similar cases (including one involving a notorious movie titled, “The Devil in Miss Jones”) at least through the early 1970s. We found out much less about the younger siblings, Neil and David. Neil Schuman rises through the ranks in various jobs in City government; mostly in the planning department. By 1994 he becomes Monroe County’s community development manager overseeing the county’s role in grant distributions. The trail disappears after then mostly, we suspect, due to the way our newspaper narrowed its news coverage. David’s story is even less clear. In the first instance, his name is just more common making it hard to know which David Schulman is mentioned. In addition, as he grows up there is no longer any connection to his parents or 45 Alliance Avenue to help narrow the focus. The two youngest Schulmans may have retired or left the community entirely after a point. Hard to say… We wondered if Julia or Allen were mid-century European refugees or holocaust survivors. Probably one, if not the other since there is no mention of either before the mid 50s. Our research was inconclusive on their origin stories. Regardless, based on what we learned, the Schulman’s had an enduring relationship with the Jewish religion and the local Jewish community. Julia & Allen Schulman remained owners of 45 Alliance Avenue for nearly 50 years until 1998. Julia passed away eight years after leaving Alliance Avenue. Allen passed several years later than his wife in 2011. They left behind many close family members including nine great grandchildren. 45 Alliance Avenue then saw a series of perfectly normal but short lived residents until the current owner bought the place just over eight years ago. Setting aside a few non-arm's-length transfers since the house was built, there have been just six owners over the past 116 years. We could go on. We can ALWAYS go on. But, if you’ve gotten this far, we’ve kept you long enough…
# The R\&ERR Brought Rapid Growth To Upper Monroe Reprinted from the January, 2025 UMNA e-newsletter. This information was prepared by amateur local historians. As a result, the information is subject to edits, updates and corrections.
The Rochester & Eastern Rapid Railway (R\&ERR), an electric interurban line running between Rochester and Geneva, was initiated in 1901 with construction along Monroe Avenue starting in 1902 - nearly 125 years ago. The incorporators of the R\&ERR were from Detroit, Michigan while the stockholders included several well known residents of our-fair-city. In addition to ferrying riders back and forth to Geneva and points between, the line offered quick and convenient transportation to customers, business owners and employees heading to and from the City’s commercial district downtown. As a result, residential & commercial development all along the rail line in the City blossomed. In the Upper Monroe neighborhood the pace & volume of new construction was enormous during this period! Thanks in no small part to the R\&ERR, by the mid 1920s just about every lot in Upper Monroe featured a single family home or small apartment building with larger more commercial structures massing along Monroe Avenue.
The railway went out Monroe Avenue from the Exchange Station in downtown Rochester southeast through the villages of Pittsford, Victor, Canandaigua, and Seneca Castle about 43 miles to the city of Geneva before returning home to Rochester. (In those days the Village of Brighton was still located well north of Monroe Avenue near the corner of East Avenue and South Winton Road. The City annexed the area a few years later. At that point Brighton Town Hall relocated to Monroe Avenue where [Malek’s Bakery](https://www.maleksbakery.com/about-us) is today. The Brighton Town Hall complex on Elmwood Avenue was built decades later.)
The photo above shows where Monroe Avenue crosses over the old Erie Canal (what would become the Rochester subway bed and eventually Rt. 490). A good guess would put the timing of this photo some 10 years or so after the R\&ERR commenced operation. As you can see, railway cars were stacked one right after the other suggesting ridership was quite high. In addition, you can also see how early automobiles competed for space with the R\&ERR creating an early traffic jam on Monroe Avenue. While we’re at it, If you look very closely at the photo above, you can see the C. Richter Garage sign on a building at the left side of the photo. Auto repair was a thing even in the early days of automobile ownership. By 1927 Charles Richter had expanded his auto repair operation to include the illegal distribution of beer during prohibition. Apparently, he was nowhere to be found when the Feds came-a-knockin’. If you close your eyes you can probably imagine the scene: agents in shirtsleeves, suspenders and fedoras hammering away at barrels with axes while beer flows into nearby sewers! But that’s another story for another day.
*** The R\&ERR was a single track line from beginning to end. As a result, it had many long sidings so that cars coming from one direction could allow passage to cars coming from the other direction. Note what looks like siding tracks on the left side of the photo. The photo below was taken at the intersection of Highland Avenue with the camera pointed down Monroe Avenue towards what is now the “Twelve Corners” intersection in Brighton. Yes, this section of Monroe Avenue is a DIRT/MUD road in the early days of the twentieth century.
The massive brick home on this corner was built at the dawn of the 19th century by Gideon Cobb, an extremely important figure associated with Upper Monroe, Brighton and the “Lost City of Tryon” (iykyk). By the time the R\&ERR was completed and this photo was taken Gideon’s son, William, his wife, Edna, and their family were in residence. William dies in 1904 leaving the house to Edna. Edna (daughter of Nancy & Leonard Buckland, by the way) is best known as a key donor of land for the Cobbs Hill Reservoir and Cobbs Hill Park. She passes in 1928 leaving the home to her adult children who, ultimately, are unable to keep it up. Sadly, the house was abandoned by the family and eventually demolished in the mid 20th century. What a loss!! A row of 1980s era suburban-style townhouses facing Highland Avenue now stand in its place. Home Acres, Rochester’s first suburban neighborhood, would soon sprout up to the right in this photo. There are a number of truly great stories here, but, yet again, I digress. We’ll revisit this site another day,,, *** At the time the R\&ERR was constructed the city of Rochester had a population of 175,000 (and growing!), Canandaigua 7,300, and the city of Geneva 11,500. It is estimated that the total contributing population to the rail line was just under 20,000 riders. To operate, the Rochester & Eastern Rapid Railway purchased 16 modern passenger coaches, 12 of which were 52 feet long and 4 of which were 45 feet long. They also purchased 2 52-foot express cars, 1 36-foot construction and repair car, all of which were equipped with telephone, electric lights, and other related equipment. The cars were fitted with Westinghouse air brakes. The entire railway was operated by overhead trolley-style electric lines. Nothing but the best for the R\&ERR!
The R\&ERR continued to operate as an independent rail line until it was purchased by the New York State Railways on March 22, 1909. In 1913 the line was equipped along its entire length with automatic block signals made by the General Railway Signal Co. (based in Rochester). The electrical current for the operation of the signals as well as the propulsion was obtained from the 60,000 volt Niagara Falls transmission line which passed through a sub-station in the city of Rochester. So, apparently, we owe a debt of gratitude to Niagara Falls for propelling the growth of our neighborhood as well as the railway!
The R\&ERR shut down after less than 30 years in service. The line was replaced by widely available and affordable automobiles and buses; both of which offered more flexible modes of transportation. Eventually the Rochester subway line would be installed where the former Erie Canal once flowed. After, that is, the canal was rerouted, widened and rechristened as “The Barge Canal”; a process that began in 1910. *** ## In other news: 1901 started off with a terrible disaster.
The fire took place on January 8, 1901. 28 orphans were lost in the fire; 12 were injured and 67 survived unharmed. The fire devastated the facility leading the board to identify and develop a new site on Pinnacle Hill in Upper Monroe. There is no doubt the R\&ERR played an important role in making the Pinnacle Hill location viable for such a purpose. Another story worthy of some review. ## Finally… William McKinley was the president of the United States in 1901 until his assassination at the hands of [Leon Czolgosz](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leon_Czolgosz) (an acquaintance of former Rochesterian, Emma Goldman) in Buffalo. McKinley takes two bullets from Czolgosz’s gun on September 6. He survives the shots but eventually succumbs to gangrene a week later on September 14th.
# Thousands Of Bodies Buried In Upper Monroe! Where Are They? This program was developed & produced by the UMNA Local History Nerds and presented by Dick Halsey on Friday, October 27, 2023 at Artisan Church. Use of the facility was donated by the congregation of [Artisan Church](https://artisanchurch.com/). The [Swillburg Neighborhood Association](https://swillburg.com/) was a co-sponsor of this program. [Luci & Dona](https://www.lucianddona.com/), [Boldo's Armory](https://www.boldo.com/), [Dogtown ](https://dogtownhots.com/)and [Hydra Coffeehouse](https://hydracoffeehouse.com/) all supported this program in various ways. {% embed url="" %} Slideshow presented on October 27, 2023 {% endembed %} ### The researcher and presenter was noted local amateur historian, [Dick Halsey](https://mcnygenealogy.com/cem/st-pat.htm). ## Additional resources * [Dick Halsey's webpage on this particular topic. The information includes the list of those formerly interned at St. Patrick's cemetery on Pinnacle Hill.](https://mcnygenealogy.com/cem/st-pat.htm) * Dick Halsey's email * [Dick Halsey's Genealogy & History Corner (Blog)](https://rochistory.com/blog/) * [Links to current and past cemeteries in Rochester & Monroe County](https://www.findagrave.com/cemetery-browse/USA/New-York/Monroe-County?id=county_2005) * [GenWeb of Monroe County](https://mcnygenealogy.com/) * [Links to other genealogy pages](https://mcnygenealogy.com/links.htm#maps) ## A D\&C article from 1907
# Ice Skating On Lake Riley In Cobbs Hill Park This story was written by Alan Morrell of the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle. It was published January 23, 2024. Photos were found from a variety of online sources by the UMNA Local History Nerds.
## People loved skating in Cobbs Hills Park in Rochester. Why it's been gone for 30+ years Cobbs Hill Park provided a winter wonderland for ice skaters in Rochester for much of the 20th century as home to one of two natural rinks the city maintained. Skaters by the hundreds simultaneously cascaded across the frozen Lake Riley — actually, a pond — and before that, an area called the Eastern Widewaters. The city's other natural rink, at Maplewood Park, was much smaller than at Cobbs Hill, which first hosted citywide skating championships around the time World War I started. The city began operating artificial rinks for skating in the 1950s, as it still does today. By the 1980s, indoor rinks became all the rage. To purists, though, there's no comparison to the way skating used to be at Cobbs Hill — outdoors and on a frozen natural body of water.
Patti Singer wrote of the appeal in a 1994 Democrat and Chronicle story, after Lake Riley had already been closed to skaters. Hundreds of skaters take to the ice in this area called the Eastern Widewaters in Cobbs Hill Park in this circa 1930s photo. "The biggest difference between skating at an indoor rink and on a pond is the difference between driving the expressway at rush hour and traveling a country road," Singer wrote. "Skating outdoors provides the luxury of enjoying the surroundings — the color of the sky, how clean everything smells. The noise of children is muffled by the snow; skating alone, the silence can be so loud." At the time, as now, the city operated an outdoor ice skating rink at Manhattan Square Park (since renamed Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park). But that "doesn't count as natural ice," Singer wrote, "because compressors offer nature a helping hand." Cobbs Hill became a city park in 1908, when the body of water there was much larger than it is today. The original Erie Canal skirted the north edge of the park before the abandoned canal became Rochester's subway and then later an expressway, as Bob Marcotte wrote in a 2003 Democrat and Chronicle story. Workers use scrapers to prepare the ice at Cobbs Hill Park for skaters in this 1941 photo. "Part of the canal's waters spread over the broad, flat area just north of Cobbs Hill," Marcotte wrote. "The area was known as the Eastern Widewaters. Ice skaters have thronged its frozen surface for years." The Widewaters were the first place east of downtown where canal barges could turn around. The vast expanse, when frozen in winter, was an ideal place for skating. Later named Lake Riley (after a city parks commissioner), the size was vastly reduced in the late 1950s with fill dirt from the old subway bed when the "Eastern Expressway" (now Interstate 490) was being built. That decision caused some consternation, as evidenced by a 1958 letter to the editor. "Many, many times in the past, Riley Lake (sic) has been so crowded with skaters that one was actually cramped for space to skate," the writer noted. "Now, with its size nearly cut in half, will skating be better or worse?" Nancy Curtis helps Trent Culbertson, 5, stand up as he learns to skate for the first time in 1979 There had been a lot of history at those wide waters. A 1955 news story promoted the 42nd annual city of Rochester ice-skating championships at Cobbs Hill Park. A senior Olympic speed-skating champion from Hamlin told in a 1989 Times-Union story how he started skating at Cobbs Hill as a child. "After the Depression, there were no inside rinks, so we were dependent on outside ice," said the skater, Eugene Czerkas. "I had a grand, glorious time in those days." The city operated oodles of ice rinks over the ensuing years, at places like Carter Park, the Webster Avenue Recreation Center, Norton Village, the Danforth Recreation Center, the Edgerton Recreation Center, Manhattan Square Park and more. Genesee Valley Park has had several incarnations, including a covered rink that opened in 1987. All except Genesee Valley and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial are now closed. The natural rinks at Cobbs Hill and at Maplewood met that fate in 1991.
Jim Farr, director of the Rochester Public Market and a longtime assistant director of parks and recreation, said the city closed Lake Riley and Maplewood to skating for a variety of reasons. Budget cuts led to staffing cuts, he said, and maintaining the natural ponds became too cost-prohibitive. New indoor rinks, like Thomas Creek in Penfield, which opened in 1989, became more popular options for skaters. Natural rinks needed at least 51/2 inches of ice for safe skating, Farr said. Too often, that didn't materialize. "It's not just waiting for the 51/2 inches of ice to form," he said. "You have to remove the leaves from the water. You have to get the snow removed from the surface. There were some winters … when it was not so cold that we would only get 15 days of skating each winter. That's a lot of effort for 15 days." Skaters can still find places to skate on frozen ponds in Monroe County, but not like they did at Cobbs Hill. Morrell is a Rochester-based freelance writer. This story was originally published in February 2019 as part of the Whatever Happened To series.
# Bonfires at Cobbs Hill Park This post was adapted to focus on Cobbs Hill Park from a larger story titled "Twelfth Night Bonfires" written by Geoffrey Zeiner and posted to his blog, Gonechester in January, 2025. *** READ THE FULL POST ON [GONECHESTER.COM](https://gonechester.com/) *** Starting in the early 1930s, there was a revival in the celebration of Twelfth Night–or the twelfth day after Christmas–on January 6th by building a massive bonfire of old Christmas trees, wreaths, and laurels. An old custom, its renewal was inspired by local artist George M. Haushalter, who was pained by the ignominious end of the “tannenbaum” thrown aside at the end of Christmas. He suggested the great pyre was a more appreciative end for the festive greenery.

Tuesday, December 22, 1931
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-christmas-trees/162390027/

Friday, January 01, 1932
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-christmas-greens/162390224/

Friday, January 06, 1933
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-christmas-trees-w/162390421/

Saturday, January 07, 1933
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-twelfth-night-yul/162390527/

Saturday, January 06, 1934
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-twelfth-night-fir/162390693/

Sunday, December 27, 1936
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-new-road/162391414/

Monday, January 03, 1938
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-twelfth-night-glo/162398376/

Friday, January 06, 1939
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-theyll-sing-caro/162398665/

Sunday, January 07, 1940
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-twelfth-night-rit/162389399/

Tuesday, January 07, 1941
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-christmas-has-gon/162414442/

1941 would mark the last city-wide celebration of 12th Night until 1953, a lull kicked off by the United States’ entry into World War II. In 1943, George M. Haushalter died, likely believing his beloved 12th Night pyre had gone by the wayside.

Saturday, August 07, 1943
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-obituary-for-g-m/123748159/

Friday, January 07, 1944
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-greek-orthodox-tw/162414648/

Smaller, neighborhood Twelfth Night pyres took place throughout the city; one repeated site was a vacant lot at the corner of East Avenue and Portsmouth Terrace. The lot was formerly No. 814 East Avenue, home of Rodney S. Hatch, which was torn down in 1940.

Sunday, January 07, 1951
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-goodbye-christmas/162415070/

1950 Sanborn Map
Red: Vacant lot at East Avenue and Portsmouth Terrace, site of a 12th Night bonfire.
https://www.loc.gov/resource/g3804rm.g3804rm_g06217195005/?sp=9&r=0.501,0.692,0.697,0.42,0

Sunday, October 08, 1922
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-east-avenue-and-p/162549678/

Google Maps
Former vacant lot at East Avenue and Portsmouth Terrace, site of a 12th Night bonfire.

D&C Archive
A Twelfth Night bonfire at East Avenue and Portsmouth Terrace.
https://www.democratandchronicle.com/picture-gallery/news/local/rocroots/2014/10/12/from-the-archive/2869015/

At last, in 1953, Rochester again had a conflagration of Christmas greenery at Cobbs Hill; the sleeping tradition was awoken once again, to strongly continue for the next twenty years.

Wednesday, December 30, 1953
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-12th-night/162389238/

Wednesday, January 04, 1956
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-christmas-finale/162410426/

Wednesday, January 04, 1956
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-yule-trees-collec/162410551/

Saturday, January 07, 1956
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-final-glory/162410647/

Saturday, January 07, 1956
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-thousands-view-yu/162410722/

Monday, January 07, 1957
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-blaze-of-glory/162410861/

Monday, January 07, 1957
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-old-custom/30374895/

Tuesday, January 07, 1958
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-goodbye-christmas/162411284/

Tuesday, January 07, 1958
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-twelfth-night-cli/162411412/

1958 would be the last time the tree burning was held at Cobbs Hill; construction nearby the usual site required it to be moved. The bonfire would instead be held at Charlotte, near the Port Terminal, where a smaller Twelfth Night pyre previously had been held.

Wednesday, January 07, 1959
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-twelfth-night/162412255/

Wednesday, January 07, 1959
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-seasons-fiery-en/162412163/

Monday, January 04, 1960
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-charlotte-twelfth/162411745/

Monday, January 04, 1960
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-tree-burning-to-o/162411870/

Twelfth Night Christmas tree burnings would eventually be held at the Former Emerson Street Landfill:

https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-12th-night-tree-b/158907913/
Friday, January 06, 1961

The above article misnames “Booth Street” as “Boot Street”. Booth Street itself is no longer extant, replaced by parking and driveways for an industrial park on the southwest corner of Emerson and Colfax Streets. The Emerson Street Landfill was a disposal site for incinerator ash, and waste from construction and demolition. As landfill site, the place was somewhat unsuited to gatherings of people; there were concerns about rats and strange fumes. But inertia prevailed, and burnings were held there annually during the 1960s.

https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/department-environmental-services/environmental-cleanup-emerson-street-former-landfill

Monday, January 06, 1964
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-twelfth-night-chr/158903488/

Friday, January 07, 1966
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-twelfth-night-bon/158903461/

Friday, January 06, 1967
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-twelfth-night-lig/158903431/

Saturday, January 04, 1969
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-12th-night-yule-t/162399307/

In the early 1970s, increasing attention was being paid to air pollution, with pressure groups forming to advance clean-air initiatives in city government. This would serve as the death knell for garbage incineration. Along with it went the burning of thousands of Christmas trees. In its stead, a mulching program was introduced, with chips being used for civic parks and offered to citizens for private gardens.

Friday, December 10, 1971
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-recycle-yule-tree/162398790/

Though the move was a logical one when viewed from certain perspectives, it also resulted in the loss of yet another public spectacle. The social fabric and civil spirit of Rochester took a hit, during a time it was already getting its proverbial teeth kicked in.\ \ Decades later, people would stumble upon references to these great bonfires and react with surprise and wonder–people such as M. W. of Brighton, who wrote to the D\&C asking about a photo they happened upon in a Time-Life book, *The Pageantry of Christmas*.

1963 (Time-Life) The Pageantry of Christmas [p. 102]
https://archive.org/details/pageantryofchris02newy

Monday, January 02, 2006
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-used-christmas-tr/162358713/
https://www.newspapers.com/article/democrat-and-chronicle-burning-christmas/162370436/

It’s been over fifty years since the crackle and roar of thousands of flaming Christmas trees filled the air, entertaining the denizens of Rochester with spectacle and scent. Those children who beheld the mighty pyre with wondering, firelit eyes have long since grown into adulthood, the glimmer of flames in a crisp January night but a memory.
# Chaos, Devastation in the Heart of Upper Monroe (2025) This story was adapted from several articles in the UMNA Newsletter published after September 13, 2025. It provides a contemporaneous record of the incident. All photos by UMNA unless otherwise noted.

Photo by Galen Silver

*Chaos reigned in the heart of Upper Monroe last Saturday night when a water main burst. Nearby homes were devastated as massive amounts of water pushed into basements between Monroe Avenue and Rt. 490. Repairs to the water main will take several days. Cleanup and road repairs are expected to take weeks. Street closure may hurt businesses on Monroe Avenue.* *** A water leak seeping onto Monroe Avenue that began early in the day on Saturday became a torrent when a buried 36” water main burst in front of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star church near the corner of Rosedale Street. Over several hours tens of thousands of gallons of water gushed up from the metal wound creating a crater eventually measuring more than 15 feet wide and several feet deep. Once on the surface of Monroe Avenue most of the water quickly flowed down and away from Pinnacle Hill and Cobbs Hill in a northwesterly direction towards low lying sections in the neighborhood. Storm sewers in the area were overwhelmed by the volume of water causing backwash into basements. Many neighbors reported experiencing a temporary loss of water supply presumably related to city crews trying to stanch the unwelcomed river flowing from the break. Water supply was restored before dawn on Sunday morning without negatively affecting potability.
The escaping water quickly developed into a massive pool that covered a full block from Rosedale Street to Harwood Street washing over sidewalks on both sides of Monroe Avenue and leaving behind a slippery skin of mud on sidewalks and streets. Some of the decorative brick pavers installed on the corner of Rosedale in the late 1990s were upended or loosened in the process. Likewise, the lawn area and sections of a sidewalk leading to the church were damaged. As the waters rose Monroe Avenue became unpassable for vehicles causing chaos as turntail drivers sought escape routes. Most did so without incident but a number of others found it necessary to either lean on horns or flash headlights to avoid collision and express frustration. Private driveways and parking lots along Monroe Avenue saw heavy use. Side streets leading up from Monroe Avenue towards Pinnacle Hill carried the brunt of redirected traffic. Some neighbors on the scene were heard to express relief that the next few hours would be free of scofflaw motorcyclists while several onlooking neighbors turned from taking pictures & video to returning home to assess impacts related to the break at their properties.
By early Sunday morning the incident epicenter was marked off with yellow caution tape and marred by barricades and construction vehicles. City crews were hard at work all day. The supervisor on-site expected a permanent repair to the offending water pipe would take at least a day or two with temporary repairs to the street surface following thereafter. No one present at the scene knew for sure when damage to sidewalks and related city-maintained features would be addressed. They speculated final pavement repairs could take weeks.
Private catastrophes were added to all the public damage. Calls to UMNA and news reports revealed numerous neighbors dealing with water-related issues at their properties and to their cars. At least one neighbor described significant foundation damage. In addition, neighbors in the affected areas expressed anxiety related to various safety concerns stemming from the event. The days ahead are sure to be filled with myriad tasks associated with the aftereffects of this unfortunate incident. *** **WHAM13 -** [**Upper Monroe neighbors cleaning up after water main break as city continues repairs**](https://13wham.com/news/local/upper-monroe-neighbors-cleaning-up-after-water-main-break-city-continues-repair-work-aging-infrastructure-new-york-northeast-floods-rosedale-street-shepard-street-water-bureau-team) by Daniel Finkelstein Sun, September 14th 2025 at 11:10 PM - Updated Mon, September 15th 2025 at 4:18 PM {% file src="/files/c76sIixuDSqAtqt4s9Lp" %}
*** ### IMPACT913 The [IMPACT913: Water Main Break on Monroe Avenue](/hot-topics/past-hot-topics/impact913-water-main-break-on-monroe-avenue) page on this website provides contemporary, first person reports from residents describing damage and other related impacts from the water main break on 9/13. ### Community Meeting Thursday, September 25, 2025 The community information meeting on September 25, 2025 covering the water main break and its aftermath attracted approximately 75 people. For complete information about this meeting go to [2025 September 25: Community Meeting | Water Main Break](/events-and-meetings/2025-past-events/2025-september-25-community-meeting-or-water-main-break)
*** ### Monroe Avenue Reopened late afternoon on Friday, September 26th **WHAM13 -** [Stretch of Monroe Ave. reopens after extended closure following water main break](https://13wham.com/news/local/monroe-avenue-reopens-after-extended-closure-following-water-main-break-repairs-city-of-rochester-water-bureau-boil-advisory) Fri, September 26th 2025 at 6:05 PM Updated Fri, September 26th 2025 at 10:53 PM
Rosedale south of Monroe remained closed at that time.
# Real Estate Market Activity This page will give visitors a sense of market activity in the Upper Monroe Neighborhood in recent years based on sales information from online sources & the Greater Rochester Association of REALTORS. {% embed url="" %} ## 10 Highest Selling Single Family Homes in Upper Monroe *The information used to compile this list was found online using publicly accessible government websites like* [*cityofrochester.gov*](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/finance-department/property-data-assessment-sales-and-taxes) *and commercial sites like* [*zillow.com*](http://zillow.com) *as of July 3, 2025.*

1394 Highland Avenue $700K (2025)

1440 Highland Avenue $545 (2024)

86 Crosman Terrace $451K (2023)

215 Crosman Terrace $450K (2022)

28 Crosman Terrace $442K (2025)

21 Shepard Street $435 (2023)

221 Crosman Terrace $416K (2023)

64 Avondale Park $416K (2023)

1410 Highland Avenue $403K (2005)

138 Pinnacle Road $399K (2018)

*** ### Some general information about single family home sales since January, 2023\* Source: Greater Rochester Association of REALTORS (GRAR) as of June 28, 2025. * 19 single family homes sales were reported as sold in the Upper Monroe neighborhood since January, 2023; less than one per month on average. * The average asking price was reported as $266,893 (median asking price of $274,900). * The average sales price was reported as $341,398 (median sale price of $340,000). * The average reported ratio between the asking price and the sale price over this period of time was 127.91%. * The average sized house was reported as 2,187 square feet. * The average $/sqft was $157.54. * The average number of days on the market was reported as 7. *** ## Property Sales Activity YTD in 2025\* Source: Greater Rochester Association of REALTORS (GRAR) as of June 28, 2025. *This information includes four property categories: Single family homes (RES); Properties with 2-4 units (MUL); Properties with 5+ units (APT); and commercial properties (COM)* {% embed url="" %} ## Property Sales Activity from January 1, 2020 through December 31, 2024\* Source: Greater Rochester Association of REALTORS (GRAR) as of June 28, 2025. *This information includes four property categories: Single family homes (RES); Properties with 2-4 units (MUL); Properties with 5+ units (APT); and commercial properties (COM)* {% embed url="" %} ## Apartment Rental Activity from January, 2020 through June, 2025\* Source: Greater Rochester Association of REALTORS (GRAR) as of June 28, 2025. *It's important to note that only a very small portion of the total number of apartment rentals are listed in the GRAR database. Most apartments are offered privately. However, this list should give visitors a general sense of the rental market in the Upper Monroe neighborhood.* {% embed url="" %} *\* It is important to note that market condition vary quite a bit over time and from season to season over a single year. Use this information as a general guide. Do your own research, of course, and consult with a real estate professional for the most up-to-date information about current market conditions.* Check out our [Points of Interest](/about-the-neighborhood/points-of-interest) page to see cool stuff and plot out an interesting walk through the neighborhood. # Businesses & Non-Profits The Upper Monroe neighborhood features a wide variety of boutiques, offices, services, bars and restaurants along our "Main Street", Monroe Avenue, as well as in The Armory on Culver Road. ## **Monroe Avenue Corridor** The [**Monroe Avenue Merchants Association (MAMA)**](https://www.monroeavenue.com/) includes all of Monroe Avenue from downtown Rochester to the city line at Highland Avenue. Businesses and non-profit organizations located along Monroe Avenue between Rt. 490 and Highland Avenue: * [7-Eleven](https://www.mapquest.com/us/new-york/7-eleven-264872359) * [Al's Monroe Shoe Services](https://maps.app.goo.gl/mnehQjuabaAyfih5A) * [Apple Tattoo](http://www.tattooapple.com/about-rochester-tattoo-apple-tattoo-on-monroe-avenue) * [Bar Bad Ending](https://www.barbadending.com/) * [Blue Taro Restaurant | Boba & Cafe | Blue Taro Market](https://bluetaroroc.com/) * [Boldo's Armory](https://www.boldo.com/) * [Brotherhood Of The Cross & Star](https://ooo-bcsusa.org/bethels/) * [Center for Youth](https://www.centerforyouth.net/) * [Cobbs Hill Manor](https://www.facebook.com/cobbshillmanorassistedliving/) * [Congregation Beth Sholom](https://www.bethsholomrochester.org/) * [Flower City Driving School](https://www.driving-schools.com/school/flower-city-driving-school) * [Grass Fed Rochester](https://www.grassfedrochester.com/) * [H\&R Block](https://www.hrblock.com/local-tax-offices/new-york/rochester/891-monroe-ave/29944/) * [Hillside](https://hillside.com/) * [Hillside Manor Apartments](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063795530625) * [Jeremiah's Tavern](https://jeremiahstavern.com/) * [Los's Epic Cuts](https://www.facebook.com/pages/Loss-Epic-Cuts/188499094507699) * [Marlek's Major Styles Barbershop](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069587700987) * [Monroe Food Market](https://www.facebook.com/pages/Monroe-Food-Mkt/143314599034349) * [Monroe Sam Market](https://maps.app.goo.gl/DoY9UDtHkhjU4Mxj9) * [More Fire Glass Studio](https://www.morefireglass.com/) * [Park Avenue Pets](https://parkavepetsonmonroe.com/) * [Professional Office Suites](https://goo.gl/maps/RChzVz6q1nHZ5pJQ9?coh=178571\&entry=tt) * [Public School #35 & Field Street Recreation Center](https://www.rcsdk12.org/domain/7843) * [ScrubHubNY](https://www.scrubhubny.com/) * [Spiritual Vibes Botanica](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086410425032) * [Updegraff Group Realty](https://updegraffrealty.com/) ## [**The Armory on Culver Road**](https://culverroadarmory.com/) * [Arhaus](https://www.arhaus.com/pages/rochester-ny) * [Boylan Code](https://boylancode.com/) * [Erdman Anthony](https://www.erdmananthony.com/) * [Fleet Feet](https://www.fleetfeet.com/s/rochester) * [Lumos Infrared Sauna Studio](https://lumosinfraredsauna.com/) * [MRB Group](https://mrbgroup.com/) * [Peppermint](https://shop-peppermint.com/) * [Security Risk Advisors](https://sra.io/) * [Spoke Cycle + Fitness Studio](https://www.spokecycleandfitness.com/) * [TRATA ](https://tratarochester.com/) * [Village Bakery & Cafe](https://villagebakeries.com/) * [Walsh Duffield](https://walshduffield.com/) * [West Elm](https://www.westelm.com/stores/us-ny-rochester-the-armory/) Check out our [Points of Interest](/about-the-neighborhood/points-of-interest) page to see cool stuff and plot out an interesting walk through the neighborhood.
# Join UMNA Membership is an expression of support for the Upper Monroe neighborhood and an opportunity to help build a stronger community.
Our membership form is here: [#membership-form](#membership-form "mention") Not sure if you are already a member? Look here: [Current Members](/join-umna/members). ## Member Benefits * Membership entitles you to cast your vote and express your opinion at UMNA meetings on important issues described here: [Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association (UMNA)](/#umna-by-laws) * Membership entitles you to support the Upper Monroe neighborhood in myriad additional ways as a community activist and leader. * Membership entitles you to participate in the development of public positions advocated by UMNA representatives through work done on committees and taskforces. * Membership entitles you to receive information about neighborhood news and events. * Membership provides a model of engagement for an exciting, energized neighborhood. ## Dues A set dollar amount of dues is not required for membership in [UMNA](https://www.uppermonroe.org/). The *suggested* donation for individual members is $10.00 and $5.00 for a senior citizen/student/tenant **OR the amount of YOUR choice**. Once you complete the membership form below visit the [Donate](/donate) page to make a dues donation in any amount. Click here to read more information about UMNA membership: [Information & Requirements](/join-umna/member_info) Click here to read the UMNA privacy policy. [Privacy Policy](/join-umna/privacy) If you don't rent or own property located in Upper Monroe and you want to support the organization, please visit: [Donate](/donate) **|** [Get Involved](/get-involved)**.** *Questions? Please write to* [*umna@uppermonroe.org*](https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm\&fs=1\&tf=1\&to=umna@uppermonroe.org) ## Membership Form If you have trouble using the form below, [**CLICK HERE**](https://forms.gle/S88sMVKyyiA7w7c86). {% embed url="" %} Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association Membership Form 2023 {% endembed %} If you have trouble using the form above, [**CLICK HERE**](https://forms.gle/S88sMVKyyiA7w7c86). ## Membership by US Mail You can also join/renew your membership in UMNA by US mail. Just send your name; your street address located in the Upper Monroe neighborhood ([MAP](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1B2Ab7F53Ft4Yd7ELxpo9uRGZU3CR-Cc\&usp=sharing)); and your email address to: Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association c/o Rome Celli 64 Werner Park Rochester, New York 14620 You may include a dues donation along with your membership information, if you would like to do so. *​\*The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association (UMNA) is NOT a registered 501C3 non-profit charitable corporation under federal IR​S​ rules. Donations to UMNA (including dues donations) are not considered charitable donations and therefore not tax deductible as such.*
# Current Members This list includes current members meeting UMNA bylaws requirements. For administrative ease all **memberships end on December 31st of the current year and *****automatically***** renew on January 1st of the following year**. Donations related to membership are enthusiastically encouraged but not required. Typically, members are asked to donate in the spring of each year. In any case, donations are handled separately here: [Donate](/donate). You will find more information about UMNA membership here: [Information & Requirements](/join-umna/member_info) If you do not see your name listed below: [Join UMNA](/join-umna). {% embed url="" %}
# Information & Requirements Members of the Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association (UMNA) must meet all of the qualifications listed below. The information you provide is subject to confirmation by UMNA. 1. **Membership is open to individuals over 18 years of age who occupy or own property in the Upper Monroe neighborhood.** [**MAP**](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1B2Ab7F53Ft4Yd7ELxpo9uRGZU3CR-Cc\&usp=sharing)**.** * *Tenants as well as property owners located in the Upper Monroe neighborhood are eligible/encouraged to join.* * *Members must be human individuals and cannot be businesses, corporations, couples or families.* * *More than one individual over 18 may be a member at the same address (located in Upper Monroe -* [*MAP*](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1B2Ab7F53Ft4Yd7ELxpo9uRGZU3CR-Cc\&usp=sharing)*).* 2. **Members may vote on matters described in the UMNA rules and bylaws; serve on committees and help establish policy positions advocated by the Association.** * *Each member is entitled to participate, take certain actions and cast a vote on matters described in the* [Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association (UMNA)](/#umna-by-laws). * *Non-resident property owners are limited to one vote regardless of how many properties are owned in the Upper Monroe area.* [*MAP.*](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1B2Ab7F53Ft4Yd7ELxpo9uRGZU3CR-Cc\&usp=sharing) * *Property owners that reside in one location in Upper Monroe and also own one or more additional properties in Upper Monroe are entitled to one vote per resident of Upper Monroe.* [*MAP.*](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1B2Ab7F53Ft4Yd7ELxpo9uRGZU3CR-Cc\&usp=sharing) * *Tenants qualify for membership separately from property owners.* [*MAP.*](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1B2Ab7F53Ft4Yd7ELxpo9uRGZU3CR-Cc\&usp=sharing) 3. **Members must provide their contact information including their full name, verified email address and their street address located in the Upper Monroe neighborhood.** [**MAP.**](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1B2Ab7F53Ft4Yd7ELxpo9uRGZU3CR-Cc\&usp=sharing) * *Your contact information will be used to send you news and information about the Upper Monroe neighborhood, UMNA events/activities as well as other information UMNA believes will be of interest to you.* 4. **Members will be encouraged to support UMNA and participate in UMNA activities.** * *Participation in UMNA activities/events is strongly encouraged but NOT required.* * *Your UNMA membership status, benefits and voting rights will NOT be affected by whether or not you contribute or by how much you contribute.* 5. **All membership terms are one calendar year beginning on January 1st and ending on December 31st.** * *Memberships automatically renew each year so long as you meet the above requirements and your contact information remains unchanged OR your new information meets current membership requirements.* * *You may cancel your membership at any time by written notice to .* *By completing the UMNA membership form and meeting all these requirements you will be a member in good standing of UMNA*
# Privacy Policy **PRIVACY POLICY:** *The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association will not share your contact information with anyone outside of UMNA for any purposes except as required by governmental law or regulation without your explicit permission in advance. Your information will be used by UMNA solely for administrative purposes and to contact you about UMNA related information, events and activities and other information we reasonably believe will be of interest to you related to the metro Rochester community.*
# Donate Financial support for the Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association's work is one important way you can help support the Upper Monroe neighborhood.\* ## Donation Guidelines\* A set dollar amount of dues is not required for membership in [UMNA](https://www.uppermonroe.org/). The *suggested* donation for individual members is $10.00 and $5.00 for a senior citizen/student/tenant **OR the amount of YOUR choice**. Financial donations to UMNA may not be designated for particular purposes or limited to any particular use except when UMNA designates a particular purpose. All donations contribute to UMNA's general operating fund. However, if you would are interested in organizing a fundraising campaign to target a particular purpose or if you would like more information about UMNA's budget or finances please write to [umna@uppermonroe.org](mailto:undefined). ## Who might want to donate? 1. Those who have just joined UMNA and would like to make a dues donation. FYI: If you are not already a member of UMNA and you would like to consider joining, please go to [Join UMNA](/join-umna). 2. Those who are already members of UMNA and who want to make an **additional** financial donation. 3. Those who are **not** members or who are **not** located in Upper Monroe neighborhood and would like to make a financial donation. ## Donation Links: **PAYPAL:** [Use this link to make your donation\* directly to UMNA via PayPal](https://paypal.me/UpperMonroeNA?country.x=US\&locale.x=en_US) OR [go to your PayPal account](https://www.paypal.com/signin)/app. Use **** to identify UMNA. **VENMO:** [Use this link to make your donation\* to UMNA via Venmo](https://www.venmo.com/u/uppermonroe_na) OR [go to your Venmo account](https://venmo.com/account/sign-in)/app. Use **@uppermonroe\_na** to identify UMNA. OR You can send a paper check made out to "Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association" via US postal service. Please write to for the best address. ### Not sure if you are already a donor? See our current [Donor List](/donate/donor-list) *​\*The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association (UMNA) is NOT a registered 501C3 non-profit charitable corporation under federal IR​S​ rules. Donations to UMNA (including dues donations) are not considered charitable donations and therefore not tax deductible as such.*
# Donor List UMNA deeply appreciates all those who contribute money to UMNA and to special projects that support the Upper Monroe neighborhood! ## Current Year Donors & Donations Donations are calculated on a calendar basis beginning on Janary 1st and ending on December 31st each year. {% embed url="" %} ## Notes * Not all donors are members. UMNA receives donations from individuals and entities that are not eligible for membership. Donations may be contributed by - and attributed to - a couple, a family, a business, an organization or any other legal entity. A member, on the other hand, must be an individual human. For more information about member eligibility see [Information & Requirements](/join-umna/member_info). * UMNA neither identifies the amount of each donation nor does it group donations by amount. However, you will find the aggregate year-to-date dollar amount donated and the average donation calculated at the bottom of the donor list. * Income from donations come in two forms: money donations (cash, paper check, and EFT) and indirect donations in the form of unreimbursed expenses. In the later case we are referring to those neighbors who pay for an UMNA expense (garden supplies, for example) but do not *want* to be reimbursed by UMNA. UMNA recognizes those donors AND tracks the indirect expenses so the organization's budgeting and planning represent practical realities of how much money it takes to run the organization. * ​The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association (UMNA) is NOT a registered 501C3 non-profit charitable corporation under federal IR​S​ rules. Donations to UMNA (including dues donations) are not considered charitable donations and therefore not tax deductible as such. *** ## Prior Years Donors & Donations {% embed url="" %} {% embed url="" %}
# Get Involved The commitment Upper Monroe neighbors make to their community is the driving force of UMNA. If you would like to consider joining UMNA, please visit this page: [Join UMNA](/join-umna). If you have trouble using the form below, [**CLICK HERE**](https://forms.gle/LLyirHc6Keio6B9u9). {% embed url="" %} If you have trouble using the form above, [**CLICK HERE**](https://forms.gle/LLyirHc6Keio6B9u9).
# Help bring 2025 projects to life This page invites community engagement on some of UMNA's goals for 2025. For more information about UMNA's goals please visit [2025 UMNA Work Plan](/work-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-work-plan) [If you have trouble using the form embedded on this page, please click here to go directly to the form.](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe17KIfgS11hof8IBF90_3b1HMvW4jcBKuq9M0gPzXmPU2shQ/viewform?usp=sharing\&ouid=110519966697179432844) {% embed url="" %}
# Help create a friendlier neighborhood This page invites engagement on one of UMNA's goals. For more information about UMNA's goals please visit [2025 UMNA Work Plan](/work-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-work-plan) [If you have trouble using the form embedded on this page, please click here to go directly to the form.](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe_INlJFFYOdxE7mlKIRC9v9zLQJLEFsHS-jCOthTyh2BoMeA/viewform?usp=sf_link) {% embed url="" %}
# Help revitalize Monroe Avenue This page invites engagement on one of UMNA's goals. For more information about UMNA's goals please visit [Multi-year Monroe Avenue Revitalization Plan](/work-plan-and-budget/multi-year-monroe-avenue-revitalization-plan) [If you have trouble using the form embedded on this page, please click here to go directly to the form.](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) {% embed url="" %}
# #ShareTheCare of our community gardens This page supports engagement in the care of community gardens located in the Upper Monroe neighborhood. ## #ShareTheCare \#ShareTheCare invites participation in the care of our community gardens. The needs of community gardening vary throughout the year. The form below describes the current needs. As the needs change over time this form is updated. See more information about our community gardens here [Gardens & Gardening](/about-the-neighborhood/gardens-and-gardening) {% embed url="" %}
# Help preserve, enhance & celebrate the historic and unique characteristics found in Upper Monroe This page invites engagement on one of UMNA's goals. For more information about UMNA's goals please visit [2025 UMNA Work Plan](/work-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-work-plan) [If you have trouble using the form embedded on this page, please click here to go directly to the form.](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfdNPHg99vLHKQGtjBB7Bjye7RUvO4oQEJMMRUnRnNK5DS73A/viewform?usp=sf_link) {% embed url="" %}
# Help engage on bigger issues that impact our neighborhood This page invites engagement on one of UMNA's goals. For more information about UMNA's goals please visit [2025 UMNA Work Plan](/work-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-work-plan) [If you have trouble using the form embedded on this page, please click here to go directly to the form.](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScA0dKbKnOJysy5M1DTdl9w4AU-u-zmgGyD7tuOwd0bDyk-iA/viewform?usp=sf_link) {% embed url="" %}
# Help collaborate with & support neighboring businesses and organizations This page invites engagement on one of UMNA's goals. For more information about UMNA's goals please visit [2025 UMNA Work Plan](/work-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-work-plan) [If you have trouble using the form embedded on this page, please click here to go directly to the form.](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd8KuvV61EGTsrVI_HI1Wsf2ER-STdhLDSrZENhuTVtqkyF_w/viewform?usp=sf_link) {% embed url="" %}
# Help build UMNA's organizational capacity This page invites engagement on one of UMNA's goals. For more information about UMNA's goals please visit [2025 UMNA Work Plan](/work-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-work-plan) [If you have trouble using the form embedded on this page, please click here to go directly to the form.](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQ9053EA1O5ACwn3_LfgGn4aa17_NYaog7bxvUXeZeACnc7Q/viewform?usp=sf_link) {% embed url="" %}
# Work Plan & Budget This section is devoted to sharing the current, past and potential future UMNA work plans and budgets. # 2026 UMNA Work Plan The 2026 UMNA Work Plan was developed over the fall and early winter months. The plan was reviewed and approved at the UMNA annual meeting in March of 2026. {% embed url="" %}
# 2026 UMNA Budget The 2026 UMNA Budget was developed over the fall and early winter months. The Budget was reviewed and approved at the UMNA annual meeting in March of 2026. {% embed url="" %}
# Multi-year Monroe Avenue Revitalization Plan Monroe Avenue is our "Main Street". Beginning in 2024 UMNA will embark on a multi-year, comprehensive project to enhance Monroe Avenue. {% embed url="" %} # Monroe Avenue is WELCOMING The UMNA multi-year Monroe Avenue revitalization effort is comprised of seven goals. The goals are expressed with aspirational language; language that describes the future we want to see. *** *People traveling along Monroe Avenue and visiting destinations in our area can see they are in neighborhood and feel the sense of a friendly, welcoming community.* *** ### 1. Neighborhood signs and community gardens announce and celebrate our neighborhood inviting engagement with our community and our businesses #### Action beginning in 2024 * Our community gardens are beautiful and well maintained by committed volunteers from the Upper Monroe neighborhood and others. **Time frame:** Ongoing. Spring cleanup and prep by May 1st; Summer maintenance schedule in place by June 1st; Fall preparation for winter by October 31st * Evaluate neighborhood signs on Monroe Avenue. If these signs require repair or replacement, research options and establish work group(s) to accomplish the work **Time frame:** Sign evaluation to be completed by May 1, 2024. **UPDATE:** Cosmetic work will be completed on both signs in 2024 by neighborhood volunteers. Replacement of the sign at Engel Place will be considered later in 2024 or early in 2025. [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) ### 2. Everyone experiences a warm and welcoming atmosphere on Monroe Avenue #### Action beginning in 2024 * Reach out to businesses along Monroe Avenue to encourage opportunities to connect with neighbors and the public at large. This effort will include encouraging businesses on Monroe in our area to join and participate in the [Monroe Avenue Merchants Association (MAMA)](https://www.monroeavenue.com/). **Time frame:** Outreach to businesses to be completed by May 1, 2024. * Encourage our residents to stop by businesses to say hello and patronize those businesses. **Time frame:** Engagement with residents will be ongoing. Primarily, this will a communications effort accomplished through our newsletter, social media and word-of-mouth. [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) # Monroe Avenue is CLEAN & WELL MAINTAINED The UMNA multi-year Monroe Avenue revitalization effort is comprised of seven goals. The goals are expressed with aspirational language; language that describes the future we want to see. *** *People traveling along and across Monroe Avenue experience a clean streetscape with well maintained properties* *** ### 1. Monroe Avenue is free of trash & debris #### Actions beginning in 2024 * Participate in the City of Rochester's program known as “Clean Sweep”. UMNA puts it's unique spin on this program calling it "Clean & Preen" so that we can attach some spring preening around our community gardens on and near Monroe Avenue. More on this topic under [Monroe Avenue is a PLACE & a DESTINATION](/work-plan-and-budget/multi-year-monroe-avenue-revitalization-plan/monroe-avenue-is-a-place-and-a-destination). * Partner with “[Walking For Rochester](https://walkingforrochester.org/)” to tidy up Monroe Ave on a regular basis over the warm weather months. **Time frame:** Once every few weeks through the warm weather months ### LEARN ABOUT SPONSORING WALKING FOR ROCHESTER IN 2025 {% file src="/files/LkTIudIXOT7aCUYaRYGz" %} [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) ### 2. Properties along Monroe Avenue are well maintained and in compliance with applicable City codes and regulations #### Action * Partner & problem-solve with the City of Rochester's Southeast Neighborhood Service Center to bring properties along Monroe Avenue into code compliance * [Code Compliance "High Priority" Cases](/hot-topics/code-compliance-high-priority-cases) **Time frame:** Ongoing * Partner with property owners along Monroe Avenue to support their efforts to bring their properties into code compliance **Time frame:** Ongoing * Publicly recognize exemplary property owners with an annual award. * [Highland Award for commercial or rental property ownership in Upper Monroe](/awards-and-recognition/highland-award-for-commercial-or-rental-property-ownership-in-upper-monroe) **Time frame:** Early June, 2024 and annually thereafter. [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) # Monroe Avenue is a PLACE & a DESTINATION The UMNA multi-year Monroe Avenue revitalization effort is comprised of seven goals. The goals are expressed with aspirational language; language that describes the future we want to see. *** *Community creativity transforms Monroe Avenue from a transportation "corridor" that divides the neighborhood into a destination through interactive "placemaking"* *** ### 1. Our community gardens along and near Monroe Avenue are well supported #### Action beginning in 2024 * 2024 - Encourage more neighbors to participate in the ongoing care and cultivation of community gardens beginning with [Monroe Avenue is CLEAN & WELL MAINTAINED](/work-plan-and-budget/multi-year-monroe-avenue-revitalization-plan/monroe-avenue-is-clean-and-well-maintained) each spring **Time frame: "**Clean & Preen" program will be complete by May 4, 2024 * 2024 - Provide funding for materials (mulch, plantings) necessary to keep our community gardens looking good **Time frame:** Completed by May 31st * Restore the “Children’s Garden” on Laburnam Crescent as one of our community gardens **Time frame:** Completed by Fall, 2024 [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) # Monroe Avenue is a VIBRANT BUSINESS DISTRICT The UMNA multi-year Monroe Avenue revitalization effort is comprised of seven goals. The goals are expressed with aspirational language; language that describes the future we want to see. *** *Neighbors and businesses support each other directly and indirectly.* *** ### 1. Neighbors and businesses work together to drive economic activity on Monroe Avenue #### Action beginning in 2024 * Neighbors visit businesses to learn more about their products and services **Time frame:** Ongoing * The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association and the Monroe Avenue Merchants Association (MAMA) reach out to every business on Monroe Avenue with an offer of discounted combined membership in the both organizations. By doing so businesses will connect with other businesses as well as with nearby neighbors. **Time frame:** The initial outreach effort will be completed by May 31, 2024 * MAMA & UMNA will impliment a variety of programs and activities such as "Small Business Saturday" to encourage neighbors to visit businesses. [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) ### 2. Businesses are engaged with neighbors to enhance the Upper Monroe neighborhood #### Action beginning in 2024 * Businesses support neighborhood activities and programs and, in doing so, promote their business interests and help create a general environment of economic vibrancy. **Time frame:** Ongoing [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) # Monroe Avenue is SAFE & COMPASSIONATE The UMNA multi-year Monroe Avenue revitalization effort is comprised of seven goals. The goals are expressed with aspirational language; language that describes the future we want to see. *** *The community on and around Monroe Avenue supports a safe and compassionate environment.* *** ### 1. Pedestrians & cyclists feel comfortable navigating along and across Monroe Avenue #### Action beginning in 2024 * The stripped crosswalk between Werner Park & Culver Road is enhanced with better signage and a pedestrian island **Time frame:** Beginning in the spring of 2024 and completed by the fall of 2025. **UPDATE:** In May, 2024 UMNA and area residents participated at a public meeting to hear details for this improvement and provide commentary to the City of Rochester. [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) ### 2. Community members are engaged in activities to enhance public safety. #### Action beginning in 2024 * UMNA leadership undertakes formal training through the Rochester Police Department and informal research available in the public domain **Time frame:** Completed by April 30, 2024 **UPDATE:** In March, 2024 a representative of UMNA completed the Rochester Police Department's Citizen Police Academy training program. **UPDATE:** In April, 2024 a representative of UMNA completed the Rochester Police Department's PAC-TAC training program. * UMNA launches at least one pilot program **Time frame:** Completed by October 31, 2024 [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) ### 3. The economically disadvantaged and unhoused who are present on and near Monroe Avenue are engaged and supported with compassion by professional organizations best equipped to do so. #### Action beginning in 2024 * UMNA invites and supports partnerships with local non-profits, government agencies and the Rochester Police Department to reach out to the economically disadvantaged and unhoused on and near Monroe Avenue with the intent of providing housing and other services as appropriate to the individual circumstances of those in need. **Time frame:** This effort will commence immediately and the efforts will be ongoing [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) # Monroe Avenue succeeds through COLLABORATION The UMNA multi-year Monroe Avenue revitalization effort is comprised of seven goals. The goals are expressed with aspirational language; language that describes the future we want to see. *** *Our part of Monroe Avenue is one small section of a much longer and interconnected road with varied interests and important transitions. Collaboration with those along Monroe Avenue will raise the bar for all the nearby neighborhoods.* *** ### 1. By working in common cause with all the neighborhoods and businesses along Monroe Avenue we can address the largest and most difficult problems facing Monroe Avenue and promote the future success of our area #### Action beginning in 2024 * UMNA is an active participate in the recently formed [Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC)](/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) **Time frame:** Ongoing [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) ### 2. Partner with all levels of government #### Action beginning in 2024 * UMNA is an active participate in the recently formed [Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC)](/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) **Time frame:** Ongoing [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) ### 3. Partner with other various non-profit and civic organizations in the wider community that share our goals #### Action beginning in 2024 * UMNA is an active participate in the recently formed [Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC)](/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) **Time frame:** Ongoing [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) # Monroe Avenue evolves through community ENGAGEMENT The UMNA multi-year Monroe Avenue revitalization effort is comprised of seven goals. The goals are expressed with aspirational language; language that describes the future we want to see. Look for opportunities to shape Monroe Avenue more significantly through community-driven design and mindful development [CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE YOUR CREATIVITY & ENERGY TO THIS EFFORT](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe6vBBM9mrWWrYSpAu0VhXHkv55wRp89IYDmzbx16grI0mQFg/viewform?usp=sf_link) # 2025 UMNA Plan & Budget The 2024 work plans began development in the fall of 2023. The final drafts were presented and approved at the 2024 UMNA Annual Meeting. # 2025 UMNA Work Plan The 2025 UMNA Work Plan was developed over the fall and early winter months. The plan was reviewed and approved at the UMNA annual meeting in March of 2025. {% embed url="" %} ### UPDATE on the 2025 NIA grant to the Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association In April, 2025 UMNA's NIA grant application was approved for $3,000. NIA funders offered UMNA an additional $7,000, if programs that fit NIA goals and specifications could be identified by UMNA. The UMNA NIA Grant Work Group prepared and submitted a supplemental request for $7,000 to NIA. NIA approved the supplemental request in May, 2025. As a result, the total NIA grant to UMNA for 2025 is $10,000. The budget and expense tracking form associated with the NIA grant may be found on the 2025 UMNA Budget page <[HERE](https://www.uppermonroe.com/2025-work-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-budget)>. ### Original program narratives for the NIA grant - approved April, 2025 {% embed url="" %} ### *Supplemental* program narratives for the NIA grant - approved May, 2025 {% embed url="" %}
# 2025 UMNA Budget The 2025 UMNA Budget was developed over the fall and early winter months. The Budget was reviewed and approved at the UMNA annual meeting in March of 2025. {% embed url="" %} ### UPDATE on the 2025 NIA grant to the Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association In April, 2025 UMNA's NIA grant application was approved for $3,000. NIA funders offered UMNA an additional $7,000, if programs that fit NIA goals and specifications could be identified by UMNA. The UMNA NIA Grant Work Group prepared and submitted a supplemental request for $7,000 to NIA. NIA approved the supplemental request in May, 2025. As a result, the total NIA grant to UMNA for 2025 is $10,000. The program narratives associated with the NIA grant may be found on the 2025 UMNA Work Plan page <[HERE](https://www.uppermonroe.com/2025-work-plan-and-budget/2025-umna-work-plan)>. ## The NIA grant budget & expense tracking sheets {% embed url="" %}
# 2024 UMNA Plan & Budget The 2024 work plans began development in the fall of 2023. The final drafts were presented and approved at the 2024 UMNA Annual Meeting. # 2024 UMNA Work Plan The 2024 work plan development process began in the fall of 2023. The final draft was presented and approved at the 2024 UMNA Annual Meeting. [CLICK HERE TO COMMENT ON THE UMNA 2024 WORK PLAN](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PW5zzZTZvj8zhTTOeDAE_Stwd9oGwENa-zPsvNAeCy4/edit?usp=sharing) {% embed url="" %}
# 2024 UMNA Budget The 2024 budget development process began in the fall of 2023. The final draft was presented and approved at the 2024 UMNA Annual Meeting. {% embed url="" %}
# Hot Topics The links in the "Hot Topics" section usually issue-oriented and result in projects or work groups. Some will be resolved realtively quickly while others may linger on for some time. # Adopt-A-Block Adopt-A-Block activates designated neighbors on every street that crosses Monroe Avenue. Each person periodically walks down to the corner and picks up litter at the end of their street. {% embed url="" %} ## Status of blocks along Monroe Avenue: 1. Alliance Avenue & Monroe Avenue - ADOPTED 2. Avondale Street & Monroe Avenue - ADOPTED 3. Belmont Street & Monroe Avenue - **AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION** 4. Crosman Terrace & Monroe Avenue - ADOPTED 5. Culver Road & Monroe Avenue - ADOPTED 6. Field Street/Engel Place & Monroe Avenue - ADOPTED 7. Harwood Street & Monroe Avenue - ADOPTED 8. Laburnam Crescent & Monroe Avenue (north side) - ADOPTED 9. Laburnam Crescent & Monroe Avenue (south side) - ADOPTED 10. Pinnacle Road & Monroe Avenue - ADOPTED 11. Rosedale Street & Monroe Avenue (south side) - ADOPTED 12. Rosedale Street & Monroe Avenue (north side) - ADOPTED 13. Shepard Street & Monroe Avenue - ADOPTED 14. Suter Terrace & Monroe Avenue- ADOPTED 15. Werner Park & Monroe Avenue - **AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION** ## Program Background & Description **Adopt-A-Block** activates neighbors on/near every street that crosses Monroe Avenue. Each person periodically walks down to the corner and picks up the stray bits of litter along their ONE BLOCK section of Monroe Avenue. While they’re out they can keep an eye on any larger items or overflowing city trash bins and then call them in to 311. Simple & effective! [CLICK TO ADOPT YOUR BLOCK OF MONROE AVENUE](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAga0Y3FfIbpFGBuL9uIYVogfBEMyQcfBomdza_1jQQrxnIQ/viewform?usp=sharing\&ouid=110519966697179432844) Each person will have an official "GloMonroe Grabber" and a "GloMonroe Bucket".
[GET YOUR GLOMONROE GEAR](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAga0Y3FfIbpFGBuL9uIYVogfBEMyQcfBomdza_1jQQrxnIQ/viewform?usp=sharing\&ouid=110519966697179432844) This is an excellent way to participate in the success of our neighborhood in a manageable way, at your own pace and on your own schedule. It’s also an ideal way for responsible teens to make a difference. {% file src="/files/rM3ajLOWdA5WqlQ4RTf0" %} *** **Adopt-A-Block** has been picked up by the [Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC)](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) and is being reproduced by every neighborhood group from one end of Monroe Avenue to the other. We’re working as one big team to lift up Monroe Avenue!
# Resources for Renters This section offers resources for those who rent apartments and homes in Upper Monroe. Much of this information may be helpful no matter where you live in the City of Rochester. # Quick Info & Links {% file src="/files/2fuQQwSrTEXBu71qpu7o" %} [Free Tenant Resources](https://www.thehousingcouncil.org/free-resources): **The Housing Council at PathStone** serves to increase successful homeownership and tenancy experiences for low- to moderate-income residents in Monroe County and surrounding counties. Grant programs are administered for local municipalities, New York State, private foundations, and federal programs, [City-wide Tenant Union of Rochester](https://roctenantunion.org/) - **The City-Wide Tenant Union (CWTU) of Rochester** is a grassroots housing justice movement to elevate housing to a human right and secure community control over land and housing by building tenant power and expanding the rights of all tenants. {% file src="/files/76IPBDcdzJGyUh7u00pF" %} {% file src="/files/Pqmydi5W13RSaUG2gyJd" %} # Property Condition Related Issues Questions or concerns sometimes come up around the condition of an apartment or home you currently rent or a unit you are considering. This page offers some helpful resources. Naturally, the first - and usually the most efficient/effective - path to successfully address any concerns about the condition of the apartment or home you rent is through your landlord. Sometimes landlords are not aware a problem exists until their tenant notifies them of the issue. So, it only makes sense to notify your landlord and give your landlord ample time to address the concern. Unless you have an agreement with your landlord that allows for such things, tenants may make the repairs directly (using a private contractor or DIY). in nearly all cases tenants may not withhold rent to leverage repairs. If your landlord is not making the repair satisfactorily, you should contact your attorney before taking any other action. ## C**ode compliance information** The City of Rochester tracks property code compliance on every property. You can now see updated code compliance information about the property you current rent as well as any property you are considering renting. #### **Research the City code compliance database <**[**HERE**](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/buildingblocks)**>**
Some background info on the City's code compliance database In 2024 the City of Rochester partnered with a high tech company to track and display information about the status of code compliance for every property in the City of Rochester. As of July, 2024 the information is incomplete and, at times, either inaccurate or misleading. Nevertheless, this information can open the door to very useful information for current and prospective tenants in better understanding the code compliance status of properties. This project was supported by grant funding from the NYS Attorney General’s Office, via the Enterprise Community Partners’ Cities RISE program. The program is intended to support innovative projects to advance equitable code enforcement. The Property Manager/Owner scoring system was envisioned to provide an objective and transparent public scoring system that could be used to drive improvements in code compliance. It could be used by City staff to target enforcement, as well as provide tenants better insight when making decisions on who to rent from. \ \ To make the scoring system a reality, City staff worked in partnership with counterparts at Tolemi. The City has provided Tolemi live feeds of code enforcement and property data for public access in their BuildingBlocks online platform since 2017. Building upon this, Tolemi developed an algorithm that ingests this data and processes the scoring system for viewing in BuildingBlocks.\ \ The scoring system was also workshopped extensively with the Landlord/Tenant Advisory Committee, which is convened by the City to provide input on proposed policies and initiatives. The group is comprised of the leaders of all the known landlord associations, other small landlords, as well as tenant and community advocates. The committee provided valuable feedback which was incorporated into the final design of the scoring system.
If you have questions about open code violations, or need to schedule an inspection, please email: [CofO@CityofRochester.gov](https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm\&fs=1\&tf=1\&to=CofO@CityofRochester.gov) ## City Inspectors There may be times when you need to reach out to a City of Rochester code compliance inspector directly to report a problem, follow-up on a concern or schedule an inspection. #### **Find your code inspector is <**[**HERE**](https://maps.cityofrochester.gov/portal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=b7ccd37b38044e93ae724f4a26f5741b)**>** ## Links [Leaky roofs, dangerous stairs, vermin, mold](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OoFMMlfomlPexM0Uqv9h1iDR9jL4HHEe/view?usp=sharing) - **Democrat & Chronicle** - July, 2024 [Is your rental safe? How to look up Rochester property violations](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mJP9NkYW8NMyLcscWDxLW5Y-J5ONGJJ8/view?usp=sharing) - **Democrat & Chronicle** - June, 2024 If you have technical questions, please email: [CivicsTechSupport@CityofRochester.gov](https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm\&fs=1\&tf=1\&to=CivicsTechSupport@CityofRochester.gov) # Eviction Related Issues This page shares information about eviction related concerns faced by some renters.
### Good Cause Eviction Protections Are Approved by Rochester City Council Rochester City Council recently voted to opt-in on “Good Cause Eviction” legislation offered by New York State. The New York State legislature developed the law as a template, allowing municipalities around the State to mould the legislation in certain limited ways to meet local needs and interests. A majority of council members voted to enact the highest standard version of the law offered by New York State. As a practical matter that means the maximum number of tenants will be protected and, by implication, the maximum number of landlords will have to comply. Proponents believe the law will help with housing & rent stability while opponents are concerned the new law may discourage the development of new housing units and make it harder for smaller landlords to continue; causing a consolidation that results in fewer landlords controlling more of the market. Still, the new law won’t impact every landlord. Owner-occupied properties with 10 or fewer residential units are exempted as are “luxury” apartments (with rents higher than 245% of fair market rates). A host of other exemptions are also allowed under the new law. When it came down to the vote not everyone agreed with the proposal. Council Vice President and South District representative, LaShay Harris and Michael Patterson, representing the City’s North East District, both voted “No.” [Click this link to read "Rochester City Council passes Good Cause eviction law"](https://rochesterbeacon.com/2024/12/17/rochester-city-council-passes-good-cause-eviction-law/) **By Justin O'Connor on RochesterBeacon.com - November, 2024** [Good Cause Eviction info on RocTenantUnion.org](https://roctenantunion.org/good-cause) *** #### Additional Links [Eviction Prevention Resources](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/eviction-prevention-resources) - **City of Rochester webpage -** The City and community partners understand that the COVID-19 pandemic has been an extremely challenging time for tenants and landlords. Many tenants have experienced job loss and reduced income, and have had difficulty keeping up with their rent. According to recent surveys of property owners by Monroe County and City of Rochester in partnership with the Ash Center at Harvard University, approximately 25% of rental units in the city of were behind on their rent as of March 2021. With property owners expected to file a wave of evictions, there is urgency to help connect these families to resources as quickly as possible. The City of Rochester and Monroe County have partnered to implement programs designed to help. Please see below for more information. # Rent Stabilization Related Issues Rochester City Council is considering if it should adopt rent stabilization standards in the City but the question is tricky because they cannot act unless the vacancy rate is below 5%. Rochester City Council recently voted to conduct another analysis to see if the rental vacancy rate is less than 5%. If it is, then City Council is permitted to take action to stabilize rents in Rochester. *** #### Links [Housing advocates push for new study on rental vacancy rates in Rochester](https://www.wxxinews.org/local-news/2024-01-17/housing-advocates-push-for-new-study-on-rental-vacancy-rates-in-rochester) - **WROC/RochesterFirst.com** - January, 2024 [Rochester gets a second shot at rent control study](https://www.wxxinews.org/local-news/2023-12-18/rochester-gets-a-second-shot-at-rent-control-study) - **Democrat & Chronicle** - December, 2023 # Matters Related To Planning & Zoning This section is designed to notify the community about matters before the ZBA and to community engagement on those matters. # Digital billboards proposed 21-25 Canterbury This page provides information about a variance application by Lamar Outdoor Advertising to allow three billboards at 25 Canterbury Road.
The ZBA map of all cases for the entire City of Rochester is <[HERE](https://maps.cityofrochester.gov/portal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=ba2fed2440314b7d921c282b04ee6d4b\&forceDesktop)>. The map includes links to detailed information that may be downloaded. UMNA strongly recommends you review the information provided by the City of Rochester. Much of the information regarding this application is available below. ### This page has been updated with new information about the application as of May 27, 2026. Please see update information below. ## Background UMNA recently became aware of a new variance application pending before the City of Rochester [Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA)](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/zoning-board-appeals-zba) that, if approved, would allow construction of a52' foot high metal monopole with a two-sided configuration that would include two illuminated digital billboard signs along Rt. 490; one facing east, the other west. The two *digital* billboards would be illuminated all day, every day and all night, every night all year-round. Each digital billboard would change it's message every few seconds resulting in thousand upon thousands of changing messages each and every day. This new application follows a prior application at the same site that was submitted by Lamar Outdoor Advertising at the end of 2024 and then withdrawn early in 2025 before the case was heard by the ZBA. Background information about the 2024-2025 application may be found <[**HERE**](/hot-topics/matters-related-to-planning-and-zoning/completed-or-digital-billboards-proposed-near-upper-monroe-and-cobbs-hill-on-rt-490)>. *** * *NOTE: 21-25 Canterbury Road is also under review by the City of Rochester for extensive upgrades and renovations to the building itself. The proposed billboards, while sited at that building, are neither essential nor integral to the overall renovation plans. Failure to obtain a variance for the billboards would have no impact on the physical renovation and should be considered a separate matter. UMNA supports the renovation plan apart from the variance described on this page.* *** ## UPDATE: May 25, 2026 It was a nailbiter but, in the end, the Rochester City Council unanimously passed a citywide moratorium on May 19, 2026 that effectively halts all new applications and all applications in process that would require city approval for outdoor advertisements until the new zoning codes passes or one year (whichever is sooner). The moratorium will allow residents and members of City Council to look more closely at outdoor advertisements as part of a comprehensive review of the upcoming proposed new zoning code scheduled for later this summer. While the application to approve the massive blinking digital billboards proposed for the corner of Monroe Avenue and Canterbury Road has been stopped (at least for the time being), the newly passed legislation will not impede the ongoing development of the properties at that location; a development project local neighborhoods have supported since first becoming aware of it. Many neighborhood organizations from all over Rochester joined with the Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association; the Park Meigs Neighborhood Association, the Lock 66 Neighborhood Association; the Pearl Meigs Monroe Neighborhood Association; the ABC Streets Neighborhood Association and the Highland Park Neighborhood Association to support the moratorium. It wasn’t a slam dunk. Lamar Advertising Company, Inc., Lamar’s paid lobbyist-attorney, the developer of 25 Canterbury Road and a number of the company’s other customers argued passionately against the moratorium before the Rochester City Planning Commission (CPC) and Rochester City Council. Neighborhood leaders involved in the effort presented a united front and spoke with one voice at both forums. The CPC responded by voting to “recommend” the moratorium legislation but allow all applications currently in process (including the digital billboards on Monroe & Canterbury) to proceed. An effort to do the same at City Council failed by a razor thin margin (4 to 5) before final passage without registering any “no” votes by Rochester City Council members. The City Council vote was the final determining factor. Read the moratorium legislation below on this page. **UMNA encourages all supporters of the moratorium to send a note of thanks to all members of Rochester City Council. Contact info <**[**HERE**](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/city-council)**>**
## UPDATE: May 6, 2026 In a dramatic turn of events all nine members of the Rochester City Council signed a joint letter calling for a brief moratorium on any new variances for outdoor advertisements - including digital billboards - for up to one year while that body reviews the proposed new zoning code. If the moratorium is approved at the next City Council meeting, it will go into effect immediately and, at least temporarily, prevent the Zoning Board of Appeals from voting on the variance application that seeks special permissions to build digital billboards on Monroe Avenue at Canterbury Road. The moratorium must proceed through several steps before it can be addressed by City Council on May 19th. Rochester City Council committees must review the matter. The Rochester City Planning Commission (CPC) must also weigh in with a vote to "recommend" or “not recommend” at their next meeting on May 18th. (The CPC vote is only advisory.) Rochester City Council will then vote “up or down” on the matter after public deliberation during a regularly scheduled meeting on the 19th. {% embed url="" %} The convergence of significant public opposition to the variance application asking permission to construct new, otherwise impermissible, digital billboards at the corner of Monroe Avenue at Canterbury Road combined with the pending adoption of the city’s proposed new zoning code caused members of Council to seek time for reflection on the impacts of these signs before risking another variance. In their letter Rochester City Council members are… “...concerned about the content and standards under the current Zoning Code as it relates to advertising signs and recent actions by the Zoning Board of Appeals granting variances of the Code, despite significant community concern and opposition.” In the face of more than 150 letters and numerous speakers in opposition to the variance, the Zoning Board of Appeals decided to hold the Monroe Ave/Canterbury Rd application at its meeting in March. The CPC sent the owner a letter requiring them to meet with neighborhood groups. The meeting took place on April 9th. UMNA and numerous other groups were present. The owner described a series of modifications to their application that reduced both the height as the size of the signs at that meeting. In addition, a third, non-digital, sign was removed from the application. Subsequent to the meeting Lamar Advertising offered to remove more than ten non-digital signs in other areas of the city in exchange for a variance at Monroe and Canterbury. Neighborhood leaders conferred after the meeting to discuss the proposed revisions and concluded the modifications and the perceived dangers to drivers would still not bring the billboards into compliance with zoning code. All the groups present support, as they had before the meeting. #### Moratorium language as proposed by Rochester City Council {% embed url="" %} Residents are strongly encouraged to send comments directly to members of Rochester City Council. Contact information for all members of City Council may be found <[HERE](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/city-council)>.
*** ## UPDATE: April 9, 2026 *(This revision is incomplete and very much a work in progress. Please check back after April 12, 2026 for the more complete version.)* As requested by the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), the applicant for this digital billboard variance (aka, the building developer in cooperation with Lamar Advertising) met with representatives from the seven neighborhood groups in proximity to 25 Canterbury Road along with other interested community groups. No one from Lamar Advertising was present in the room for the discussion. The applicant described potential revisions to the display size of each of the two proposed digital faces (from 674 sqft to 378 sqft) and to the monopole height (from 60' to 52') that would hold the digital display signs up. There were stark differences of opinion the over cummulative impacts from light pollution and human safety from digital signs rapidly accumulating along our busiest roadways. Studies one direction are easily matched by studies with opposite conclusions. Community representatives at the meeting noted even the potential new dimensions remain well above what is permitted at that location. In a response demonstrating the applicant's close collaborative relationship with Lamar Advertising, the applicant suggested potential removal of Lamar signs in other areas of the city if neighbors would support his digital billboards at 25 Canterbury Road. Despite community group insistence that digital billboards were not welcomed at 25 Canterbury Road as demonstrated by the hundreds of letters in opposition to the application sent into the ZBA, the applicant repeatedly refused to withdraw the application. Assurances were given that the lease agreement between Lamar and the developer would not include third-party "piggybacking", a colloquialism describing certain commercial add-ons sometimes seen on billboards. A minor consideration by comparison to the scale of this proposal, according to neighborhood reps in later discussions. *** ## UPDATE: FEBRUARY 26, 2026 On February 25th the Zoning Board of Appeals heard oral presentations on a proposed massive new three sided “tri-clops” billboard planned for the corner of Monroe Avenue and Canterbury Road that does not comply with current zoning code. In the weeks leading up to the ZBA hearing nearby residents and community groups, including UMNA, submitted comments. More than 100 of the submissions expressed their opposition to the variance. [Click here to read the full staff report and the first batch of comments from residents](https://maps.cityofrochester.gov/server/rest/services/NBD/Zoning_Boards_and_Commissions/MapServer/1/76011/attachments/218801). There were so many letters the ZBA staff was forced to post a second link. [Click here to read the second batch of comments from residents on this matter](https://maps.cityofrochester.gov/server/rest/services/NBD/Zoning_Boards_and_Commissions/MapServer/1/76011/attachments/220001).
The decision to hold the application was accompanied by this letter {% embed url="" %} It is unclear what will happen next. However, until the ZBA decides construction on the billboards may not be started. Interested community groups, including representatives from UMNA, are meeting next week to discuss the situation and determine next steps. **You can read UMNA’s letter in opposition to the variance below:** {% embed url="" %} *** ### Residents are STRONGLY advised to learn more about this application and submit comments immediately. The ZBA Public Hearing for this variance will take place on Thursday, February 25, 2026 starting at 6:00 pm at City Hall, City Council Chambers 30 Church St. Room 302-A. Instructions on how to submit comments to the ZBA are <[HERE](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/how-comment-current-zba-case)>. Please copy in UMNA at . *** #### Current

photos taken from google map

## 25 Canterbury Road <[Map Link](https://maps.app.goo.gl/hjVNL7xcTodcNoiW7)> **Case #3 - File Numbers: V-062-25-26** A summary of variance application provided by the City of Rochester: “To construct a 60ft tall monopole within the parking lot of an office-building, which includes a double-sided, 672sf, digital advertising sign facing east and west bound traffic on I-490, and a 210sf, static community board facing north, where the signs do not meet certain requirements applying to all districts." ***Highlights of the issues under review (layperson's description)*** * *A variance is sought by the applicant because a combination of three signs are not permitted at this location;* * *A variance is sought by the applicant because the proposed new monopole; the proposed two new illuminated digital billboard sign faces; and the propose new conventional billboard would all be substantially higher than the current code allows.* * *A variance is sought because the current zoning code allows two sign faces but only if the signs are "back-to-back". The proposed new monopole would hold two new illuminated digital billboard sign faces that are not back-to-back.* * *A variance is sought because each of the proposed two illuminated digital billboard sign faces and the conventional sign are substantially larger than allowed under the current code.* * *A variance is sought because two of the proposed new illuminated digital billboard sign faces would change/cycle/flash messages every few seconds. The current code allows only one static (unchanging) message on a billboard.* * *A variance is sought because the proposed two new digital billboard sign faces would be illuminated all day and all night every day of the year **forever*** ***
{% file src="/files/qXegEI5Uvr0XIEEnCgLH" %} ### Residents are STRONGLY advised to learn more about this application and submit comments immediately. The ZBA Public Hearing for this variance will take place on Thursday, February 25, 2026 starting at 6:00 pm at City Hall, City Council Chambers 30 Church St. Room 302-A. Instructions on how to submit comments to the ZBA are <[HERE](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/how-comment-current-zba-case)>. Please copy in UMNA at .
# COMPLETED: 53 Avondale Park | Application An application to change the legal use of of this property is pending. A public hearing is scheduled for Monday, April 20th. You are encouraged to learn more and comment. Details below. ## Background The current owner of 53 Avondale Park recently applied to legalize a formerly unpermitted finished attic apartment he “inherited” when the property was purchased last summer. A *prior* owner had finished the apartment & rented it out without prior approval by the City. A city inspector shut the unit down when it was discovered. The current owner purchased the property knowing it was not legal. The unit is no longer being rented. The current legal use of the property is as a three family residence. If permission is granted for an attic apartment, the property would then permanently become a legal four family residential building. The owner reached out by email to notify UMNA of his intent to apply for permission to change the legal use. The opportunity to talk about the application early in the process is warmly welcomed by UMNA. **Lydia Crim**, UMNA Community Connector for the Avondale Park area and **Rome Celli**, a nearby neighbor on Werner Park, interviewed the owner by phone on March 25, 2026. ### UPDATE: April 23, 2026 The attic of 53 Avondale Park will not be converted to a rental apartment and the property will not be converted to a four unit building. 53 Avondale Park will remain a legal three family property. On Monday, April 20th the City Planning Commission (CPC) held a public hearing on the application to waive certain code requirements that would allow a change in the use of 53 Avondale Park from a three family to a four family by adding an attic apartment. The application had been under review by city staff and the all-volunteer members of the CPC for several weeks after the owner submitted the application. CPC deliberations after the hearing resulted in a majority vote to deny the application. To his credit, the owner followed all the required procedures related to the application process. In addition, the owner proactively reached out to the [Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association](https://www.uppermonroe.com/) to review the situation. As many neighbors know, property owners do not always comply with city code in cases like this one. In fact, the prior owner of 53 Avondale had finished the attic without city permission a number of years ago only to be shut down by a city inspector after-the-fact. The current owner purchased the property in 2025 knowing an attic apartment was not allowed. Since then he has not attempted to rent out or otherwise improve the attic. UMNA expressed appreciation to the owner for responsible behavior. UMNA representative, Lydia Crim, a Community Connector in the area of Avondale Park and nearby neighbor, Rome Celli, from Werner Park spoke with the owner at length. After doing so UMNA followed its normal operating procedure to encourage residents near the property and around Upper Monroe to learn more and comment. Lydia, Rome & Avondale resident, Paul Kizior (also Secretary of UMNA) hand delivered notices to every door on Belmont, Avondale, Hinsdale and Rosedale. In addition, the twelve members of UMNA’s Leadership Team were also encouraged to offer their comments. UMNA collected comments using an online survey tool. Comments on the matter skewed overwhelmingly in opposition to the application due mostly to parking related concerns and the already high percentage of rental units on Avondale. After reviewing comments and considering the broader issues facing our community, UMNA president, Peter House, delivered UMNA’s comments against the waivers in person at the hearing. Paul Allen, an Avondale neighbor, also presented comments in opposition to the waivers at the hearing. *** #### **The owner's request: To permit the conversion of a third floor attic space into one, 1-bedroom apartment, thereby creating a four-family dwelling, in a legally existing three-family dwelling, an action requiring City Planning Commission approval.** #### YOU ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE OFFICIAL STAFF REPORT ASSOCIATED WITH THIS APPLICATION {% file src="/files/9SdUPatQpkfn1UVIzuoI" %} [**CLICK HERE TO SEND COMMENTS TO THE UPPER MONROE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCATION**](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdJUGVD3C-sX459SgJRMTWQLJx2SQpdLCBTs3qr9SvDKPMljw/viewform?usp=header) *** *The following is a layperson's description of the situation as described to UMNA reps by the owner of the property.* * City permission is required because the overall size of the lot is too small for a four family under the current code. This is a very common situation for multi-family homes in UM and across the City of Rochester. Most existing multi-family homes are not required to meet the current code standard. (They are “grandfathered in”.) Adding an additional living unit triggers the rule and, by implication, requires special permission; * In addition, the proposed apartment is smaller than what is allowed under code for a one bedroom apartment. This is due to the sloped angle/shape of the roofline that defines the space and the existing knee walls that are do not allow for a five foot ceiling height.

Photo above dates from 2025 (found online) with text and arrows added by UMNA

Layout provided by owner. Does not show ceiling slope or knee walls

*** {% file src="/files/XZgDw3pKDMLvShaPMVfc" %} Cick on this link to open the letter and read the owner's description of his proposed project. {% endfile %} *** UMNA expects the unit will be required to meet applicable NYS fire code; likely involving installation of a sprinkler system and a fire safety egress (commonly a fire escape) as well as smoke and CO detection devices The owner has indicated no additional onsite parking spaces would be required by the city even though a new living unit would be added. The owner indicated he did not plan on adding onsite parking spaces. Tenants and their guests who are unable to fit in the current onsite parking will have to park on the street. Since the attic had been improved by the prior owner the current owner indicated there would only be minor construction to make the apartment habitable from a code compliance standpoint. *** **The City Planning Commission (CPC) will hear public comments and rule on his application on Monday, April 20, 2026. Details below.** **You are encouraged to submit your opinion to UMNA and to submit your comments directly to the City of Rochester. Details below.** [**CLICK HERE TO SEND COMMENTS TO THE UPPER MONROE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCATION**](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdJUGVD3C-sX459SgJRMTWQLJx2SQpdLCBTs3qr9SvDKPMljw/viewform?usp=header) *** ## Property: 53 Avondale Park Exterior photos below were taken in 2025 when the property was offered for sale. Interior photos were provided by the owner and, presumably represent the current condition and configuration.
*** [**CLICK HERE TO SEND COMMENTS TO THE UPPER MONROE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCATION**](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdJUGVD3C-sX459SgJRMTWQLJx2SQpdLCBTs3qr9SvDKPMljw/viewform?usp=header) Contact if you have questions about this matter. *** ### [City Planning Commission (CPC)](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/city-planning-commission) - Public Hearing Information
## How to comment on a current CPC case 1. Submit written comments by email, mail, or deliver them to City Hall. * **Email:** [planningcommission@cityofrochester.gov](https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm\&fs=1\&tf=1\&to=planningcommission@cityofrochester.gov) * **Mail:** Zoning Office c/o Planning Commission, 30 Church St. Rm. 125B, Rochester, NY 14614 * **Written comment submission deadline:** close-of-business, the business day before the hearing by **4:00 P.M.** * Written comments must include the project address and the commentor's, first name, last name, address, and contact information. 2. Speak at the public hearing. * **Location:** City Hall, City Council Chamber, 30 Church St. Rm. 302-A, Rochester, NY 14614. * Comments may not exceed 3 minutes in length or 10 minutes for neighborhood associations. *** Contact if you have questions about this matter.
# COMPLETED: 224 Field Street | Variance Application A zoning variance application has been submitted on this property. The public hearing is October 23, 2025. Details are described on this page. ### FINAL UPDATE OCTOBER 23, 2025 **The ZBA’s ruling:** “*Approved.*” On October 23rd the ZBA approved paving over a 15 square foot grassy area (triangular in shape) thereby allowing the expansion of an existing driveway to accommodate a new driveway that will be two cars wide. *** #### 224 Field Street is the legal address. **The house is also known as 260 Pinnacle Road. The driveway is located off of the Pinnacle Road side of the property.** ## Background *The following is a layperson's description of the situation as determined by a review of information provided online by the City of Rochester and as described by the owner during a site visit on September 15, 2025.* **The requested variance: To replace and expand an existing driveway in the rear yard of a two-family dwelling, located on a corner lot, not meeting certain City-wide design guidelines and standards.** An UMNA representative met with the owner on September 15, 2025 to review the site and discuss the owner's driveway expansion plans. No work has begun. The owner is waiting to begin work until the Zoning Board of Appeals rules on their application. The owner is not asking to expand the building; only the driveway as follows... * The owner would remove the existing driveway and the adjacent existing concrete walkway and enough grassy area to meet minimum width required for a driveway two cars wide. * In order to minimize lot coverage after the expansion the current single lane driveway curb cut on Pinnacle Road would remain. The driveway would widen gradually after the sidewalk. * The owner would extend the driveway at the back so that there is a finished paved area up to and beneath the entry door (see in the 6th photo below). *\* "Coverage" is the total amount of the lot that is covered including the house, driveway, walkways, garage/shed, etc. What's left after the coverage is either greenspace or other permeable surfaces.* *** #### The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association's submission on this application {% embed url="" %} {% file src="/files/19c066kUnUnZzft990hq" %} *** ## Property: 224 Field Street/260 Pinnacle Road. (The driveway comes off of Pinnacle Road.)

Arial view of current driveway configuration (courtesy of google.com/maps.com)

Arial view of APPROXIMATE design of proposed new driveway configuration (overlayed on google.com/maps.com)

Current driveway configuration as of September 15, 2025

Current driveway configuration as of September 15, 2025

Current driveway configuration as of September 15, 2025

Current driveway configuration as of September 15, 2025

#### Interested parties are strongly encouraged to read the official ZBA staff report. The staff report contains the application, maps, staff commentary and any comments submitted to the ZBA from others. {% file src="/files/O1m09tIFLPc12fcck2aD" %} Contact if you have questions about this matter. *** ## [Zoning Board Of Appeals](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/zoning-board-appeals-zba) - Public Hearing Information * LOCATION: City Hall, City Council Chambers, 30 Church St. Rm. 302-A, Rochester, NY 14614 * DATE/TIME: Thursday, October 23, 2025 at 6:00 PM * PLACE ON THE ZBA AGENDA: #6 ([CLICK FOR FULL AGENDA](https://maps.cityofrochester.gov/server/rest/services/NBD/Zoning_Boards_and_Commissions/MapServer/1/67212/attachments/175605))
### Members of the public are encouraged to comment directly on this application. *Comments may be submitted at any time before the hearing. If you email comments, please copy in .* 1. Submit a written comment by email, mail, or deliver it to City Hall. * Email: [zoningboard@cityofrochester.gov ](https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm\&fs=1\&tf=1\&to=zoningboard@cityofrochester.gov%C2%A0) * US Mail: Zoning Office c/o Zoning Board, 30 Church St. Rm. 125B, Rochester, NY 14614 * Written comment submission deadline: close-of-business, the business day before the hearing by 5:00 P.M. * **Written comments must include the project address and the commentor's first name, last name, address, and contact information.** 2. Speak at the public hearing. * Location: City Hall, City Council Chamber, 30 Church St. Rm. 302-A, Rochester, NY 14614 * Comments may not exceed 3 minutes in length or 10 minutes for neighborhood associations. *** #### [**CLICK HERE TO EXPRESS YOUR OPINION ON THIS MATTER TO THE UPPER MONROE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION**](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd7CCjxy263OAAgvzOxLby7Vd_NhIHfoOgGPMS9oGFoSQagpg/viewform?usp=header) *** Contact if you have questions about this matter.
# COMPLETED: 307 Rosedale Street | Variance Application A zoning variance application has been submitted on this property. The public hearing is July 24, 2025 at 6:00 pm in Rochester City Hall. The basic details and various links are provided on this page. ## FINAL UPDATE JULY 25, 2025 **The ZBA’s ruling:** “*Approved with lesser relief. The applicant shall provide a pavement plan with a maximum of 66% lot coverage to be approved by the Manager of Zoning.*” The ZBA had to reconcile countervailing interests: maximum “coverage” (The amount of space covered by buildings and pavement on the parcel as a percentage of the lot size.) vs the code-required number of off-street parking spaces at that address (four). Due to the lot size at 307 Rosedale Street in order to get the necessary number of standard-sized parking spaces the property will require more coverage than the 50% the zoning code calls for at this location. To make matters more complicated, the lot space necessary for four parking spaces does NOT allow enough additional room for vehicles to maneuver in and out. The city will allow both "permeable" materials AND natural landscape/plantings to balance the need for off street parking with the requirement for reducing the coverage. If you have questions about this variance or the results, please write to ## UPDATE JULY 23, 2025 UMNA submitted the following commentary in opposition to this variance application. Please scroll down on the document to read the entire submission. {% embed url="" %} Contact if you have questions about this matter. ## Property: 307 Rosedale Street ## Background *The following is a layperson's description of the situation as determined by a review of information provided online by the City of Rochester and as described by the owner during a site visit on July 7, 2025.* * **SUMMARY:** In 2024 the driveway and rear parking area were repaved without a permit from the City. As a result, the property does not meet minimum standards for greenspace. * The property owner has requested a variance to waive greenspace requirements and allow the repaved driveway and parking areas to remain in their current configuration. * **MORE DETAILS:** In 2024 the owner applied to renew the Certificate of Occupancy for this four unit residential property (as required by City code/regulation). Along with other miscellaneous items the city inspector cited the driveway/back parking lot areas as needing attention. Instead of repairing the broken areas of the existing driveway/back parking lot (and retaining the small greenspaces that were present at the time) the owner chose to replace the existing driveway and back parking lot but, as noted above, failed to obtain the necessary permit. Had the owner applied for a permit they would have known that complete replacement of the existing driveway and back parking lot triggered the restoration of the minimum greenspace requirements for this property. * **NOTES:** The new driveway was installed with a negative slope to the rear where a drywell was installed to help mitigate stormwater runoff. Existing concrete sidewalks were replaced with new concrete sidewalks at the same time as the paving work was done. The driveway and rear parking areas of 307 Rosedale were re-surfaced by the same contractor and at the same time as 297 Rosedale Street. ### Interested parties are strongly encouraged to read the official ZBA staff report {% file src="/files/bFTBsvM8MTxGdw40iakl" %} Contact if you have questions about this matter. ## "Before" Pictures (circa 2023-2024) The photos below were taken from google.com/maps.com

Photo circa 2023-2024 as seen on Google Map

Photo circa 2023-2024 as seen on Google Map

Photo circa 2023-2024 as seen on Google Map - Tree removed in 2024 before the city inspection and before consideration of the driveway.

Photo circa 2021 using Google Streetview - Tree removed in 2024 before the city inspection and before consideration of the driveway.

## "After" Pictures This photos below were taken by an UMNA representative on two separate occasions: May 13, 2025 and July 2, 2025 during a site visit of 307 Rosedale and with the permission of the owner.

Photo taken of 307 Rosedale from the backyard of 297 Rosedale on May 13, 2025

Photo taken of 307 Rosedale on July 7, 2025

Photo taken of 307 Rosedale on July 7, 2025

The stones conceal a drywell that is designed to capture storm water run-off from the driveway.

*** ## [Zoning Board Of Appeals](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/zoning-board-appeals-zba) - Public Hearing Information * LOCATION: City Hall, City Council Chambers, 30 Church St. Rm. 302-A, Rochester, NY 14614 * DATE/TIME: Thursday, July 24, 2025 at 6:00 PM * PLACE ON THE ZBA AGENDA: #4 ([CLICK FOR FULL AGENDA](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/sites/default/files/2025-07/07.2025%20ZBA%20agenda.pdf))
### Members of the public are encouraged to comment directly on this application. *Comments may be submitted at any time before the hearing. If you email comments, please copy in .* 1. Submit a written comment by email, mail, or deliver it to City Hall. * Email: [zoningboard@cityofrochester.gov ](https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm\&fs=1\&tf=1\&to=zoningboard@cityofrochester.gov%C2%A0) * US Mail: Zoning Office c/o Zoning Board, 30 Church St. Rm. 125B, Rochester, NY 14614 * Written comment submission deadline: close-of-business, the business day before the hearing by 5:00 P.M. * **Written comments must include the project address and the commentor's first name, last name, address, and contact information.** 2. Speak at the public hearing. * Location: City Hall, City Council Chamber, 30 Church St. Rm. 302-A, Rochester, NY 14614 * Comments may not exceed 3 minutes in length or 10 minutes for neighborhood associations. Contact if you have questions about this matter.
# COMPLETED: 297 Rosedale Street | Variance Application A zoning variance application has been submitted on this property. The public hearing is May 22, 2025. Details are described on this page. ## FINAL UPDATED MAY 24, 2025 **The ZBA’s ruling: “*****Denied*****.”** As a result of the ZBA ruling, the owner must restore the configuration found before the paving project was undertaken but may use permeable materials to help mitigate in areas that may be necessary for vehicle maneuverability in and out of the parking area. If you have questions about this variance or the results, please write to ## UPDATE MAY 22, 2025 UMNA submitted the following commentary in opposition to this variance application. Please scroll down on the document to read the entire submission. {% embed url="" %} ## [CLICK HERE TO EXPRESS YOUR OPINION ON THIS MATTER TO THE UPPER MONROE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwg06bfrVobVD8EaoBoyiFW0EpEyekvV52cKJc5RXtL2X-Gg/viewform?usp=sharing\&ouid=110519966697179432844) Contact if you have questions about this matter. ## Property: 297 Rosedale Street
*The photo on the left was taken by an UMNA rep on May 13th. The photo on the right is the most recent front image on Google Maps.* ## Background *The following is a layperson's description of the situation as determined by a review of information provided online by the City of Rochester and as described by the owner during a site visit on May 13, 2025.* * In 2024 the driveway and rear parking area were repaved without a permit from the City. When the new blacktop was installed nearly all of the existing greenspace along the driveway (along the white vinyl fence) and in the back parking area was removed. The front yard was unaffected by the repaving. As a result, the property no longer meets minimum standards for greenspace. * The City of Rochester cited the property for lack of a permit and code violations related to the minimum required greenspace. * The property owner has requested a variance to allow the repaved driveway and parking areas to remain in their current configuration. * Possible actions on the variance by the ZBA would approve/disapprove/approve with conditions and/or levy a $1,000 fine. ### Interested parties are strongly encouraged to read the official ZBA staff report {% file src="/files/91dUaDwZPBJDCRtIfRvI" %} Contact if you have questions about this matter. ## "Before" Pictures (circa 2021) The photos below were taken from google.com/maps.com The "greenspace" that was removed when the property was repaved has been informally outlined on these photos by UMNA reps in **BLUE**.
## "After" Pictures These photos were taken by an UMNA representative with permission of the owner during a site visit on May 13, 2025.
## Neighboring property - 307 Rosedale Street The driveway and rear parking areas of 307 Rosedale were re-surfaced by the same contractor and at the same time as 297 Rosedale Street. UMNA is not aware of any code violations associated with the resurfacing of 307 Rosedale Street. (Photo taken May 13, 2025.)
*** ## [Zoning Board Of Appeals](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/zoning-board-appeals-zba) - Public Hearing Information * LOCATION: City Hall, City Council Chambers, 30 Church St. Rm. 302-A, Rochester, NY 14614 * DATE/TIME: Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 6:00 PM * PLACE ON THE ZBA AGENDA: #6 ([CLICK FOR FULL AGENDA](https://maps.cityofrochester.gov/server/rest/services/NBD/Zoning_Boards_and_Commissions/MapServer/1/67212/attachments/175605))
{% file src="/files/91dUaDwZPBJDCRtIfRvI" %} ### Members of the public are encouraged to comment directly on this application. *Comments may be submitted at any time before the hearing. If you email comments, please copy in .* 1. Submit a written comment by email, mail, or deliver it to City Hall. * Email: [zoningboard@cityofrochester.gov ](https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm\&fs=1\&tf=1\&to=zoningboard@cityofrochester.gov%C2%A0) * US Mail: Zoning Office c/o Zoning Board, 30 Church St. Rm. 125B, Rochester, NY 14614 * Written comment submission deadline: close-of-business, the business day before the hearing by 5:00 P.M. * **Written comments must include the project address and the commentor's first name, last name, address, and contact information.** 2. Speak at the public hearing. * Location: City Hall, City Council Chamber, 30 Church St. Rm. 302-A, Rochester, NY 14614 * Comments may not exceed 3 minutes in length or 10 minutes for neighborhood associations. Contact if you have questions about this matter.
# COMPLETED | Digital billboards proposed near Upper Monroe & Cobbs Hill on Rt 490 This page provides information about three digital billboards that are under review for variances by the City of Rochester's Zoning Board of Appeals.
The ZBA map of all cases for the entire City of Rochester is <[HERE](https://maps.cityofrochester.gov/portal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=ba2fed2440314b7d921c282b04ee6d4b\&forceDesktop)>. The map includes links to detailed information that may be downloaded. Much of the information regarding the three variance hearings for the three new illuminated digital billboard signs is also available below. ## UPDATE: FEBRUARY 26, 2025 Variance applications for all three new illuminated digital billboards were withdrawn by the applicant just days before the Rochester Zoning Board of Appeals was scheduled to decide their fate. In the weeks leading up to the ZBA hearing residents from all over our area and beyond sent in numerous comments. All but very few of the comments were in opposition to the variances. It’s unclear if the applicants will try again. If so, UMNA will notify residents. You can read UMNA’s letter in opposition to the variances at the bottom of this page. *** ## Background UMNA recently became aware of several (variance) applications pending before the City of Rochester [Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA)](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/zoning-board-appeals-zba) that, if approved, would allow construction of three new illuminated digital billboard signs along Rt. 490 near the Upper Monroe & Cobbs Hill Park areas. These billboards would be illuminated day and night all year-round. **The ZBA Public Hearing for all three of these variances will take place on Thursday, February 27, 2025 starting at 6:00 pm at City Hall, City Council Chambers 30 Church St. Room 302-A** {% file src="/files/9NhbUvZdBDv26rY64eRc" %} ### Residents are strongly encouraged to learn more and submit comments ASAP. Instructions on how to submit comments to the ZBA are <[HERE](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/how-comment-current-zba-case)>. Please copy in UMNA at . Accumulated observations & comments from nearby residents are listed at the bottom of this page. *** ## [25 Canterbury Road](https://maps.app.goo.gl/hjVNL7xcTodcNoiW7) **Case #10 - File Numbers: V-047-24-25** A proposed new monopole would be placed in an existing parking lot at 25 Canterbury Road. The proposed TWO SIDED sign would be illuminated 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. **From the variance application:** *“To construct a 60’ tall stealth monopole with a 14’ x 48’ back to back digital billboard, not meeting certain requirements applying to all districts.”* ***Highlights of the issues under review:*** * *A variance is sought by the applicant because the proposed new monopole and the proposed two new illuminated digital billboard sign faces would be substantially higher than the current code allows.* * *The current code allows two sign faces but only if the signs are "back-to-back". The proposed new monopole would hold two new illuminated digital billboard sign faces that are not back-to-back.* * *Each of the proposed two illuminated digital billboard sign faces is substantially larger than allowed under the current code.* * *The current code allows only one static (unchanging) message on a billboard. The proposed two new illuminated digital billboard sign faces would change/cycle/flash messages every few seconds.* * *The application would allow the proposed two new digital billboard sign faces to be illuminated all day and all night every day of the year **forever**.* {% file src="/files/TWHxe7VHJWLEVKRbAdVg" %}
*Digital renderings were provided to the City of Rochester by the applicant.* *** ## [161 Norris Drive](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Rzw3HY2QVfL1zqaB7) **Case #11 - File Numbers: V-048-24-25** The pole would be placed in an existing parking lot at 161 Norris Drive. This sign would be illuminated 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. From the variance application: *“To remove a rooftop billboard and construct a new 65’ tall stealth monopole with a 14’ x 48’ back to back digital billboard, not meeting certain requirements applying to all districts.”* ***Highlights of the issues under review:*** * *A variance is sought by the applicant because the proposed new monopole and the proposed two new illuminated digital billboard sign faces would be substantially higher than the current code allows.* * *Each of the proposed two illuminated digital billboard sign faces is substantially larger than allowed under the current code.* * *The current code allows only one static (unchanging) message on a billboard. The proposed two new illuminated digital billboard sign faces would change/cycleflash messages every few seconds.* * *The application would allow the proposed two new digital billboard sign faces to be illuminated all day and all night every day of the year **forever**.* {% file src="/files/Ic13q3FqJHtM8x5GcGlc" %}
*Digital renderings were provided to the City of Rochester by the applicant.* *** ## [1881 East Avenue](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Rzw3HY2QVfL1zqaB7) **Case #9 - File Numbers: V-046-24-25** An existing non-digital billboard will be replaced with a digital billboard of the same size on top of an existing stealth monopole. From the variance application: *“To change an existing, 378sf advertising sign face from a static advertising sign to a 378sf digital advertising sign, exceeding certain requirements applying to all districts.”* * *The current code allows only one static message on a billboard. The proposed new illuminated digital billboard sign face at this location would change/cycle messages every few seconds.* * *The application would allow the proposed two new digital billboard sign faces to be illuminated all day and all night every day of the year **forever**.* {% file src="/files/v6P7Kv6k9IWYTzlno8nZ" %}
*** UMNA offered a poll to residents when this information first became available. The results are below.
**Some specific concerns that have been expressed to UMNA by residents:** * Light intrusion associated with the placement near densely populated residential neighborhoods * Potential negative impacts on property values near homes and neighborhoods * The transformation of residential areas into "commercial advertising zones" * Aesthetic impacts relative to nearby neighborhoods noted for their late 19th century and early 20th century character including some buildings & districts recognized as historically significant. * Driver distraction associated digital signs and particularly with changing/cycling of sign messages every few seconds * The cumulative impacts of artificial light during nighttime hours on human health and wellbeing * The way artificial light obscures night skies * The prioritization of commercial interests over residential interests * The application does not align with goals set out in the City of Rochester's 2034 plan * The applicant made no effort at outreach to area residents prior to submission * Information relevant to the application is not up-to-date *** ### The following comments have been sent to the Zoning Board of Appeals on behalf of the Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association Please place your cursor on the document below to scroll down and read all four pages. {% embed url="" %} ***
# Road Related Construction or Redesign Projects You will find links to any road construction projects in either underway or planned in Upper Monroe below. # PROJECT: 2025 Preventative Maintenance Project (Culver/University) The City of Rochester will undertake a number of improvements and modifications to Culver Road and and Monroe Avenue near Werner Park in 2025. The Upper Monroe section is part of a larger project. ## Project Description #### The City of Rochester's webpage for this project is <[**HERE**]()> This is a federally funded project. The project will include, but is not limited to milling and resurfacing of the pavement, spot curb and sidewalk replacement, installation or upgrade of sidewalk curb ramps, replacement of traffic pavement markings, and adjustment and repair of manholes, catch basins, and water valve castings. The project also includes recommendations for lane reductions and parking regulation changes on Culver Road south of Norris Drive, bicycle accommodations, curb bump-outs at select locations, and other safety improvements throughout the project corridors. A pedestrian refuge island is proposed for the midblock crosswalk on Monroe Avenue at Werner Park. The City of Rochester held a public information meeting at the Lodge at Lake Riley on Tuesday, April 16th
## Links to more information [April 16, 2024 Public Meeting Handout](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=21474854507) [April 16, 2024 Public Meeting Presentation](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=21474854508) [April 16, 2024 Public Meeting Street Overview](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=21474854520) [April 16, 2024 Public Meeting Street Cross Sections](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/WorkArea/DownloadAsset.aspx?id=21474854519) *** [June, 2024 Final Design Report](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/sites/default/files/2024-10/PIN%204CR0.21%20COR%202025%20PM%20Project%20Final%20Design%20Report_psr_fdr.pdf) *** [October 1, 2024 Public Meeting Announcement](https://1147667485-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-M2yD9yD_-MAsUwf6Slw%2Fuploads%2FW3igFmRMKE2s5RINiStv%2F2025%20PM%20Meeting%202%20-%20IDC%20and%20PMN%20Signed%20\(002\).pdf?alt=media\&token=65e85e7b-72e3-4963-9c4b-9c98e9d660fe) [October 1, 2024 Public Meeting Handout](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/sites/default/files/2024-10/COR%202025%20PM%20PIM%20No.%202%20Handout_10.01.2024.pdf) [October 1, 2024 Public Meeting Street Cross Section](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/sites/default/files/2024-10/2024-10-01_COR%202025%20Preventive%20Maintenance%20-%20PIM2%20Scroll%20Renderings%20REV%203.1.pdf) {% embed url="" %} #### See below for some additional notes gleaned from the City's public meeting on April 16th (provided by [UMNA vice president, Tim Guyot](mailto:vp@uppermonroe.org)). **General info** * Initial comments from the meeting submitted by Tuesday April 23rd can be included in the meeting minutes with responses * Some detailed or specific comments fit better after the preliminary plans, but comments are encouraged now as changes are easier before the preliminary plan. * Preliminary Plan expected June, 2024 should list all specific improvements or repairs: fix sidewalk at "x" location(s), adjust curbs at "y" location(s), etc. **Regarding lane reduction on Culver between Monroe Avenue and Rt. 490** * While curb bump-outs are allowed under a "preventative maintenance" project like this one, altering the current width of the roadway is not feasible at this time. Altering the current width of the roadway would require a "reconstruction" project which is more costly and time consuming. * The City is considering multiple options to add bike lanes * South-bound bike lane could be protected by moving parking away from the curb, but doing so may cause issues with driveways * Plans include either retaining the southbound turning lanes, or adjusting light-cycles, so there will be minimal impact to traffic * Bike lanes disappear at the 490 bridge and the intersections immediately North **Regarding a pedestrian refuge "island" on Monroe near Werner Park** * The island will have a raised curb, but the actual pedestrian path will be at-grade for better accessibility * There is no concern about traffic backing up behind the bus because it will be transient **Other miscellaneous items** * Citizens present at the meeting expressed an interest in "pedestrian scrambles" or intersections with all traffic stopped so pedestrians could cross diagonally. *There is no intent to implement this idea.* * There was also interest in the options that included continuous bike lanes, but right now they will not be included in key areas because of vehicle capacity issues. #### The letter below was submitted to the City of Rochester on April 30, 2024 as a follow-up to the public meeting held on April 16th. {% embed url="" %} ## Anticipated Project Timeline | Preliminary Design: | June 2024 | | ------------------- | ------------------- | | Final Design: | October 2024 | | Bidding and Award: | Winter 2024/5 | | Construction: | April-November 2025 | **Tim Guyot is the lead UMNA rep for this project.** If you would like to chat with someone from UMNA about this project or if you would like to join the team monitoring the project, please reach out to Tim at .
# Pedestrian Island on Monroe Avenue This page offers information and concerns related to the newly installed pedestrian island installed by the City of Rochester on Monroe Avenue between Culver Road & Werner Park. ### **Background** In 2024 the City of Rochester announced plans to make a variety of road related improvements in the Monroe Avenue, Culver Road, University Avenue areas. Information & links related to the plan/project may be found on this page: [PROJECT: 2025 Preventative Maintenance Project (Culver/University)](/hot-topics/road-related-construction-or-redesign-projects/project-2025-preventative-maintenance-project-culver-university). Among other changes the city proposed the installation of an accessible pedestrian island to augment the existing crosswalk on Monroe Avenue between Culver Road and Werner Park. (Bus stops are located across from each other at that location.) The island was intended to calm traffic and protect pedestrians crossing at that location; in particular, a relatively high number of mobility impaired users (including those who are wheelchair-bound) in the vicinity. The City held a several public meetings to present the plan and receive input from the the community before the work was undertaken in the second half of 2025. In addition to the city's efforts, UMNA residents in our area were alerted to these plans on this site as well as in newsletters and UMNA social media. {% file src="/files/DrcAG73c1sIxC4EelrhE" %} {% file src="/files/MsmJtYjprSACLoMwMuU8" %} UMNA representatives participated at public meetings and submitted suggestions as well as comments. UMNA generally supported aspects of the project that were slated for the Upper Monroe Area, including the pedestrian island. UMNA updated residents along the way and as the projects began to unfold. {% file src="/files/hkQUHwG97X2lTqrhgB6D" %} {% file src="/files/pIQcBQXOXVamlDOL35Nk" %} While some elements of the larger project are still underway, work on the pedestrian island was completed late in 2025. ### A summary of the controversy Almost immediately as the pedestrian island was finishing up it became apparent drivers were having trouble seeing the new element of the roadscape and successfully navigating that section of Monroe Avenue. The city was very slow to add signage and other safety elements to the island compelling some neighbors to place privately owned orange cones on the island while the City completed the work. Even after signage and reflectors were added by the City drivers were still having significant trouble. More than once it appeared vehicles hit the island and damaged what little signage was present. When seasonal winds picked up and snow starting falling in November and early December the situation with vehicles worsened. Wind gusts knocked down temporary reflectors and other warnings to drivers. In addition, because incident snowfall was below the 4" threshold for sidewalk plowing, accumulated snow made the crosswalk unpassable for those with mobility issues. But, even if the crosswalk had been plowed, users were beginning to express fear of using the island due to concerns around unsafe conditions. City crews were very slow to correct the situation. All during this time neighbors and representatives of UMNA repeatedly wrote to the city and called 311 with slow or no results by city crews. ### Update January, 2026

Photos by Laurie Kash

When snow accumulated in the second half of December the situation went from very bad to terrible; at times bordering on near disaster. By January 1st there had been at least two additional crashes on the island taking out one "permanent" sign and causing significant damage to another. Even with the accumulating snow, sidewalk plows have been unable to adequately clear the way for pedestrians. As a result of these hazards and an inadequate response by the City, the value of this pedestrian island has been called into serious question. There is concern that the design and implementation may be fatally flawed. While UMNA has not yet called for removal of the island, some neighbors have begun to do just that and express their frustration in the process.
# PROJECT: 2025 Street Chip Sealing During the summer of 2025 certain street in the Upper Monroe neighborhood will be chip sealed by the City of Rochester.

This is NOT an interactive map. CLICK HERE TO GO TO A LIVE VERSION OF THE MAP

## Chip Seal The City of Rochester utilizes a low-cost surface treatment known as “Chip Seal” to extend the life of local streets. Chip sealing involves spreading a thin layer of clean, crushed stone over a thin layer of asphalt emulsion and setting the stone with a roller. This treatment slows the deterioration of the street surface by sealing out moisture, thereby protecting the asphalt pavement surface from freeze-thaw problems and base failures. The City will also perform spot milling and resurfacing of deteriorated pavement, crack sealing, and other basic pavement maintenance treatments prior to the Chip Seal treatment. Streets are chosen for the Chip Seal program based on a rotating basis of target areas, pavement conditions, and avoiding conflicts with other planned work. Streets can be Chip Sealed several times before they require a more intensive and costly treatment. On the day of the surface treatment on a given street, on-street parking will be prohibited and travel limited while crews are working. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you. Please plan ahead to find alternative parking areas. Other streets in your area may also be receiving chip seal treatment on the same day. After the treatment is applied, a 15 mile per hour speed limit will be in effect until City street sweepers can remove loose stone from the road surface. Please use caution and observe this speed limit. Please see the map above for Upper Monroe streets included in the 2025 Chip Seal Program, which is scheduled to begin in July. If you live on an impacted street, you will receive a notice on your door one day prior to the chip seal application. Please look for this notice.
# Supporting Cobbs Hill Park This page describes UMNA's efforts to support & enhance Cobbs Hill Park including establishing a preservation district covering the Park and developing a Cobbs Hill Park master plan. *This page is organized like a blog with the most recent information at the top. Please see the bottom of this page for background information.* ## UPDATE ON SEPTEMBER 24, 2025 On Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at a regularly scheduled meeting of Rochester City Council the Cobbs Hill Preservation District was legally established. The 21 second clip below documents this historic, unanimous vote. {% embed url="" %} The Cobbs Hill Park Preservation District covers ALL of Cobbs Hill Park including the grounds/landscape, the Lodge at Lake Riley, the Tay House Lodge and all of the old growth forest we know as "The Grove". **SOME ADDITIONAL NOTES**: the new preservation district does NOT cover the "retired" water tanks on the lot adjacent to Cobbs Hill Park. That parcel is owned and maintained by the Monroe County Water Authority. The new preservation district does not cover the building or property associated with School #15. The Cobbs Hill Park Preservation District will not interfere with active recreational uses like basketball, workout equipment, softball, picnics, parties, etc. so long per usual. *** ### Some words of gratitude Thanks to Rochester City Council members for tonight's vote establishing the Cobbs Hill Park Preservation District. Thanks to Mayor Evans in supporting city staff (particularly Tom Kicior from DES). Add to this list those citizen volunteers who populate the Rochester Preservation Board and the City Planning Commission and who played essential rolls in the development of the new Cobbs Hill Park Preservation District and who will with the input of residents, over time, help preserve the park through their contributions to those committees. Thanks to the group of volunteer citizens and the associated community groups for their work over the past 20 months or so in identifying the need, exploring the options, advocating the idea and collaborating with the City to make this happen: Tom Pastecki, president of the ABC Streets Neighborhood provided essential leadership. Others who participated most were Jeff Mills, vice president of the Nunda Boulevard Neighborhood Association; Steve Danyew, president of the Nunda Boulevard Neighborhood Association and chair of the Cobbs Hill Historic District Committee; JoAnn Beck, president along with Ed Ollinger and Andy Seager of the Olmstead Parks Alliance; Megan Klem from the Landmark Society of Western New York; Trish Corcoran & Kathy Castania, co-chairs of the Indigenous People's Committee; and Rome Celli represented the Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association. Many others were involved along the way including caring, concerned citizens like John Lembach, vice president of the Park Meigs Neighborhood Association, Lee Sengbusch from he Cobbs Hill Village apartment complex and Larry Champoux from the Highland Heights Neighborhood Association; all of whom brought diverse ideas to meetings and public hearings. Numerous other citizens sent in letters and spoke at public hearings. These people and their efforts are shining, public examples that parallel thousands of citizen volunteers contributing to better neighborhoods all over Rochester. ## UPDATE AS OF AUGUST 1, 2025 The City of Rochester has submitted their application to designate all of Cobbs Hill Park as a new Preservation District simultaneously to the Rochester Preservation Board and to the City Planning Commission. {% file src="/files/SZOiVH23E6bSgnm2qcyd" %} The coalition of advocates who have been working towards greater protections for Cobbs Hill Park (including UMNA) supports this effort. {% file src="/files/JbO5INN8gGO0nSzzs9Y1" %} Next steps: * **September 3, 2025:** Rochester Preservation Board - Hearing & decision * **September 15, 2025:** City Planning Commission - Hearing & decision * **September 24, 2025:** Rochester Council Public Hearing and Council Meeting (vote) ## UPDATE AS OF JULY 22, 2025 On Monday, July 21st the City Planning Commission agreed to hold the coalition's "Landmark" application while a new application to create a "Cobbs Hill Park Preservation District" is prepared and works it way through the approval process. The anticipated timeline is listed below. ## UPDATE AS OF JULY 17, 2025 A representative group of coalition members met with City staff in City Hall to coordinate next steps and deadlines on a new application to secure a Preservation District to cover all of Cobbs Hill Park. * **July 17, 2025:** Applicants for Landmark site status will request a "hold" of their application for Landmark status (in favor of a Preservation District application). The letter below was sent from the coalition to the City Planning Commission (CPC) requesting a hold of our application for Landmark status and notifying the CPC of the intent to submit a new application for a Preservation District under the auspices of the City administration's DES. {% file src="/files/7aFN1hpCU9FvlV2VeBDA" %} The letter below was sent to the City Planning Commission (CPC) from Kabutey Ocansey, Acting Commissioner of City of Rochester's Department of Environmental Services. supporting the request to hold the Landmark application and notifying the CPC of the City's intent to submit a new application for a Preservation District under the auspices of the City administration's DES. {% file src="/files/eEO4FfnxpXnUnZ4PWEl1" %} * **July 21, 2025:** Applicants will appear before the City Planning Commission at the scheduled public hearing to answer questions about the request to hold. * **July 24, 2025:** Draft of the new application to be completed provided to the group for review. Submission of letters of support to City staff from the applicants to be included with the application; * **July 30, 2025:** Submission of the application to the Rochester Preservation Board and simultaneous referral/submission to City Planning Commission; * **August 20, 2025:** City Planning Commission application due date – (Submitted on July 30.) * **September 3, 2025:** Rochester Preservation Board - Hearing & decision * **September 15, 2025:** City Planning Commission - Hearing & decision * **September 24, 2025:** Rochester Council Public Hearing and Council Meeting (vote) ## UPDATE AS OF JULY 15, 2025 At a meeting in City Hall late in the afternoon of July 10th representatives of the City administration proposed an alternative strategy for covering all of Cobbs Hill Park in a Preservation District (similar to the districts found all over Rochester) rather than as a Landmark Site. There are some technical advantages to this strategy that have become apparent through the application process; not least of which being that minor maintenance and "in kind" replacements would not require Rochester Preservation Board oversight. This as compared to Rochester Preservation Board review of individual activities in the park (a relic of the current city code language related to preservation of landmarks that does not adequately account for natural landscapes vs. buildings). This approach was not undertaken at the outset because Rochester City Code for designating Preservation Districts does not allow citizen applicants to initiate the process. Only the city administration can do so. On the other hand, citizens may identify a property they do not own in an Landmark application. The ramifications only became apparent late in the process. The group of applicants, feeling a bit frustrated at some advice provided by city staff early on and having committed over one year in the current process, evaluated the suggestion at a meeting of the group on July 15th. In short (and paraphrasing) the group decided the following... *The coalition supports a landmark district application strategy for all of Cobbs Hill Park led by the City administration and agrees to "hold" (not withdraw) the current Landmark application now before the City Planning Commission PROVIDED: the current **Landmark** status now covering Cobbs Hill Reservoir and related grounds remains in full affect; the coalition members receive certain assurances about support for the effort from the City administration; the coalition members confirm the City's Department of Environmental Services is an appropriate agency to represent the City on the new application; expedited action relative to the review and approval process of the new application is assured; and the process concludes before a date certain (TBD). Separately, the members of the coalition offer their strong support for any future effort to update the current code relative to Landmark preservation using a "best practices" approach that would update the current code language either under the auspices of the Zoning Alignment Project or a separate effort.* After communicating this information to City staff by email a follow-up meeting was scheduled for early morning on Thursday, July 17th at City Hall to identify the path forward as partners. {% file src="/files/kSSA1X4G6MxtOQywa9rq" %} ## UPDATE AS OF JUNE 25, 2025 On June 23, 2025 the City Planning Commission (CPC) voted to hold the application to extend Landmark site status (to those areas of Cobbs Hill Park not already covered) to allow relevant city departments more time to review certain implications and submit comments to the CPC. This despite city departments having been fully aware of the application for approximately a year; after city department representatives had met with the applicants on more than one occasion and after the Rochester Preservation Board held two public hearings and approved the application unanimously earlier this year. Since the Rochester Preservation Board approved the application unanimously, the City Planning Commission was/is considering only three criteria: * *The proposed designation will be in harmony with the City's Comprehensive Plan and overall planning program of the City;* * *The proposed designation will not adversely impact the growth and development of the City; and* * *The proposed designation will not adversely impact any scheduled public improvement or renewal project.* In their "Hold" notice members of the CPC indicated their satisfaction with the first two items during their deliberations after the first public hearing on June 23rd. They focused their attention on item #3 in allowing city departments more time. {% file src="/files/omBDDRcioUretfdCaEfl" %} **A new hearing date has been set for Monday, July 21 at 6:00 pm in City Hall. Details Below.** **Members of the public are STRONGLY encouraged to submit their personal thoughts, observations and opinions to the City Planning Commission by Friday, July 18th at 5:00 pm by email and/or attend the public hearing on July 21st in City Hall at 6:00 pm.**
## How to comment on a current CPC case 1. Submit written comments by email, mail, or deliver them to City Hall. * **Email:** [planningcommission@cityofrochester.gov](https://mail.google.com/mail/?view=cm\&fs=1\&tf=1\&to=planningcommission@cityofrochester.gov) * **Mail:** Zoning Office c/o Planning Commission, 30 Church St. Rm. 125B, Rochester, NY 14614 * **Written comment submission deadline:** close-of-business, the business day before the hearing by 5:00 P.M. * Written comments must include the project address and the commentor's, first name, last name, address, and contact information. 2. Speak at the public hearing. * **Location:** City Hall, City Council Chamber, 30 Church St. Rm. 302-A, Rochester, NY 14614. * Comments may not exceed 3 minutes in length or 10 minutes for neighborhood associations. *** ## UPDATE AS OF JUNE 17, 2025 The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association submitted the following letter of support for the application now pending before the City Planning Commission. A hearing has been scheduled to decide this issue on Monday, June 23, 2025. Information about the hearing and instructions on how to submit a letter to the City Planning Commission is below the embedded letter. {% embed url="" %} *** ## UPDATE AS OF MAY 23, 2025 The coalition prepared an application information package in support of extending Landmark Site Status was delivered to the City Planning Commission on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The public hearing before the City Planning Commission has been scheduled for Monday, June 23, 2025. A copy of the application, hearing agenda and a list of instructions on how to comment on this application are all listed below. {% file src="/files/XMeUDw5xthKbYiJRrijq" %} {% file src="/files/GyREKLROKRwkIcrQNBXx" %}
*** ## UPDATE AS OF MAY 8, 2025 On May 7, 2025 the Rochester Preservation Board (RPB) approved the application to extend Landmark Site status to those portions of Cobbs Hill Park that are not currently covered with a unanimous vote. {% file src="/files/m9bsTC3hjVK9YQd9S7DD" %} ### What's next... The City Planning Commission will hear public comments and review the application at it's meeting on June 23, 2025. The Landmark designation standards that the City Planning Commission will consider are as follows: 1. The proposed designation will be in harmony with the City's Comprehensive Plan and overall planning program of the City. 2. The proposed designation will not adversely impact the growth and development of the City. 3. The proposed designation will not adversely impact any scheduled public improvement or renewal project. *** ## UPDATE AS OF MARCH 6, 2025 On March 5, 2025 the Rochester Preservation Board (RPB) held a public hearing on the application to extend Landmark Site status to those portions of Cobbs Hill Park that are not currently covered. (Application and staff report are below.) At the public hearing the Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association, the ABC Streets Neighborhood Association, the Indigenous Peoples Day Committee, the Rochester Olmsted Parks Alliance, the Cobbs Hill Historic District Committee, the Park Meigs Neighborhood Association, the Landmark Society of Western New York all spoke in favor of the application. Each speaker addressed a different element of the application. One individual resident of Rochester spoke in opposition to the application. A city employee charged with overseeing the management of Cobbs Hill Park also spoke at the hearing. RPB members asked questions. One or another of the co-applicants rose to respond to those questions. Staff for the RPB offered guidance on various elements of the exchange.
Following the public hearing the RPB deliberated in open session but without participation with the public. The RPB took two votes following their deliberations. In the first instance the board voted unanimously to sponsor the application in accordance with zoning code section 120-193A(4)(a)\[2]. This approval allows the applicant to make the landmark designation proposal, despite the applicant not being the City Council, the Planning Commission, the Preservation Board, or the property owner. Although this was more of a technical matter the board *could* have quashed the application with that vote. In the second instance, the Board voted to "hold" the landmark designation for further review. They requested a set of relevant characteristics that would more specifically define what was to be protected so future Rochester Preservation Board members would have a clearer guidance. {% file src="/files/h8U7IJeWKLZ4mo0vwO5L" %} {% file src="/files/P9UK50vG0BMw0LbZqFTN" %} {% file src="/files/mVEgPygDx1W5CbFApLkW" %} ***
BACKGROUND Over the years visitors to Cobbs Hill Park have witnessed a trend of incremental developments on Park grounds. Projects large and small have accumulated in the Park with little apparent consideration of the overall impact on the Park experience and on the Park itself. Each well intended project has had its benefits and justifications. The cumulative effects of these projects sparked a conversation among some neighbors to explore ideas in support of a long term vision for the Park. Early in 2024 neighbors of Cobbs Hill Park became aware of applications for two pavilions proposed for construction in Cobbs Hill Park. One application required review and approval by the Preservation Board of Rochester and the other did not. Curiosity around this situation revealed a decision in the early 1970s that removed landmark site status for some of the Park. Subsequent research indicated the legal rationale for reducing the landmark boundaries in Cobbs Hill Park have since been revised and may now allow landmark site status for the entire Park, if desired. Please See [The Backstory: Two Pavilions, Two Standards](/hot-topics/supporting-cobbs-hill-park/the-backstory-two-pavilions-two-standards) for more details. ​Running in the background of the abovementioned pavilion applications, City property owners​ immediately east and northeast of ​the Cobbs Hill Park ​borderline initiated an effort to recognize their ​residential neighborhood in a federally recognized historic district to be known as the “Cobbs Hill Historic District”. The proposed “Cobbs Hill Historic District” ​application was designed to include a distinct section apart from the developed residential neighborhood covering all of Cobbs Hill Park. If the historic district application is eventually approved, it would recognize Cobbs Hill Park as historically important but without the imposition of any restrictions, rules or oversight. Said another way, any federally recognized historic district covering Cobbs Hill Park would bestow only honorific benefits. Federal recognition begs the question: If all of Cobbs Hill Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, should the Park be recognized as a landmark site at the local level? Incidental exchanges around these topics led representatives of the[ ABC Streets Neighborhood Association](https://www.abcstreets.org/), the Nunda Boulevard Neighborhood Association, and the Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association to gather informally at[ Village Bakery in The Armory on Culver Road](https://villagebakeries.com/) to chat about Cobbs Hill Park and share ideas about how to help support the Park. Some of those present happened to also be active in the[ Olmstead Parks Alliance](https://www.olmstedrochester.org/). Megan Klem from the[ Landmark Society of Western NY](https://landmarksociety.org/) was engaged as a resource but did not participate in the initial informal conversations. Later, some of these neighbors and a relevant array of City representatives shared ideas and perspectives. From the outset it was clear, broad public engagement around any ideas affecting the Park would be essential and warmly welcomed. Not long after these events, the exploration expanded to include outreach to The Friends of Washington Grove. Neighbors immediately adjacent to Cobbs Hill Park in the Highland Heights Homeowners Association and members of the Cobbs Hill Village Tenants Association also expressed a strong desire to engage and collaborate. Efforts to expand outreach even further have since been undertaken. After over a year of discussion, exploration, research, outreach and collaboration the six organizations exploring the extension of landmark site status to all of Cobbs Hill Park have completed and submitted an application to the City of Rochester. A copy of the application may be found on this page. Some additional background and updates on this topic are located here: [The Backstory: Two Pavilions, Two Standards](/hot-topics/supporting-cobbs-hill-park/the-backstory-two-pavilions-two-standards) and here: [What About A Master Plan for Cobbs Hill Park?](/hot-topics/supporting-cobbs-hill-park/what-about-a-master-plan-for-cobbs-hill-park)
STATEMENT OF INTENTION To explore landmark site status for all of Cobbs Hill Park in collaboration with and under the auspices of City government. If the exploration reveals expansion of landmark site status to all of Cobbs Hill Park is desirable, to collaborate in the development of an application.
EXPRESSION OF VALUES * Supporting public engagement throughout these explorations and during any formal processes is essential and warmly welcomed. * Supporting appreciation of Cobbs Hill Park's long history covering all time periods beginning with the geological formation of what is now known as Cobbs Hill Park, covering all aspects of the natural environment as well as certain worthy elements of the built environment and all interactions between humans and the area across the epochs up to the present moment. * Expanded public engagement through Interpretive programs, wayfinding & related components * Supporting passive Park experiences & the appreciation of natural beauty and wildlife * Expanding public engagement through Interpretive programs, wayfinding & related components * Supporting Park care and maintenance activities performed by City employees and performed by caring citizens in collaboration with City government * Respecting residents and property owners living adjacent to and in proximity to the Park * Supporting organized and casual physical activities including: running; walking; playing frisbee; fishing; hiking; basketball; tennis; softball; volleyball; yoga; tai-chi; photowalks; bird watching; working out on fitness equipment; kite-flying; biking; playing on the playground equipment, and other additional active recreational activities and programs that may be presented or take place in the Park from time to time. * Supporting smaller-scale private social gatherings (picnics, birthday parties, etc.) that take place on Park grounds as well as in Park lodges * Supporting larger-scale community-wide activities on Park grounds * Supporting and building on the racial, social, ethnic, economic, and cultural diversity present in the Park * Expanding accessibility to the Park and Park facilities
COALITION MEMBERS **Thomas Pastecki**, President ABC Street Neighborhood Association; **Megan Klem**, Director Preservation Services Landmark Society of Western New York; **JoAnn Beck**, President Rochester Olmsted Parks Alliance; **Kathy Castania**, Co-Chair Indigenous Peoples Day Committee; **Steve Danyew**, Chair Cobbs Hill Historic District Committee; **Jeff Mills**, Vice President Nunda Blvd. Association; **Rome Celli**, President Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association. In addition, Trish Corcoran co-chair of Indigenous Peoples Day Committee; **Ed Olinger** and **Andrew Seager** from the Rochester Olmstead Parks Alliance and others have participated in this process.
UMNA adopted a goal a to pursue ideas supporting Cobbs Hill Park in the [2024 UMNA Work Plan](/work-plan-and-budget/2024-umna-plan-and-budget/2024-umna-work-plan)
# The Backstory: Two Pavilions, Two Standards ## FYI Cobbs Hill Park contains certain areas are that officially recognized by the City of Rochester as "landmark" sites. Changes in those areas are subject to the review and approval of the Rochester Preservation Board. Other areas of Cobbs Hill Park are not recognized/designated. ## How our interest in this topic got started The UMNA Local History Nerds got started on this topic late in January, 2024 when neighbors were notified the City of Rochester intended to construct two new pavilions in Cobbs Hill Park. According to information provided to neighbors the Rochester Preservation Board (RPB) would have to review and approve ONE of the two pavilions before it could be constructed. Yes, you read that right, ONE pavilion but not the other. Really? The pavilion requiring review was to be placed SOUTH of Norris Drive behind the playground, adjacent to a parking lot commonly used for those playing tennis at the far western end of the park near Monroe Avenue. The pavilion that did NOT require RPB approval was to be placed NORTH of Norris Drive adjacent to the parking lot just east of the Lake Riley Lodge. [*Click here to see more information about the proposal to build pavilions in Cobbs Hill Park.*](/hot-topics/past-hot-topics/proposed-shelters-at-cobbs-hill-park) ## So... A couple of neighbors reached out to the City. They asked probing questions around why one pavilion required approval and the other didn't. The responses they got from City reps were, frankly, contradictory. One of the neighbors reached out to [Megan Klem, Director of Preservation Services for The Landmark Society of Western New York](https://landmarksociety.org/megan-klem-joins-landmark-staff/) for answers. It turns out the areas recognized as being associated with landmark sites in Cobbs Hill Park had been amended (reduced) in 1972. Here's what Megan Klem wrote: *"Attached you will find the 1972 decision to remove the parcels north of Norris Drive and east of the Water Authority properties from the landmark designation. **Basically, this happened because of a technicality in what the definition of a landmark site was in the code at that time**." ( Emphasis added.)* Megan included a copy of the 1972 map with the revised boundary lines and the document signed by Mayor Thomas P. Ryan from that time that amended the designated areas covered by Cobbs Hill Park landmark sites. See below.

Boundary lines of the areas officially recognized by the City of Rochester as landmark sites after being amended in 1972.

{% file src="/files/EPTv7cEFBU22lg9TmmWp" %} The decision to amend the Cobbs Hill Preservation District boundary in 1972 {% endfile %} ### UMNA Local History Nerds had sooooo many questions * What were the original boundaries? * What about the Erie Canal Eastern Wide Waters (Lake Riley)? * What about the two lodges: Lake Riley Lodge and Tay House Lodge? * What about Washington Grove? * What about the "Portage Trail" or other aspects of Cobbs Hill Park related to Indigenous Peoples? *** #### Exploring landmark site status for all of Cobbs Hill Park was adopted in the [2024 UMNA Work Plan](/work-plan-and-budget/2024-umna-plan-and-budget/2024-umna-work-plan)
# What About A Master Plan for Cobbs Hill Park? UMNA would be interested in a community conversation about the possibility of a Cobbs Hill park masterplan. No substantive action has taken place on this topic.
# Reservoir LT2 Compliance Project The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association will play an active advisory role in the LT2 Compliance Project. This page will help residents understand & facilitate resident engagement. ## Background The City's reservoirs are mandated to comply with the EPA's "Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule". The City of Rochester maintains three finished drinking water reservoirs, Rush Reservoir, Cobb's Hill Reservoir, and Highland Reservoir. In 2006, the USEPA adopted the LT2 regulations that impacted all uncovered water storage facilities, including all three Reservoirs. The Rush Reservoir was brought into compliance with the LT2 rule with the installation of a synthetic rubber liner and floating cover in 2012. Both Cobb's Hill and Highland Reservoirs are open finished water storage facilities which are still required to comply with LT2 regulations by 2035. [City of Rochester LT2 Webpage](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/department-environmental-services-des/highland-and-cobbs-hill-reservoir-lt2-compliance) [Click here to sign up for the City's newsletter for LT2.](https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=LtonvrSU2kGUffYC1g6AfL-2E3jUPIhNphfqC5Y-yYBUOUhSMkVJSU9FMzZMS1BVMjNRWjdZVUtWSC4u\&route=shorturl) *** ### The article below offers a good general explanation of where things stand as of early, 2025 #### [Options for major changes at Highland, Cobbs Hill reservoirs gain focus as study widens](https://www.wxxinews.org/local-news/2025-05-07/major-changes-for-highland-park-cobbs-hill-reservoirs-gain-focus-as-study-widens) - WXXI News | By Brian Sharp Published May 7, 2025 > *"...something needs to change for the city to be in compliance with tightening federal water safety regulations for open top water storage facilities. Specifically, the rules aim to mitigate the risk of contamination from a pathogen called cryptosporidium."* *** ### Project Advisory Committee (PAC) Invitation (July, 2025) An advisory committee has been established to facilitate communication between the project planners and, residents and stakeholders in the community. {% file src="/files/M5TmYGhHoLqs0iXyEpha" %} > *"Recognizing the sensitivity associated with potential alterations in Highland Park and Cobbs Hill Park, the City is establishing a PAC to ensure stakeholders with varying perspectives and experiences have a voice in the alternative evaluation process. In addition to providing input and guidance, PAC representatives will be asked to assist the City in relaying project information and educating the community on the purpose and the need for the project. PAC representatives will also be asked to encourage interested individuals to participate in the public engagement activities through the duration of the project." - excerpt from the PAC invitation letter.* ### Rome Celli, president of UMNA, will serve on the Project Advisory Committee for the City's LT2 Compliance Project. *** ### Surface Water Treatment Rules & LT2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rules The purpose of the Surface Water Treatment Rules (SWTRs) is to reduce illnesses caused by pathogens in drinking water. The disease-causing pathogens include *Legionella*, *Giardia lamblia, and Cryptosporidium*. The SWTRs requires water systems to filter and disinfect surface water sources. Some water systems are allowed to use disinfection only for surface water sources that meet criteria for water quality and watershed protection. The Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule addresses the health effects associated with *Cryptosporidium* in surface water used as a drinking water supply. These guidance documents provide information on the source water sampling monitoring requirements for *Cryptosporidium* and the treatment requirements for vulnerable surface water supplies based on sampling. Fact Sheets for LT2 Rule * [Long Term 2 Enhanced Surface Water Treatment Rule Fact Sheet (PDF)](http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPDF.cgi?Dockey=2000E999.txt) (4 pp, 44 K, [About PDF](https://www.epa.gov/home/pdf-files)) EPA 815-F-05-002 * [LT2ESWTR Source Water Monitoring for Systems Serving At Least 10,000 People Factsheet (PDF)](http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPDF.cgi?Dockey=P10058CI.txt)(4 pp, 102 K, [About PDF](https://www.epa.gov/home/pdf-files)) EPA 816-F-06-017 * [LT2ESWTR Source Water Monitoring for Systems Serving Less Than 10,000 People Factsheet (PDF)](http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPDF.cgi?Dockey=P10058CM.txt)(4pp, 88 K, [About PDF](https://www.epa.gov/home/pdf-files)) EPA 816-F-06-018 * [LT2ESWTR Data Collection and Tracking System Factsheet (PDF)](http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPDF.cgi?Dockey=P10058CQ.txt)(2 pp, 62 K, [About PDF](https://www.epa.gov/home/pdf-files)) EPA 816-F-06-019 * [LT2ESWTR Laboratory Factsheet (PDF)](http://nepis.epa.gov/Exe/ZyPDF.cgi?Dockey=P10058CS.txt)(2 pp, 45 K, [About PDF](https://www.epa.gov/home/pdf-files)) EPA 816-F-06-020 ### Project schedule as proposed (may be modified) | **Date** | **Activity** | | ------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Summer - Fall 2024 |
  • Initial Project Kick-Off
  • Project Advisory Committee #1
  • Public Workshop #1
| | Summer 2025 |
  • Project Re-introduction
  • Stakeholder Outreach
  • Data Collection
  • Alternatives Analysis
  • Public Workshop #2
| | Fall 2025 |
  • Stakeholder Outreach
  • Alternatives Analysis
  • Public Workshop #3
  • Report Development
| | Winter 2025-26 |
  • Stakeholder Outreach
  • Report Development
  • Environmental Assessment
| | Spring 2026 |
  • Public Workshop #4
  • Stakeholder Outreach
  • Environmental Assessment
  • Report Development
| | Summer 2026 |
  • Stakeholder Outreach
  • Environmental Assessment
  • Report Development
| |

Fall 2026 –

Winter 2027

|
  • Stakeholder Outreach
  • Environmental Assessment
  • Report Development
| | Spring 2027 |
  • Environmental Assessment
  • Final Report Completion
  • Final Recommendations
| {% embed url="" %}
# UPDATE | August 2025 | Project Advisory Committee Meeting This page will update you on the first Project Advisory Committee (PAC) Meeting held at School #15 on August 14, 2025
Look here for links to background information about the LT2 Compliance Project * [Click here to go to the Highland and Cobb's Hill Reservoir LT2 Compliance Project page on the City of Rochester's website](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/department-environmental-services-des/highland-and-cobbs-hill-reservoir-lt2-compliance) * [Click here to sign up for the City's newsletter for LT2.](https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=LtonvrSU2kGUffYC1g6AfL-2E3jUPIhNphfqC5Y-yYBUOUhSMkVJSU9FMzZMS1BVMjNRWjdZVUtWSC4u\&route=shorturl) * For background information about UMNA's effort please visit [Reservoir LT2 Compliance Project](/hot-topics/supporting-cobbs-hill-park/reservoir-lt2-compliance-project)
The file below contains an audio recording on the presentation including followup questions. You may find it necessary to turn the volume up in order to adequately hear the recording. {% file src="/files/c4kXgW5ixQYYVc6IPrRy" %}
# Public Safety Task Force Concerns over incidents of vandalism, crime, violence & various types of conflicts occasionally flare up. This section provides information about how UMNA helps to address these situations. ### Background
The Public Safety Task Force originates from a community discussion held on Saturday, September 7, 2024 when a group of over two dozen neighbors gathered in the front yard of a home near the corner of Pinnacle Road & Shepard Street for about 60 minutes to begin identifying practical ways to enhance public safety in the area. {% file src="/files/pt0CviCpBICmnYmNqOpU" %} [**Click here if you would like to participate in developing and implementing practical solutions to help make our neighborhood safer.**](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd1B71sVNUhBwFJbngECkhshSbjhh7OYcb9Xa0JCIbfxgVjKg/viewform?usp=sf_link) ## Task Force Goals 1. Provide support to individual(s) residing in Upper Monroe directly affected by acts of crime, violence, vandalism and other undesirable behaviors (trespassing, disturbances, interpersonal conflict, noise, nuisances, etc.); 2. Provide support to the neighbors in close proximity to where the incident took place; 3. Advocate for the community for dedicated services and resources as well as in the area of public policy; and 4. Report to the community via this section of our website and other communications channels when appropriate As you might expect, UMNA will take action to protect the neighborhood as a whole around any issue identified by the community. ### The Approach When incidents such as these take place each resident-victim is certainly allowed to take actions allowed by law for their own protection to suit their individual needs/interests and on their own initiative. The Upper Monroe Neighborhood does not support vigilantism in any form. UMNA strongly urges residents to engage government agencies, non-profit organizations and institutions in any effort to resolve issues of concern. Further, UMNA urges caution and restraint in the language used to describe situations and characterize suspected perpetrators in all private and public discussions. This section describes actions undertaken by UMNA in support of resident-victims and in concert with the resident-victims as well as neighboring residents. Each situation will require some combination of resources, tactics and approaches. These pages will orient towards short and long term direct actions while leaving indirect activities (community building programs that also help prevent crime, vandalism, violence, etc.) to other sections of our work plan. It should be remembered UMNA is neither a law enforcement agency, security firm nor a social service agency. As a small all-volunteer community group with very limited resources UMNA seeks to provide grassroots-level support to residents; connect residents with appropriate resources; help organize advocacy efforts alongside affected residents and, if appropriate, undertake community education and organized action related to public policy. ### List of Incidents: * [Incidents Associated With Vagrant Individuals](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/incidents-associated-with-vagrant-individuals) * [Vehicle Break-ins and Vandalism | ONGOING](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/vehicle-break-ins-and-vandalism-or-ongoing) * [Conflicts associated with a group of juveniles | 2024 | RESOLVED](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/conflicts-associated-with-a-group-of-juveniles-or-2024-or-resolved) ## Privacy This section is intended to drive solutions rather than share particulars about situations. Neither the personal information nor the exact location associated with any of these situations will be disclosed in this forum. ## Police In nearly every case the police department will be engaged before UMNA activates. The most common first step taken by victims is contacting 911 (crime in progress) or 311 (incident report after-the-fact). Each incident described in this section will include a reference to any role the police have played in that incident. ### What's not addressed in this section This section will not cover incidents related to property code compliance; private non-violent disputes between neighbors (e.g., property line disputes); incidents involving domestic abuse/violence within private spaces; tenant-landlord disputes, zoning violations, unfair business practices, etc. *In no way should visitors of this section think the information contained here is comprehensive or complete. This page should be considered a point of entry. To plug into this effort please contact* [*umna@uppermonroe.org*](mailto:umna@uppermonroe.org)*.*
# Incidents Associated With Vagrant Individuals Certain individuals have exhibited undesirable behaviors in various areas of the neighborhood putting them in conflict with residents. This section tracks circumstances & describes follow-up actions. *In no way should visitors of this page/section think the information contained here is comprehensive or complete. This page should be considered a point of entry. To plug into this effort please contact* [*umna@uppermonroe.org*](mailto:umna@uppermonroe.org)*.* ## Background #### The incidents & circumstances described in this category tend to arise at different times in various locations around the neighborhood. Many resolve fairly quickly with little or no community engagement while others linger and may require the community to take action. The individuals exhibiting the undesirable behaviors described in this section are neither property owners nor tenants in our area. By all appearances they are vagrant. They may also fairly be referred to as "unhoused' or "indigent". Use of these words should not be considered derogatory. They are used here merely as descriptive terms. Some definitions... * **Vagrant:** a person without a settled home or regular work who wanders from place to place and may live by begging. a wanderer. * **Indigent:** Experiencing want or need; impoverished. Lacking or deficient. Wanting; void; free; destitute. * **Homelessness, also known as houselessness or being unhoused or unsheltered:** The condition of lacking stable, safe, and functional housing. When people desire a permanent dwelling but do not have one. It's important to recognize a person's current status may result from a variety/combination of causes including mental illness, job loss, or drug use. A person may or may not wish to change their current status or address the cause(s). It is not illegal to be homeless, indigent, vagrant or to refuse help. Certain *behaviors* cross the line, of course. Even so, there are legal and practical considerations that limit the options for law enforcement. Addressing incidents involving individuals in these status categories is very, very, very difficult as a result. Unhoused individuals, people living in poverty and vagrant individuals have been present along the Monroe Avenue corridor for many years. We see them sleeping out in the open, panhandling and generally hanging out in our midst. Conflicts between these individuals and residents, however, are relatively uncommon in Upper Monroe. In those cases when conflict arises action may be appropriate. ### Incidents in this category * [Monroe Avenue & Field Street | ONGOING](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/incidents-associated-with-vagrant-individuals/monroe-avenue-and-field-street-or-ongoing) * [Pinnacle Hill | ONGOING](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/incidents-associated-with-vagrant-individuals/pinnacle-hill-or-ongoing) * [Miscellaneous | 2024 | RESOLVED](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/incidents-associated-with-vagrant-individuals/miscellaneous-or-2024-or-resolved) *** ## Resources related to this general topic **AUDIO RECORDINGS** - Click on the files below to open and listen to two audio recordings (approximately 20 minutes long each) from[ a public meeting hosted by NBN6 at the Olmstead Lodge](https://mailchi.mp/0d8151249b22/nbn6-e-news-april-21-10331219?e=c082983582) on September 9, 2024. {% file src="/files/W1Hoce1Wf3UbwXC8jwGn" %} {% file src="/files/aBpfjIQJUZhE22d8jt8Y" %}
# Monroe Avenue & Field Street | ONGOING This page describes certain incidents & circumstances identified by neighbors & business owners in the vicinity of Monroe Avenue and Field Street. For an overview of this section please look here: [Incidents Associated With Vagrant Individuals](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/incidents-associated-with-vagrant-individuals). For an overview of the UMNA Public Safety efforts look here: [Public Safety Task Force](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force). *In no way should visitors of this page think the information contained here is comprehensive or complete. This page should be considered a point of entry. To plug into this effort please contact* [*umna@uppermonroe.org*](mailto:umna@uppermonroe.org)*.* This page is organized like a blog with the most recent posts at the top and prior posts below. ## UPDATE | ZOOM meeting on December 9, 2025
Background information about the meeting The meeting was organized by the [Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association (UMNA)](https://www.uppermonroe.org/) with support from **John Snyder** and others. **A GENERAL OUTLINE OF THE DISCUSSION** (Facilitated by **Rome Celli**, president of [UMNA](https://www.uppermonroe.org/)) * Overall, [UMNA](https://www.uppermonroe.org/) intended this discussion to provide forward momentum in the direction of humane, practical solutions that we can work on together and that will benefit all those involved. * The meeting started out with an opportunity for those interested to briefly share their perspectives so that potential action items could be identified. (15 mins or so) * Discussion (30 mins or so) * Action items & next steps (15 mins or so) * Since the time together was limited, participants were encouraged to distill their concerns and prepare ideas that we can work on together. #### Invitees and participants * **Kristen Ashley** (resident on Shepard Street, UMNA leadership) - Attended * **John Brach** ([Special Assistant to Mayor Malik Evans](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/mayors-office/john-brach-special-assistant-mayor)) - Attended * **Andy Carey** ([MC Collaborative](http://mccollaborative.org/), [Neighborhood Ambassador Program on Monroe Avenue](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/mayors-office/neighborhood-ambassador-program)) - Invited but unable to participate * **Patrick Casey** (resident on Suter Terrace, UMNA Treasurer) - Attended * **Rome Celli** (resident on Werner Park, [UMNA](https://www.uppermonroe.org/) president, [steering committee Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc)) - Attended * **Janet Clarke-Hazlett** (resident on Roosevelt Street, UMNA leadership) - Invited but unable to participate * **Terrell Cunningham** ([Coordinator of Neighborhood Safety](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/office-violence-prevention/office-neighborhood-safety), City of Rochester) - Invited but unable to participate * **Tony DiFlorio** (landlord on Monroe Avenue) - Attended * **Sarah Fletcher** ([Deputy Commissioner, City of Rochester Department of Recreation and Human Services](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/department-recreation-and-human-services-drhs/drhs-leadership-team)) - Attended * **Dave Ferguson** (resident on Nelson Street, [Swillburg NA](https://www.swillburg.org/) leadership) - Attended * **Linda Hasman** ([County Legislator, 23rd District](https://www.monroecounty.gov/legislature-legislators)) - Invited but unable to participate * **Judy Hay** (resident on Benton Street, [Swillburg NA](https://www.swillburg.org/) president) - Attended * **Peter House** (resident on Laburnam Crescent, UMNA leadership) - Attended * **Courtney Klee** (resident on Boardman Street, [MC Collaborative](http://mccollaborative.org/), [Neighborhood Ambassador Program on Monroe Avenue](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/mayors-office/neighborhood-ambassador-program)) - Attended * **Mary Kate Koecheler** (resident on Crosman Terrace) - Invited but unable to participate * **Elizabeth Lyons/Jennifer Schinzing** ([More Fire Glass](https://www.morefireglass.com/)) - Invited but unable to participate * **Mary Lupien** ([Rochester City Council, East District](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/meet-rochesters-city-councilmembers/councilmember-mary-lupien-east-district)) - Invited but unable to participate * **Fred McCoy/Melissa Feldman** ([Bar Bad Ending](https://www.barbadending.com/), residents on Crosman Terrace) - Fred McCoy attended * **John Snyder** (landlord on Laburnam Crescent) - Attended * **Fatima Razic** (resident on Crosman Terrace, UMNA leadership) - Attended * **Kyle Vosburgh** - ([Center For Youth](https://www.centerforyouth.net/)) - Invited but unable to participate * **Jeanne Weber** (resident on Alliance Avenue, UMNA leadership) - Attended * **Alex White** ([Baldo's Armory](https://www.boldo.com/)) - Attended * **Nick Wilbur** ([South East Area Coalition](https://seacrochester.org/)) - Attended * Other residents in the immediate vicinity with known email addresses were also invited but did not attend.
Summary report from the meeting **Residents, landlords and business owners on the ZOOM were asked to list their concerns and observations about the vicinity of Monroe Avenue and Field Street. (The list below is in no particular order.)** * Unsafe feeling in the area * Occasional presence of homeless "encampments" - near expressway ramps, behind commercial buildings, on residential properties, on sidewalks, on benches, in recessed entryways of commercial buildings. (Small fires have been seen on/near benches.) * Trash/debris related to sites where individuals are staying overnight/lingering/using * Pinnacle Hill was noted as an encampment site. See [Pinnacle Hill | ONGOING](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/incidents-associated-with-vagrant-individuals/pinnacle-hill-or-ongoing). * Trouble keeping and finding tenants. Tenants who feel harassed/uncomfortable. * Petty thefts, attempted thefts and some vandalism (unclear if related to homeless population) * Individuals who trespass and, in some instances were found to be sleeping on porches * A notable increase in the number and presence of homeless and vagrants. See: [Point In Time Count (PIT)](https://letsendhomelessness.org/) * A lack of services available to support those who are unhoused or otherwise needing services (drug use, mental health, poverty, etc.) with little hope of expanded services * Drug use and drug paraphernalia in the area - notably in and around "Bloom Garden" along Field Street and Pembroke Street. * At least two drug overdose deaths in the summer of 2025: [Overdose Deaths 2025 | Remembering Luke & Kyle](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/incidents-associated-with-vagrant-individuals/monroe-avenue-and-field-street-or-ongoing/overdose-deaths-2025-or-remembering-luke-and-kyle) * Impeding or otherwise discouraging business activity in the area * Employees & customers who feel harassed/uncomfortable * Aggressive panhandling and activates related to panhandling that are unsafe (traffic as well as pedestrian) * Some of individuals in the area who are unhoused or otherwise exhibiting illegal/undesirable behaviors refuse services when offered/engaged **In the midst of listing concerns and then following the listing of concerns a number of related discussions ensued that yielded some notable points and action items as follows** * **NOTE:** Homelessness is not a crime. The Police do not arrest people who are homeless. * A number of local agencies, non-profit groups and RPD engage one-on-one with individuals on and near Monroe Avenue * The Rochester Ambassador Program is designed to help those who want to improve their lives and work towards self-sufficiency. The program offers paid employment to a limited number of unhoused individuals found all along Monroe. Participants are paid to support businesses and do community work along Monroe Avenue. * **PRO TIP:** A business located along Monroe Avenue may contact **Courtney Klee** (MC Collaborative 716-256-9236/cklee\@mccollaborative.org - City of Rochester Ambassador Program - 585-283-0830) if they have a small project that can be accomplished with some unskilled labor. **There is NO FEE to the business**. * **NOTE:** The Rochester Ambassador Program is not responsible for handling all aspects of homelessness and related issues. Their work is targeted. However, **Courtney Klee** is an excellent resource and may be able to answer questions or make connections with other services. * Trespassing, harassment, robbery, burglary, assault, aggressive panhandling or other sorts of violent situations * **PRO TIP:** Call 911 immediately. Do not hesitate to call 911. * Residents, business owners, landlords are discouraged from acting directly * **NOTE:** Panhandling is not - in and of itself - enforced as a crime in Rochester. * Drug use * A *large* amount of foot traffic in/out of a particular location * Vehicles and pedestrians visiting the property for short periods * Glassine/plastic baggies found near the suspected location * Used needles or other drug paraphernalia strewn about in the area * **PRO TIP:** When you see any of the above **call 311**. * **NOTE:** Marijuana use is not a crime. * Encampment-type situations * If individuals are found/reported (911/311) to be "encamping", the city will intervene by engaging any individuals on site. After adequate notice is given by the city (often more than one week) the city will dispose of trash/debris. Items identified by the city as personal belongings will be removed and stored for up to 90 days. Those items may be retrieved by the owner during the 90 days. * If the city is invited onto private property, the city will take action as described above. * **PRO TIP:** Private property owners are allowed by law to remove any trash, debris and any presumed belongings located on their property at any time and without prior notice. * **PRO TIP:** Residents, businesses and landlords are encouraged to contact **Courtney Klee** (MC Collaborative 716-256-9236/cklee\@mccollaborative.org - City of Rochester Ambassador Program - 585-283-0830) so that they may engage with individuals and remove items in manner that may be more efficient for neighbors and less disruptive for the owners of those items. * **PRO TIP:** If encampment is not gone within a week after reaching out to Courtney/Ambassador Program, contact **Sarah Fletcher** at the city directly (call or text) at 585-261-2485. She will put resources in action to check the encampment three times and then move the belongings to storage. * **NOTE: Sarah Fletcher** ([Deputy Commissioner, City of Rochester Department of Recreation and Human Services](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/department-recreation-and-human-services-drhs/drhs-leadership-team)) coordinates a range of outreach services in that involve the City of Rochester including the city's [**Action Team**](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/department-recreation-and-human-services-drhs/action-team)**.** **ADOVCACY & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT** While individuals must advocate on an incident-by-incident and day-to-day basis the community must come together to advocate for more systemic solutions.
{% file src="/files/Vyj3kmYI5wFLAuhTTYYX" %}
Summary report from a related subsequent in-person meeting on December 16, 2025. Monroe County Legislator, **Linda Hasman**, and City Councilmember, **Mary Lupien**, could not attend the ZOOM meeting on December 9, 2025. Since governmental agencies are integral to addressing neighbors' concerns a follow-up meeting was held to share information from the ZOOM meeting and continue the conversation about homelessness (and related topics) in the vicinity of Monroe Avenue and Field Street. Monroe County Legislator, **Linda Hasman**, and **Kelly Cheatle**, staffer for City Councilmember **Mary Lupien** met with **Rome Celli** from UMNA and **Judy Hay** from Swillburg at Hydra Coffee on December 16, 2025. What follows is a summary of topics covered. * We reviewed & discussed information collected during the ZOOM meeting on December 9th. (See above.) * We discussed in detail the recent dramatic growth of homelessness and related needs as well as emerging challenges. [Continuum Of Care - Partners Ending Homelessness](https://letsendhomelessness.org/) * The Monroe County [Impact Team](https://www.monroecounty.gov/health-impact) program and various harm reduction efforts were also reviewed. * The various roles of [city human services](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/homelessness-resources-rochester#care) and [county human services](https://www.monroecounty.gov/hs) were touched on. * [City Council President Meléndez's recent efforts in this area were discussed](https://rochesterbeacon.com/2025/10/09/new-focus-on-the-homelessness-crisis/). A report is expected momentarily. While the ZOOM meeting on December 9th focused on small scale, practical solutions to address particular incidents in the neighborhood, the conversation on December 12th at Hydra considered practical actions at the next level up - actions that involve advocacy in common cause with others who share similar concerns. * Coordinated and concerted advocacy public settings including "speak to council" and "speak to the legislature" opportunities. In particular, responding to the report from City Council President Meléndez's recent hearing on these topics. * We learned there may be something like $25,000,000 available at the county level for drug addition mitigation related services. Advocacy could be applied to the use of these funds.
*** ## Overview & Background Individuals suffering from extreme poverty, homelessness and a variety of related afflictions have been present on Monroe Avenue for decades. The area in proximity to Monroe Avenue and Field Street is one of many spots along Monroe Avenue that experiences evidence resulting from this suffering. In recent years, as the incidence of homelessness and poverty has risen (all over the region, the state and the nation as a whole) Monroe Avenue and Field Street has been identified by nearby neighbors as in need of concerted, practical, humane action. In general, neighbor concerns have fallen into the following categories: * Homeless encampments and miscellaneous related belongings left in public spaces * Vagrancy; * Drug use and discarded paraphernalia; * Aggressive Panhandling; * Business disruption including employee/tenant harassment; and * Low level criminality (petty theft, harassment, etc.) While uncommon, there have been at least some examples of more extreme criminality cited that neighbors, rightly or wrongly, associate with the above collection of evidence: death by drug overdose (twice in 2025) and more than one incident of physical altercations associated with panhandling or other interactions. Since 2024 UMNA has been working in common cause with all the other neighborhood associations touching Monroe Avenue as well as the Monroe Avenue Merchants Association under the auspices of the Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC). MARC has been working on these issues along the full length of Monroe Avenue (including the area covered on this page) since its earliest days. For information about MARC's efforts look <[**HERE**](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc)>. ### 2024 Over the course of 2024 neighbors reached out to UMNA for support on a variety of circumstances in this category (see [Miscellaneous | 2024 | RESOLVED](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/incidents-associated-with-vagrant-individuals/miscellaneous-or-2024-or-resolved)). ### 2025 In 2025 a new group of neighbors identified a set of troubling incidents that seemed to emanate from the vicinity of Monroe Avenue and Field Street; not least being the overdose death of two individuals as described in part here: [Broken mention](broken://pages/EEKIrI16NWYhOxtpNQgo). **John Snyder**, who initially contacted UMNA late in 2024 to report incidents of trespassing and low level criminality on his rental property (on Laburnam Crescent near Monroe Avenue), contacted UMNA again late in 2025 with more serious concerns covering a wider area; concerns that mirrored other calls to UMNA around the same time. These more recent incidents combined with longstanding concerns strongly suggested concerted community action. UMNA joined forces with **Snyder** to invite neighbors in the vicinity of Monroe Avenue and Field Street to a conversation with government representatives and service providers to get at practical, humane actions. That ZOOM meeting is described below.
# Overdose Deaths 2025 | Remembering Luke & Kyle Late in June, 2025 Upper Monroe neighbors noticed a small display placed at the base of the Upper Monroe Neighborhood sign on the corner of Monroe Avenue and Field Street where that intersection wraps around to Engel Place. The display included a collection of multi-colored artificial flowers, pinwheels, candles, a painted bicycle wheel and other elements. A box of sidewalk chalk was included, presumably to invite messages. It was all neatly arranged suggesting a respectful appreciation of someone special. The name "**Luke**" had been printed on the sidewalk. It was clear the display was a memorial to him. UMNA posted an article in the July 2nd edition of the UMNA e-newsletter asking anyone with knowledge about the memorial to share what they knew. In addition, UMNA reps reached out to area contacts for more information. Within a couple of days they had a few clues and a general idea of what happened. Eventually a neighbor on Luzerne Street noticed a first person description of the events that prompted the memorial on social media.
By early the flowing week the memorial had grown quite dramatically. ***
*On July 8th an UMNA member captured images of the messages so that if rain washed them away there would be a record.* *** It was clear from both the quantity and content of the messages that **Luke** had touched those around him in myriad ways. Stories flowed in about **Luke's** very complicated life from business owners, artists, friends and neighbors. The particulars of **Luke's** story was, of course, unique but the trajectory of his life followed a pattern neighbors see and experience with some regularity - usually with the sort of distance that can tend to de-humanize the individuals who are impoverished or unhoused, suffering from mental illness and/or drug addiction. *** **Taken from the Gospel of Luke - 6:37** > *"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven."* *** ### Overdose deaths in 2023 as reported by New York State.

Taken from the NYS Overdose Death Dashboard. See also the NYS Opioid Annual Data Report for 2024.

#### The information below was complied by [Madeline Lathrop](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fmZHMy_i4k68U5zfr1_oXiWIqi9TQrEEz0c8LazY7HU/edit?usp=sharing) with support from others While these listings are not comprehensive they will provide a starting place for someone in need. {% embed url="" %} # Pinnacle Hill | ONGOING This page describes certain incidents & circumstances identified by neighbors in the vicinity of Pinnacle Hill. *In no way should visitors of this page think the information contained here is comprehensive or complete. This page should be considered a point of entry. To plug into this effort please contact* [*umna@uppermonroe.org*](mailto:umna@uppermonroe.org)*.* ## Background For an overview of this section please look here: [Incidents Associated With Vagrant Individuals](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/incidents-associated-with-vagrant-individuals). For an overview of the UMNA Public Safety efforts look here: [Public Safety Task Force](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force). Pinnacle Hill has occasionally been the site of small scale encampments of unhoused individuals. Undesirable activities on Pinnacle Hill have included illegal alcohol consumption and drug use. On rare occasions a variety of other criminal activity has been seen or experienced there as well. It's important to note nearly all of Pinnacle Hill is privately owned. No portion of Pinnacle Hill is parkland. In fact, only a very small section of Pinnacle Hill is publicly owned! Most of Pinnacle Hill is owned by Hillside and the Hillside Foundation. For for information about properties on Pinnacle Hill look here: [Broken mention](broken://pages/xsO2Fapp3mv8aa4JqBGb) & [Broken mention](broken://pages/YjPfxcaj6jlIcwjlo6gB). ## Incident Timeline * At a point late in 2025 neighbors reported the presence of tents on Pinnacle Hill; this after noticing evidence of the same situation in 2024 that subsequently resolved very quickly without intervention. Neighbors tend to see this sort of thing come and go on an irregular basis. * At about the same time in 2025 the owner of a vacant three acre parcel fronting on Field Street (commonly used as a point of entry for hiking on Pinnacle Hill) posted "No Trespassing" signs on their property. While that owner has not disclosed their motivation for posting signs neighbors assumed a relationship between the signs and the tents. * These circumstances stimulated UMNA action and advocacy. * This topic was discussed in a ZOOM meeting held on December 9, 2025. Because this meeting focused mostly on [Monroe Avenue & Field Street | ONGOING](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force/incidents-associated-with-vagrant-individuals/monroe-avenue-and-field-street-or-ongoing) complete notes and a recording of the meeting are posted on that page. * In short, because this incident on Pinnacle Hill occurred on private property UMNA and neighbors agreed to reach out to those property owners for concerted action.
# Miscellaneous | 2024 | RESOLVED This page describes certain incidents that occurred in 2024 along with follow-up by neighbors and UMNA. *The information below includes descriptive language like "trespassing" that implies criminality. it's important to note that although words like "trespass" are used it is not necessarily the case that a law has been broken, or more likely, that a it can be proven in court. Add to this any practical considerations around accessing the police resources necessary to affect an arrest and then applying the criminal justice system to address any allegations.* *In no way should visitors of this page think the information contained here is comprehensive or complete. This page should be considered a point of entry. To plug into this effort please contact* [*umna@uppermonroe.org*](mailto:umna@uppermonroe.org)*.* ## Update December, 2024 All incidents described on this page have resolved. ## Incidents Timeline * The first incident occurred in July, 2024 in the Pinnacle Hill - Alliance Avenue - Pinnacle Road vicinity. A particular individual - we will refer to this person as "A" - exhibited undesirable behaviors reported by the victims included trespassing, verbal confrontation and threat of violence. The initial incident continued over the course of several days. * Police were called but, for complicated reasons, no arrest was made. Other services were requested by the victims without desired results. * "A" was known to the police as frequenting other nearby neighborhoods and exhibiting similar behaviors. There is some conjecture that "A" may currently be sleeping (in wooded areas) in or near Upper Monroe. * Since the initial incident "A" has returned to the vicinity more than once. * Over the course of time since the first incident "A" has established an unwelcomed routine around a particular block of houses and, as with the first incident, engaged in a range of similar undesirable behaviors. * To facilitate legal action one or more residents have taken out "orders of protection" against "A". Such orders may help transform the general notion of "trespass" into a violation that could result in an arrest. *** * A second individual - we will refer to him as "B" - appeared in the same vicinity around the 10th of August, 2024. * "B" was seen again in the vicinity on August 25th. On August 28th "B" was seen in the Swillburg neighborhood (in the vicinity of Otto Henderberg Square Park) just west of Upper Monroe. * "B" has exhibited more extreme behaviors as compared with "A". * The police were called. *** * A third incident that involved what two individuals occurred in the vicinity of Pinnacle Hill. These individuals were seen at a distance in the evening. As a result, It is unclear if either the individuals involved in this incidence are a party to either of the other incidents in the area. * The incident involved a small "campfire". Neighbors called 911 for police and fire attention. ## Actions The following actions were interwoven along the incidents timeline. * The victims reached out to UMNA to report the incident(s) and seek help * At least one representative of UMNA spoke with several of the victims. * The victims invited to & attended an UMNA meeting to discuss these situations. * An UMNA rep reached out to MC Collaborative (for those individuals that refuse housing) & PCHO (for those who are willing to go to housing, if it's available) about extending their Monroe Avenue walks all the way to Culver Road with a special emphasis on the area mentioned on this page. Both of these organizations work in a collaborate effort with the RPD on weekly outreach along Monroe Avenue. * An UMNA rep talked to staff at PCHO about the next group meeting to see if someone from Alliance can be on the agenda. * An UMNA rep reached out to the Police Citizen Interaction Committee (PCIC) at the City of Rochester's Southeast Neighborhood Service Center to make sure they are plugged in. * An UMNA rep informed [Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC)](/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) of these incidents for advice and to establish a potential emerging trend in Upper Monroe.
# Vehicle Break-ins and Vandalism | ONGOING Over the last few years and again more recently vehicles have been vandalized in the Upper Monroe area. On more than on occasion multiple vehicles have been affected during a single incident. *In no way should visitors of this page think the information contained here is comprehensive or complete. This page should be considered a point of entry. To plug into this effort please contact* [*umna@uppermonroe.org*](mailto:umna@uppermonroe.org)*.* ## Background Over the past few years many cars in the Rochester area (including Upper Monroe) have been vandalized. Hardly a week goes by without seeing a report of car break-ins and vandalism across the region - often in clusters. In the summer of 2023 dozens of cars were vandalized on one particular street in Upper Monroe on two occasions within a six week period. Sometimes a petty theft is involved. Sometimes the perpetrator is trying to steal the car and the vandalism is related to that act. But, often times, the vandalism just destructive act done for unknown reasons. #### You might ask: "What about the police?" When cars are vandalized the police are always called by the victim. Unfortunately, it's extremely rare to catch a vandal in the act. As a result, as a practical matter, all the police can do is provide a report. While a report is helpful in securing insurance money for a repair it doesn't address the myriad other impacts that typically result from the crime all of which end up contributing to a high emotional response and unbearable stress. #### What you can do right now
{% embed url="" %} *** ## Incident Timeline * Multiple events of vandalism took place in multiple locations around Upper Monroe in 2023 * A particular event took place on August 2, 2024 in the Pinnacle Road - Field Street - Crosman Terrace vicinity. The vehicle had two broken windows and some paint scratches from the glass. The victim contacted the police and received a report immediately and then reached out to UMNA for support. * Beginning late in 2024 and extending into early 2025 the incidents of vehicle vandalism jumped again. ## Actions * The victim was invited to an UMNA meeting to discuss the situation. * Neighbors gathered on [2024 September 7: Discussion of Public Safety in the Pinnacle Rd Area](/events-and-meetings/2024-past-events/2024-september-7-discussion-of-public-safety-in-the-pinnacle-rd-area)
{% file src="/files/pt0CviCpBICmnYmNqOpU" %} * The UMNA [Public Safety Task Force](/hot-topics/public-safety-task-force) was established as a result of this remarkable gathering. * This page was developed to track actions and report to the community. * UMNA engaged in a series of emails to continue the conversation. Ideas included initiating a PAC-TAC team for Upper Monroe. A petition and other ideas were also discussed. * After discussions we decided to hold an informal meeting to discussion ideas. * Two additional residents of Upper Monroe successfully completed the RPD's Citizen's Police Academy course late in 2024. * **AUDIO RECORDING** - Click on the file below to open and listen to an approximately 20 minute long audio recording from [a public meeting hosted by NBN6 at the Olmstead Lodge on September 9, 2024](https://mailchi.mp/0d8151249b22/nbn6-e-news-april-21-10331219?e=c082983582). {% file src="/files/aI9oHc0FsTdQsYLz24oJ" %} * An UMNA PAC-TAC team has emerged with the expectation that the group will begin when the weather breaks in April, 2025. The group hopes to expand quickly as their activity grows. * A community forum covering this topic and others in collaboration with the Emmanuel Baptist Church on Park Avenue (February, 2025). For information: [2025 February 3: Community Forum on Vehicle Vandalism/Theft, Homelessness & Other Concerns](/events-and-meetings/2025-past-events/2025-february-3-community-forum-on-vehicle-vandalism-theft-homelessness-and-other-concerns)
# Conflicts associated with a group of juveniles | 2024 | RESOLVED Recently a group of juveniles has exhibited undesirable behaviors & is suspected of criminal acts in the area from 7-11 to Luzerne to Rosedale & down Hinsdale putting them in conflict with residents. *In no way should visitors of this page think the information contained here is comprehensive or complete. This page should be considered a point of entry. To plug into this effort please contact* [*umna@uppermonroe.org*](mailto:umna@uppermonroe.org)*.* ## Background First, we will take a moment to address the terms we are using to describe the young individuals at the center of this conflict: young people, young individuals, perpetrators and juveniles. While the terms "young individuals" and "young people" as well as "children" and "minors" are all true they seem inadequate to task of understanding the context associated with these circumstances. Terms like "perpetrators" and "juveniles" seem better suited even if they carry negative connotations. In our opinion these descriptors offer a more accurate characterization while mindfully avoiding other, stronger and harsher words that risk dehumanizing those whose actions may be deplorable but who's humanity, developmental stage and legal status must be recognized and respected. All this is apart from the myriad legal, economic, social and familial influences out of their direct control that may profoundly affect their behavior. UMNA recognizes the intense emotional impacts these behaviors have on innocent, largely defenseless residents can result in some people using harsh language. Nevertheless, UMNA has a responsibility to do our best (and encourage others to do so as well) to use language that does not exacerbate the situation.
Expand this section to read the Google Dictionary definition of "juvenile". [**ju·ve·nile**](https://www.google.com/search?dictcorpus=en-US\&hl=en\&forcedict=juvenile\&q=define%20juvenile) ˈjo͞ovəˌnīl ˈjo͞ovən(ə)l adjective juvenile 1. of, for, or relating to young people. * childish; immature. * [childish](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [immature](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [puerile](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [infantile](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [babyish](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [jejune](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [inexperienced](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [callow](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [green](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [unsophisticated](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [naive](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [foolish](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [silly](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [stupid](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [asinine](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [sophomoric](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [wet behind the ears](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) * of or denoting a theatrical or film role representing a young person. * [young](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [teenage](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [teenaged](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [adolescent](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [junior](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [underage](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [pubescent](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [prepubescent](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) * relating to young birds or other animals. noun juvenile plural noun juveniles 1. a young person. * a person below the age at which ordinary criminal prosecution is possible (18 in most countries). * [young person](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [youngster](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [child](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [teenager](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [adolescent](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [minor](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [junior](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [boy](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [girl](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [schoolboy](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [schoolgirl](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) [kid](chrome-extension://mgijmajocgfcbeboacabfgobmjgjcoja/browser_action.html#) * an actor who plays juvenile roles. * a young bird or animal.
Expand this section to read the Google Dictionary definition of "perpetrator". noun: [**perpetrator**](https://www.google.com/search?q=define+perpetrator\&sca_esv=d8dc71a00e7da157\&hl=en\&ei=jnMjZ5W3EqOi0PEPj5iMgQ4\&ved=0ahUKEwiVtviPy7iJAxUjETQIHQ8MI-AQ4dUDCBA\&uact=5\&oq=define+perpetrator\&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiEmRlZmluZSBwZXJwZXRyYXRvcjIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzINEAAYgAQYsAMYQxiKBTINEAAYgAQYsAMYQxiKBUjEBVAAWABwAXgBkAEAmAEAoAEAqgEAuAEDyAEAmAIBoAIHmAMAiAYBkAYKkgcBMaAHAA\&sclient=gws-wiz-serp); plural noun: [**perpetrators**](https://www.google.com/search?q=define+perpetrator\&sca_esv=d8dc71a00e7da157\&hl=en\&ei=jnMjZ5W3EqOi0PEPj5iMgQ4\&ved=0ahUKEwiVtviPy7iJAxUjETQIHQ8MI-AQ4dUDCBA\&uact=5\&oq=define+perpetrator\&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiEmRlZmluZSBwZXJwZXRyYXRvcjIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzIKEAAYsAMY1gQYRzINEAAYgAQYsAMYQxiKBTINEAAYgAQYsAMYQxiKBUjEBVAAWABwAXgBkAEAmAEAoAEAqgEAuAEDyAEAmAIBoAIHmAMAiAYBkAYKkgcBMaAHAA\&sclient=gws-wiz-serp) 1. a person who carries out a harmful, illegal, or [immoral](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=d8dc71a00e7da157\&hl=en\&q=immoral\&si=ACC90nwUEXg6u2vxy-araGkF9MAxjvz-51DiKwgyIPKFGoAo6t_K3IggYVq1iGXGAIijsuep1L_25_-4kFeIgYi3DnWw0DmsK61oDF54UsiFAF7wj3HIvkw%3D\&expnd=1\&sa=X\&ved=2ahUKEwiVtviPy7iJAxUjETQIHQ8MI-AQyecJegQIOhAO) act.
Next, a quick reminder that problems that are easy to address won't end up in this section of the UMNA website. This is a very, very difficult and complex set of problems that combine undesirable and, at times, criminal actions that could escalate with disastrous consequences. *** **UMNA strongly urges all parties to use measured, non-inflammatory language.** **UMNA does NOT support any form of action or direct engagement. Doing so could result in greater risk of harm to all involved.** **PLEASE DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TAKE ANY EMFORCEMENT ACTION ON YOUR OWN INITIATIVE.** *** **LINK:** [County Executive Adam Bello Announces Juvenile Enhanced Diversion Stabilization (JEDS) Program To Address Increase In Teen And Juvenile Offenses.](https://www.monroecounty.gov/news-06-08-2023-juvenile-stabalization) *** ## Timeline During the summer of 2024 Upper Monroe neighbors identified a group of 3-5 juveniles (thought to be between 8 and 16 years of age) behaving badly with specific reports/allegations and video evidence of these undesirable activities in process. The reported activities have included repeated trespassing, harassment, threats/confrontations and even allegations of petty larceny and a robbery at a local retail establishment. It was determined that some or all of the perpetrators were residents of Upper Monroe. *The balance of this timeline is only somewhat chronological and not hardly comprehensive. Many of the actions and behaviors described below overlapped and developed over time in a variety of ways. Some activates/actions are not described for one reason or another. Still, we hope it will be helpful to provide a mostly-chronological, somewhat complete narrative...* Early in the process affected neighbors took a number of actions including addressing the juveniles directly (with little to no positive effect). In one instance a confrontation with the group of juveniles resulted leaving neighbors feeling physically threatened. Around the same time, neighbors began calling 911 and engaging with individual RPD officers and others higher up the command chain. Due to the age of the perpetrators, it became apparent legal action is severely restricted. As a result, in addition to other defensive actions taken by residents, video surveillance equipment was installed on residents' own private property. Around the same time a number of neighbors reached out to various agencies, organizations and institutions to invite support for the juveniles. In the face of extreme frustration and continuing incidents affected residents began alerting the broader community. This was done in direct conversations as well as using online resources like social media. UMNA was contacted late in the summer of 2024. Several of the affected residents were invited to an UMNA leadership meeting at TRATA restaurant on August 20, 2024. Their situation was discussed at length and UMNA joined their efforts to address the situation by facilitating and supporting opportunities to advocate for solutions. Over time, as the problems have persisted unabated and the number of affected residents has grown, the circle of community involvement has also grown. A kind of "community in distress" eventually emerged to support each other and join forces to seek solutions. Many of the affected neighbors have individually engaged a wide variety of resources in the community in search of answers. Some have spoken up in public spaces. Not everyone is willing or able to speak to such issues in public spaces, of course. In this case at least one affected resident has been raising his voice and sharing this story with all who will listen. He has spoken at large meetings as well as small. He has advocated with passion and urgency at every opportunity. Most recently, as a result of following up on a social media post with a notable local radio personality, he was featured on a local talk radio program. You can hear his interview below. This story continues to unfold moment by moment. ### **Listener discretion is advised.** Some of the language in this interview may be triggering. The situations described are deeply troubling. Although some of the behaviors have been captured on video and criminal behavior is alleged in the interview, *legal criminality* has not been established. In any case, the information may trigger a strong emotional response and/or an increased stress level in some listeners. The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association strongly endorses an non-violent, legal resolution to this situation. *** **UMNA strongly urges all parties to use measured, non-inflammatory language.** **UMNA does NOT support any form of action or direct engagement. Doing so could result in greater risk of harm to all involved.** **PLEASE DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TAKE ANY EMFORCEMENT ACTION ON YOUR OWN INITIATIVE.** {% embed url="" %} # Code Compliance "High Priority" Cases In 2023 UMNA began identifying "High Priority" code compliance cases for urgent action. UMNA recognizes the City of Rochester does not have the resources to address every code compliance case. In fact, given the need and the available resources, it's clear the code compliance area of City administration is dramatically understaffed/overburdened. As a result, in 2023 UMNA decided it was time to identify higher priority cases and apply focused pressure to address those concerns rather than attempt to compel action on every code compliance issue. To be clear, UMNA advocates for code compliance in all instances. Cases with "high priority" yield the greatest community benefit in exchange for the effort required to address the situation. ### What does UMNA consider when identifying a case? * How numerous, severe or extreme are the issues in a case? * How many residents are impacted by violations? * How long has the case been out of compliance? * Is there a group of properties near each other that might result efficiencies of effort/resources and result in greater positive impact when resolved? * Is there a single owner who has several properties in UM that might constitute a single case? * Is the case in a high visibility location? * To what extent does vacancy play a role in the case? Vacant properties are of particular concern. * Is the case located in close proximity to a vulnerable population, a school, a business, or a religious institution? ### Who decides which cases are on the list? * Residents may nominate a case at any time. * The UMNA board decides after consultation with neighbors and a review of the criteria. ### How many cases are on the list? * It varies all the time but not more than a handful at any moment. In addition, UMNA is undertaking a new set of tactics to help improve the condition of properties in the neighborhood.
# Case: Vacant Properties on Crosman Terrace In August, 2024 Several neighbors along Crosman Terrace invited UMNA to see four properties that have become vacant on the street and discuss ideas for addressing property code compliance concerns.
* 314 Crosman Terrace * 320 Crosman Terrace * 324 Crosman Terrace * 330 Crosman Terrace * 250 Crosman Terrace (N*ot adjacent to the other four but controlled by same owner and located in the same block as the others. Added to the list recently.*) All five properties are owned by the same entity: "South Wedge Properties, LLC". A cursory inspection from the public sidewalk reveals numerous code violations in plain view. This page is organized like a blog with the most recent stories at the top. Scroll down for past stories and background information. ### Update on December 17, 2025 - Consent agreement signed This morning we received a copy of the signed consent agreement. (This document supersedes notes posted on this page on December 5th.) See below. {% file src="/files/wTSNzG6AECmm922VXe4O" %} Neighbors took a close look at the document and found 314 Crosman Terrace was not mentioned in the agreement. UMNA immediately notified the city and asked for clarification on the status of 314 Crosman. ### Update on December 5, 2025 - Consent agreement imminent On Friday, December 5th Crosman Terrace neighbors, **Valerie McPherson** and **Judy Peer**, along with UMNA president, **Rome Celli**, returned to the Monroe County Hall of Justice and City Housing Court today to observe the next step in the City of Rochester's code violations case against South Wedge Holdings, LLC (SWH, LLC). Despite the passage of two weeks since the last court appearance the parties still had not come to terms on a final agreement to deal with the myriad code violations identified by the City of Rochester Code Enforcement team found on properties owned by SWH, LLC. The parties and their lawyers once again huddled for more than 45 minutes outside the courtroom while other cases were heard. These circumstances were observed by neighbors from a distance as we were not included in any of the discussions between the parties. Eventually, the parties concluded their negotiations and entered the courtroom. The case was called by **Judge Van White** not long after. When asked by **Judge White** City of Rochester counsel, **Mr. Michael Furlano**, outlined terms of the tentative agreement in open court. **Judge White** confirmed the outline with SWH, LLC's attorney, **Mr. Harvey Bunis**, and asked that the executed agreement be delivered to the court within a few days. Until the anticipated "consent agreement" (i.e., an agreement between the parties rather than a court imposed order) is provided to the court the full contents will not be known for certain. However, **Valerie** took notes that will give readers an idea of what to expect to be in the agreement: * SWH, LLC agrees to complete the City of Rochester vacant building registry for all vacant properties owned by SWH, LLC within 14 days; * SWH, LLC agrees to secure all vacant properties; * SWH, LLC agrees to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy for each of the following properties within 45 days: 250 Crosman Terrace (Upper Monroe), 105-113 Pinnacle Rd (Upper Monroe), 7 Roosevelt St (Upper Monroe), 17 Peck St and 45-47 Werner Pk (Upper Monroe); * SWH, LLC agrees to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy for each of the following properties one at a time on a monthly basis beginning on March 1, 2026: 214 Crosman Terrace, 320 Crosman Terrace, 324 Crosman Terrace and 330 Crosman Terrace; * SWH, LLC agrees to interior and exterior inspections of any/all properties listed above by the City of Rochester with 48 hours advance notice; * SWH, LLC agrees to obtain all necessary permits before performing work that requires permits. * Failure to comply with these terms triggers a fine of $100 per day on SWH, LLC; and * The disposition of past fines on SWH, LLC will be determined in the future based on compliance with these terms. ### Update on November 20, 2025
Upper Monroe neighbors (**Valery McPherson, Dale O’Dell, Fatima Razic, Judy Peer, Chris Stevens and Rome Celli**) attended a notable Rochester City Housing Court hearing presided over by **Judge Van White** last week. The proceeding was held on the first floor of the Monroe County Hall of Justice building on Exchange Street in downtown Rochester. The volunteer neighbor-group organized by UMNA gathered in Courtroom #3 that day to witness a case initiated by the City of Rochester against the owner of five vacant homes on Crosman Terrace, South Wedge Holdings, LLC. While short term property vacancy is not necessarily a code violation, these particular properties have numerous documented code violations related to the condition of the properties that have gone unaddressed. In addition, most of the properties have been vacant for an extended period of time. Neighbors have been advocating for stringent action for as long as the code violations have been apparent. Only recently has the City stepped up their code enforcement game on these properties. Midway through the court proceedings, while other Housing Court cases were being heard, attorneys representing the City of Rochester and the property owner stepped outside the courtroom with City Code Enforcement officials to hammer out an agreement that the parties and the court could accept and that would hold the property owner accountable. It so happened that **Mark Muoio**, another Upper Monroe neighbor and an attorney with deep experience in Housing Court matters, was present in the courtroom for professional reasons. He informally helped the assembled Upper Monroe neighbor-group understand the process and its implications. While the parties came to an agreement in principle that afternoon a formal agreement won’t be presented to the court until early in December. UMNA & neighbors expect to learn the contents of that agreement beforehand. The group plans to follow progress until all code violations are resolved and the properties are either reoccupied or otherwise sold. **Next court date: Friday, December 5th at 2:00 PM at the Monroe County Hall of Justice. This hearing is free and open to the public. Upper Monroe neighbors interested in this topic are encouraged to attend.** ### Update on October, 23, 2025
On Wednesday, October 22nd at 10:00 AM a delegation from Upper Monroe led by **Fatima Razic** and **Valerie McPherson** that included **Shae Hanford Rome Celli and John Capp** met with the City of Rochester's Southeast Quadrant Neighborhood Service Center (SE NSC) administrator, **John McMahon,** in a conference room at the SE NSC offices to get an update on the status of these properties and talk about next steps. **John** shared the official list of unresolved code violations for all of the vacant properties on Crosman Terrace. (See below.) Due to the long list of the violations and the accumulated fines he said the situation came to attention of the City of Rochester's law department and that a court case had been scheduled. The matter will be heard by a City Court Judge in Rochester Housing Court on November 20, 2025. If the court rules in the City's favor and the owner does not comply, the owner could face a contempt of court charge. {% file src="/files/nhfViVNS4pbDFK0nLCJE" %} {% file src="/files/fdiDsrG7bCfiYVTVGzPk" %} UMNA is now exploring what role, if any, community input might play in a Housing Court proceeding. If there is an opportunity to submit an impacts statement, UMNA will do so. In any event, one or more community representatives would be present at the hearing on November 20th. In addition, the group discussed a recent unsettling trespassing incident at one of the vacant properties and the potential safety hazards associated with those properties. Questions related to the soon-to-be-reviewed-and-approved new city zoning code (commonly known as the [Zoning Alignment Project](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/zoning-alignment-project-zap) or [ZAP](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/zoning-alignment-project-zap)) were not addressed at this meeting. The SE NSC is not a party to the development zoning codes. *** ### Update on October, 15, 2025 On Monday, October 13th **David Walsh, Fatima Razic, Oliver Pickford, Judy Peer, Kathryn O'Dell, Valerie McPherson, Shae Hanford and Rome Celli** met to review the current status of vacant homes on Crosman Terrace; learn about how anticipated changes to Rochester's Zoning Code (colloquially known as "ZAP") might affect those properties and plan our next steps. The formal discussion lasted for one hour (after which Fatima provided a *delicious* and *abundant* array of nibbles). What follows is a summary report: #### Updates * Not much, if any, improvement to the exteriors have been made by the owner since the meeting with City representatives at Valerie's house in March; * We believe all of the vacant houses have been officially registered with the city as "vacant"; * Trespassers were chased out of at least one of the vacant house by police. Since then some access points vulnerable to break-ins have been boarded up; * The City of Rochester has not fulfilled a promise to share an accounting of City enforcement actions; and * City representatives have verbally indicated enforcement has been taking place "behind the scenes" including involvement by the office of the Deputy Mayor. #### ZAP - [CLICK HERE FOR BACKGROUND INFORMATION ABOUT ZAP](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/zoning-alignment-project-zap) * The proposed new zoning code is expected to be reviewed by Rochester City Council later this fall (not before election day). Public hearings will be held. Council may make modifications before voting up/down sometime before the year's end; * Among other things, ZAP is informed by the City's long term plan (Vision 2034) and significant trends apparent today and anticipated over the foreseeable future such as climate change/migration, increased housing needs, an anticipated shift away from cars by younger residents. In short and with respect to vacant houses on Crosman, ZAP encourages EASIER development (FEWER rules for developers to follow), MORE density and requires LESS off-street parking. * While the new zoning district in the area where the vacant houses are located will be similar to what it is today it won't be the same and it will encourage development in a way that it has not been encouraged for the past 20+ years making the chances of redevelopment of the vacant house more likely. Some redevelopment outcomes may be desirable and some may be undesirable. As a result, neighbors will need to monitor the situation closely and be willing to actively engage at every stage. #### Immediate Next Steps * First, and foremost, it is very, VERY important for neighbors to dig in on ZAP right away! Neighbors - WE/YOU - will probably need to advocate for changes to ZAP in the near future. Numbers matter. This sort of thing cannot be delegated or put off. * Second, Fatima will lead a group of neighbors in a follow-up meeting with John McMahon at his office on Wednesday, October 22 at 10 AM. Valery and Rome have both agreed to go with Fatima. YOU are welcome to join in. If you are interested, please reply to this message. Thanks to everyone who took time to talk about this stubborn, frustrating situation. The topic isn't in any way "sexy". On it's own a discussion about zoning can be downright boring BUT when it's applied to a situation like this one, it's stimulating and interesting. We had a productive conversation with lots of great input from everyone. Enormous thanks to our host for providing a congenial location to meet and filling our bellies (well, at least mine) to capacity after the discussion! The host's warmth, generosity and leadership are greatly appreciated. *** ### Update on March 28, 2025
Attendees from the UM area included **Chris Stevens**, **Fatima Razic**, **Judy Peer**, **Valerie McPherson**, **Jason McCaffery**, **Dale O'Dell**, **Mary Charipar** and **Rome Celli**. Neighbors met in the living room of a private home in Upper Monroe near the site of four long-vacant homes on Crosman Terrace to discuss options & ideas for improving the situation with [John McMahon, Chief Administration of the City of Rochester Southeast Neighborhood Service Center (SE-NSC)](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.cityofrochester.gov/node/5636\&sa=D\&source=calendar\&usd=2\&usg=AOvVaw23bNtOT48LSOE_yBxvZyaf), and his deputy, Manuel Ortolaza. McMahon started with a detailed update on the status of these properties and outlined a new, more aggressive plan of action including escalating fines for code violations. He pledged to develop and share a dedicated spreadsheet with neighbors that will serve to inform our community as the new plan takes affect. UMNA rep, Rome Celli, shared research on the properties obtained from the City of Rochester website. In some cases the research showed outstanding violations have been recorded by the City code enforcement department. Neighbors peppered the city representatives with questions once the update was completed. There were a number of well founded concerns expressed and discussed in some detail. Attendees shared ideas that extended beyond what the SE-NSC is working on. Those ideas ranged in type from "carrot" to "stick" including: more research with departments at City Hall; engaging the Mayor's office for support and looking for other opportunities to influence a positive outcome from a variety of angles. After the City reps left neighbors dedicated about 30 minutes to discuss tactics and plans going forward. ### Action Steps - Fall, 2025 * [x] Identify these four properties as "High Priority" for action by UMNA * [x] Advocate for code enforcement on all four properties <[**LINK**](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/code-inspection-and-enforcement)> * [x] Notify the City of Rochester about the (vacant building) status of all four properties <[**Vacant Building Registry**](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/departments/neighborhood-and-business-development/code-inspection-and-enforcement)> * [x] Follow-up with the City in mid-October, 2024 on property owner compliance related to the report filed below on September 11, 2024 * [x] A group of concerned neighbors will meet to discuss current situation on Friday, **March 28, 2025**. [City of Rochester Neighborhood Service Center chief administrator, John McMahon](https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.cityofrochester.gov/node/5636\&sa=D\&source=calendar\&usd=2\&usg=AOvVaw23bNtOT48LSOE_yBxvZyaf), will be in attendance. ### Update on November 14, 2024 The following is an excerpt from an email sent to the president of UMNA, Rome Celli, from the City of Rochester's Southeast Neighborhood Service Center Administrator, John McMahon. > *"I checked out the 4 properties on Crosman Terrace and it was pretty alarming. These are now super high priority to me as they are perfect examples of what neighborhood preservation needs to address.* > > *​"I have talked to the Inspector, Anita and to Anne Wallace, Manager of Code Enforcement as well as Mike Furlano in the Law Department. I wanted Law to seek an abandonment action where the city takes the houses but they are not candidates due to the fact that they are being kept secure by the owner. If they come to a point where the city has to secure them, we might be able to go the abandonment route.* > > *​"For now, the plan is to step up code enforcement and fines to a point where repairing and occupying (or selling) the properties is the only option that makes financial sense.* > > *​"Three out of the four have been cited for failure to register with the vacant building registry and the fourth one will be. There was no open case for 320 but there is now and violations will be added this week. Thanks to Ms. McPherson for leading the effort and please share my contact information with her.​"* ### Update on September 11, 2024 * **314 Crosman** - The property was officially marked as VACANT by the City in April of this year. However, the owner has not yet registered the property as vacant and, therefore, has not paid the fee associated with keeping a property vacant. (The owner must register a vacant property voluntarily. The fee is $100/year if there is an intent to re-rent in the near term or $500/year if the owner does not intend to re-rent anytime in the foreseeable future. Failure to register voluntarily results in a penalty on top of the annual fee.) Notices calling for action by the owner went out by email and by US mail. The C of O is current and in force until the fall of 2026. This does not absolve the owner of responsibility to address new issues/violations. Numerous violations have been cited. No workplan has been established. If the owner files a workplan, the clock stops on fines but another clock starts on the workplan. Failure to adhere to the workplan results in fines. * **320 Crosman** - The property had NOT YET been marked as VACANT. Our calls have resulted in a work order to send out the code inspector and establish its status as a vacant property. This triggers an immediate exterior inspection to cite violations. (Apparently, such inspections took place at 314, 324, 330 hence the violations noted on those properties.) An interior inspection may result as well - depending on the owner's (lack of) responsiveness. Like 314, the C of O is current and in force until the fall of 2026 and, again, this fact does not absolve the owner of responsibility to address new issues/violations. No current violations because there hasn't yet been an inspection related to the property's current status (vacant). * **324 Crosman** - Similar status as 314 CROSMAN except this property was marked VACANT in May of this year. * **330 Crosman** - Similar status as 314 CROSMAN except this property was marked VACANT but the notes from this conversation weren't clear on the date.
# Case: Parking Lot - Code Compliance & Maintenance In 2022 an expanded parking lot was approved behind four buildings located in the 900 block of Monroe Ave. After more than a year the work is not up to code and there are issues with it's maintenance.
## Background and overview In 2022 the City of Rochester approved a plan to construct a 23-space ancillary parking lot at 17 and 19 Harwood St and a 19-space ancillary parking lot at 954 Monroe Av (42 spaces total) to serve the seven buildings at 17 and 19 Harwood St and 954, 962, 970, 976-982, 984-990 Monroe Avenue The applicant (the property owner) also owns seven buildings within 1,000 feet of the proposed ancillary parking lot. The proposed ancillary parking lot was intended to serve the residential uses at the principal buildings. The proposed work scope included the demolition of an existing garage, installation of catch basins for storm water management, resurfacing/restriping, walkway improvements, and screening. ### City Planning Commission Staff Report from April, 2022 {% file src="/files/MpCcxttIYQ5a79EFg9zz" %} ### Neighbor letters of concern from 2022 {% file src="/files/2Snl0B0LwX26yZm7Jhia" %} {% file src="/files/4IUhHh0ipEovWs6Ny8OM" %} ### Current concerns Most construction has been completed since the application was approved. Some elements that have not been completed as approved have resulted in negative impacts to adjacent property owners. in addition, some aspects of the care and maintenance of the lot have also created significant negative impacts. ## Action Steps * [ ] Impacted neighbors are meeting on **March 26, 2025** to discuss the situation and prepare an action plan to address concerns.
# Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC) The Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition plays a critical role in UMNA's multi-year plan to revitalize our section of Monroe Avenue through a coordinated effort and a mutual support network.
## MARC Mission Statement *"A coalition of residents, merchants, property owners, and community partners dedicated to revitalizing Monroe Ave through a holistic approach that will make the avenue a vibrant place to eat, live, play, and shop.”* ## Background After re-emerging from the COVID pandemic In 2023 several neighborhood association leaders representing groups located in proximity to Monroe Avenue met informally to talk about issues of concern that became manifest along the Avenue in recent years and opportunities for improvement. After a few discussions the group felt it needed support so they invited Mike Evans from the [South East Area Coalition (SEAC)](https://seacrochester.org/) to engage with the group and help guide development of the group's efforts. Over the same period of time the [Monroe Avenue Merchants Association (MAMA)](https://www.monroeavenue.com/), led by Elyssa Rossi, was re-emerging as a force to support business and improve Monroe Avenue. It so happened Mike Evans from [SEAC](https://seacrochester.org/) was a member of the [MAMA ](https://www.monroeavenue.com/)board of directors. MARC developed 2023 out of a common interest among neighbors and merchants to work together to reboot Monroe Avenue. Early in 2024 MARC adopted it's name and the mission statement noted above. Over time MARC meetings have grown to include local and state government representatives and related governmental entities, public interest entities, non-profits, individual businesses and other types of organizations. A subset of supporters play a sustained role in driving MARC's activities while others plug in on an ad hoc basis. ### MARC Steering Committee The MARC Steering Committee typically meets every other week to organize their efforts and plan initiatives to advance their goals. MARC meetings are listed on the UMNA public calendar along with other UMNA meetings & activities <[HERE](https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/embed?src=591d2cbdbf62fb898d885c250d56a120efc9210fdc49e9183a3cc09b8640fe8c@group.calendar.google.com\&ctz=America/New_York)>. * [Lock 66 Neighborhood Association](https://www.facebook.com/groups/493067406018979/) ([Ted Benedict](mailto:tedbenedict.voice@gmail.com)) * [Park Meigs Neighborhood Association](https://parkmeigs.org/) ([John Lembach](mailto:jembach86@rochester.rr.com)) * [Pearl Meigs Monroe Neighborhood Association](https://www.facebook.com/groups/pmmneighbors) ([Stephen Mokey](mailto:stephen.mokey@gmail.com)) * [Monroe Avenue Merchants Association](https://monroeavenue.com/) ([Jen Plunkett](mailto:aaronsally@aol.com)) * [Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association](https://www.uppermonroe.com/) ([Rome Celli](mailto:umna@uppermonroe.org)) * [Wadsworth Square Neighborhood Association](https://www.wadsworthsquare.com/) ([Dan McCabe](mailto:danieljgmccabe@gmail.com)) In addition to organizational leaders, MARC is supported by a variety of partners. In particular, The City of Rochester's [Southeast Quadrant Neighborhood Service Center](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/sensc/) has been deeply involved in supporting MARC's goals. ## Contact To communicate directly with MARC please write to .
# Monroe Avenue Community Mobilization The Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition will develop plans to revitalize Monroe Avenue by using input from the general public. ## UPDATE JANUARY, 2025 MARC has grown and developed substantially over the past 18 months of existence. As of January, 2025 MARC now has a Steering Committee and four Action Teams. Each of the action teams meets separately. * [Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC)](/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc)(Steering Committee) * [GlowMonroe | Beautification & Livability](/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc/monroe-avenue-community-mobilization/glowmonroe-or-beautification-and-livability) (Beautification & Livability Action Team) * ## Overview The recently formed [Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC)](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) launched its first major effort to engage residents, visitors, businesses and the community at large to understand the needs and hoped-for future of Monroe Avenue. ## Get involved! [2025 January 28: Beautification & Livability | MARC ACTION TEAM](/events-and-meetings/2025-past-events/2025-january-28-beautification-and-livability-or-marc-action-team) [2025 February 3: Economic Development | MARC ACTION TEAM](/events-and-meetings/2025-past-events/2025-february-3-economic-development-or-marc-action-team) [2025 February 5: Security & Public Safety | MARC ACTION TEAM](/events-and-meetings/2025-past-events/2025-february-5-security-and-public-safety-or-marc-action-team) ## Report: Community Meeting on December 2, 2024
Another sizable contingent of neighbors from the Monroe Avenue corridor and many other areas of Rochester gathered at The Lutheran Church Of The Incarnate Word on December 2nd. This time each participant was asked to join one of three groups: Beautification and Neighborhood Quality of Life; Crime and Public Safety; and Economic Development. Each sub-group was asked to generate more ideas and discuss them. As a result of this concerted effort more than 100 ideas were efficiently reviewed. There are two overarching principles at work that drive this effort: grassroots participation & positive efforts to move the community forward. In the weeks to come the [Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC)](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) steering committee will sift through the results and prepare for more work to be done by the community. [MARC](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) anticipates each of the three groups will meet separately by the end of January, 2025 to flesh out the next steps. The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association is a founding member of [MARC](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc). [MARC’s](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) work aligns with the [UMNA’s Multi-year Monroe Avenue Revitalization Plan](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/2024-umna-plans-and-budget/multi-year-monroe-avenue-revitalization-plan) *** ## Report: Community Meeting on October 29, 2024
It was standing-room-only on October 29th in the big meeting room of the Lutheran Church of the Incarnate Word at the community meeting to review a recent survey on the future of Monroe Avenue. Over 1,000 respondents participated in the survey over the summer. Neighbors and business owners spoke passionately on a range of topics citing current concerns and hopes for the future. [CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD AND READ A SUMMARY OF THE SURVEY RESULTS](https://seacrochester.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Monroe-Ave-Revitalization-Report-V3.pdf?). Following the presentation representatives of the [Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC)](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) transitioned into facilitation mode and invited comments as well as written submissions from attendees. Members of [MARC](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) took extensive notes and collected all the written input. A number of elected officials and their staff members were in the room. Representatives from the Mayor’s office and the Rochester Police Department were also present. The meeting was widely covered in local media. All interested individuals are invited to a follow-up work group-style meeting scheduled for Monday, December 2nd at 7:00 pm at the Lutheran Church of the Incarnate Word on the southwest corner of East Avenue and South Goodman Street. Small groupings of volunteers will review and digest all the information gathered to date and begin to develop an action plan. *** ## Timeline * Launch survey and generate community awareness and excitement about the effort at the [2024 June 20: Monroe Avenue Community Input Launch Party](/events-and-meetings/2024-past-events/2024-june-20-monroe-avenue-community-input-launch-party). * The survey remained open from June 20, 2024 until August 31, 2024. * **FINAL COUNT: 1,038 responses** * Tabulate and analyze the survey results early in the Fall of 2024. * Host a community meeting late in October, 2024 to report on the results of the survey and engage the community in a discussion about the future of Monroe Avenue. * Use the information to develop plans for Monroe Avenue as well as apply for grants to support those plans. This effort aligns with UMNA's [Multi-year Monroe Avenue Revitalization Plan](/work-plan-and-budget/multi-year-monroe-avenue-revitalization-plan). ## Contact To communicate directly with MARC please write to .
# GlowMonroe | Beautification & Livability This page describes work by MARC's Beautification & Livability Action Team known as "GlowMonroe". GlowMonroe focuses projects and programs along and adjacent to Monroe Avenue. # Adopt-A-Block Adopt-A-Block seeks to keep Monroe Avenue clean of miscellaneous debris by breaking the work down by individual blocks and cleaning those blocks regularly. ## Overview "Adopt-A-Block" activates neighbors on every street that crosses Monroe Ave. Each neighbor walks down to the corner and picks up litter along their ONE BLOCK section of Monroe Avenue. At the same time everyone can keep an eye on any larger items or overflowing city trash bins. Instead of mounting HUGE efforts a couple of times a year (and seeing trash pile up in between) neighbors each take a small section on a regular basis. *Simple & effective!*

The photo above illustrates how a this program looks along one small section of Monroe Ave. "Adopt-A-Block" will cover all of Monroe Avenue.

Each person will have an official "GlowMonroe Grabber" and a "GlowMonroe Bucket". [GET YOUR GLOWMONROE GEAR NOW](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAga0Y3FfIbpFGBuL9uIYVogfBEMyQcfBomdza_1jQQrxnIQ/viewform?usp=sharing\&ouid=110519966697179432844)
By working together we will keep our "Main Street" looking good! [CLICK TO GET STARTED NOW](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAga0Y3FfIbpFGBuL9uIYVogfBEMyQcfBomdza_1jQQrxnIQ/viewform?usp=sharing\&ouid=110519966697179432844) The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association is a founding member of [MARC](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc). [MARC’s](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) work aligns with the [UMNA’s Multi-year Monroe Avenue Revitalization Plan](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/2024-umna-plans-and-budget/multi-year-monroe-avenue-revitalization-plan) ## Contact To communicate directly with MARC please write to .
# GrowMonroe | Economic Development This page describes work undertaken by the MARC Economic Development Action Team now referred to as "GrowMonroe". From this page you will see links to various project pages. # Monroe Fresh Finds Community Garage Sale Monroe Fresh Finds Community Garage Sale provides neighbors with a monthly opportunity to during warm weather months to clean out and cash in on items no longer useful to them. ### Links to information about each of the sales is available below [2025 June 14: Monroe Fresh Finds Community Garage Sale](/events-and-meetings/2025-past-events/2025-june-14-monroe-fresh-finds-community-garage-sale) [2025 July 12: Monroe Fresh Finds Community Garage Sale](/events-and-meetings/2025-past-events/2025-july-12-monroe-fresh-finds-community-garage-sale) [2026 February 5: Meeting | Sidewalk Repairs Along Monroe Avenue](/events-and-meetings/2026-past-events/2026-february-5-meeting-or-sidewalk-repairs-along-monroe-avenue) [2025 September 13: Monroe Fresh Finds Community Garage Sale](/events-and-meetings/2025-past-events/2025-september-13-monroe-fresh-finds-community-garage-sale) The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association is a founding member of [MARC](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc). [MARC’s](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) work aligns with the [UMNA’s Multi-year Monroe Avenue Revitalization Plan](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/2024-umna-plans-and-budget/multi-year-monroe-avenue-revitalization-plan) ## Contact To communicate directly with MARC please write to .
# SafeMonroe | Public Safety & Crime This page describes work undertaken by the MARC Public Safety & Crime Action Team now referred to as "SafeMonroe". From this page you will see links to various project pages. The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association is a founding member of [MARC](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc). [MARC’s](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) work aligns with the [UMNA’s Multi-year Monroe Avenue Revitalization Plan](https://www.uppermonroe.com/hot-topics/2024-umna-plans-and-budget/multi-year-monroe-avenue-revitalization-plan) ## Contact To communicate directly with MARC please write to .
# Homelessness, poverty & vagrancy along the Monroe Avenue Corridor The Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition invited numerous non-profit organizations, the RPD and elected representatives to talk as a group on August 13, 2024. ## Background Homelessness, poverty and vagrancy have been present along and near the Monroe Avenue corridor for many years. Some say decades. These conditions are often associated with low level crime, panhandling, drug use, encampments and other undesirable circumstances and behaviors. Insufficient appropriate housing is a significant compounding factor but not the only factor. Mental heath is another factor that plays an important role. The issues are complicated and difficult to improve. The 2024 "[Point In Time](https://www.hudexchange.info/programs/hdx/pit-hic/#2024-pit-count-and-hic-guidance-and-training)" count (an annual grassroots headcount of the unhoused conducted across the country as well as in Rochester) revealed a notable uptick of unhoused individuals in our region. Resident and businesses have taken notice of the resulting impacts. In the spring of 2024 the [Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC)](/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) identified these areas for attention for a number of reasons including concern for the wellbeing of individuals affected by these conditions and a sense that business and resident frustration around undesirable behaviors could result in unfortunate incidences of conflict. As you might expect, MARC's overall goal of revitalizing Monroe Avenue is baked into the reasoning. To be clear, the City of Rochester along with the Rochester Police Department and a wide range of non-profit agencies have been working directly in the area over a long period of time and with some success. Under the circumstances, however, [MARC](/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) felt the need to invite agencies, organizations and elected officials to a group discussion to see if greater communication and coordinated efforts could lead to more effective programs. This group met on August 13, 2024. {% file src="/files/0dI7ipMB46GrKIPJ5hOR" %} ## Meeting on August 13, 2024
### Text of the thank you letter and notes from the meeting *Please scroll on the embedded document below to see subsequent pages.* {% embed url="" %} ## MARC Contact Information To communicate directly with MARC please write to .
# Commercial Vacancies at Monroe Avenue & South Goodman Street This page focuses on the current and potential future commercial vacancies at and near the intersection of Monroe Avenue & South Goodman Street. ## Background Late in 2024 the community learned about Walgreen's intent to close it's retail operation on Monroe Avenue at the corner of South Goodman Street. Around the same time members of the [Monroe Avenue Revitalization Coalition (MARC)](/hot-topics/monroe-avenue-revitalization-coalition-marc) become aware of other potential commercial vacancies near Walgreens. Alarm bells began to ring around the MARC table. The prospect of multiple commercial vacancies at this important intersection threaten the economic viability of that section of Monroe Avenue. It's important to remember, commercial vacancies *also* present opportunities for new growth. For example, products and services currently missing along the Monroe Avenue corridor might find a how in these locations. Members of MARC believe a PROACTIVE approach to filling current and potential future vacancies is essential. With this in mind members of MARC reached out to Mayor Evans with a request to take action now, before another vacancy is apparent. All local and state officials were copied in on this letter. ### Copy of of the letter urging immediate action sent to Mayor Malik Evans: *Please scroll on the embedded document below to see subsequent pages.* {% embed url="" %} ## MARC Contact Information To communicate directly with MARC please write to .
# Block Parties This program is funded in part through an Neighbors In Action (NIA) grant facilitated by the City of Rochester.
## Program Description This year UMNA identified a goal to encourage individual blocks, streets or sections of streets in Upper Monroe to build their part of the community by hosting their own mini-event. The grant would be used to support that goal by encouraging participation and purchasing food and related supplies on an as needed basis. UMNA expects 3-5 such “block” events this season. [Click here if you have trouble using the form below.](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScx_qVLA5POWDFYH8TOJl0tx5p5Z60kPbqvdGbbxGO4aBFyKg/viewform?usp=sharing\&ouid=110519966697179432844) {% embed url="" %} ***
## About Neighbors In Action (NIA) Neighbors In Action (NIA) was [launched by the City of Rochester in September 2024](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/news/city-launches-neighbors-action-nia-community-engagement-program). In January 2025, the City was [joined by partners](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/news/mayor-evans-introduces-partners-citys-neighbors-action-nia-effort) [Rochester Area Community Foundation](https://www.racf.org/) and [ESL Federal Credit Union](https://www.esl.org/) to help fund and administer the program. NIA, pronounced "NEE-uh," offers small grants, up to $10,000 each, empowering residents to come together and take purposeful action toward strengthening and improving their neighborhoods. The initiative is based on Neighbors Building Neighborhoods (NBN), begun in 1996 by former Rochester Mayor William A. Johnson Jr. NBN was recognized nationally as a model for government and civic partnerships that inspired and supported hundreds of projects across the city that ranged from beautification initiatives to enhanced public safety. [Latest NIA news](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/search?search_api_fulltext=NIA\&bundle=2\&sort_bef_combine=search_api_relevance_DESC\&f%5B0%5D=type%3Aprovus_news)
# Zoning Alignment Project (ZAP) This page provides information about background information about the City of Rochester's efforts to update its zoning code. Subsequent pages describe the process as it moves towards completion ## Background about ZAP The City’s last comprehensive look at its Zoning Code took place in 2003. Since then, the City has changed; new residents, new businesses, new priorities, emerging trends, and a new vision for the future necessitate a comprehensive look at the City’s development regulations. This is an important task to allow for implementation of the City’s [Rochester 2034 Comprehensive Plan](https://rochester2034.com/) – its vision – as many of the zoning district regulations currently in place may not relate to the current built environment, creating nonconformities, or may not allow for certain forms of development that the community has indicated that it desires. The City of Rochester is currently in the process of update its Zoning Code. The process began before the pandemic with the first iteration presented for public comment in 2020/2021 and a subsequent iteration in 2021/2022. The third iteration is due late in 2023. The information provided below and to date represents a DRAFT. The final version is expected in 2024. ### Additional pages on ZAP [ZAP Community Engagement Through January, 2024](/hot-topics/zoning-alignment-project-zap/zap-community-engagement-through-january-2024) [ZAP Final Phase](/hot-topics/zoning-alignment-project-zap/zap-final-phase) ### A quick overview of ZAP presented by the City of Rochester (2+ minutes long) {% embed url="" %} ### A more detailed review of ZAP presented by the City of Rochester (1+ hour long) {% embed url="" %} Presented by the City of Rochester on October 18, 2323 {% endembed %} *** ## ZAP Links & Info * **DOCUMENT:** [ A summary of public outreach since the draft launch, an overview of the comments received, what the ZAP team is currently working on, and a remaining process summary and projected timeframe.](https://rochesterzap.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CPC-Report-about-comments-received-and-strategy-for-responding.pdf) Posted February 26, 2024. * **WEBSITE:** [Rochester 2034 Comprehensive Plan](https://rochester2034.com/). This plan and the supporting research drives much of the [Zoning Alignment Project (ZAP)](https://rochesterzap.com/). * **WEBSITE:** [Zoning Alignment Project (ZAP) | City of Rochester](https://rochesterzap.com/). This is the official website that describes and tracks ZAP. * **WEBPAGE:** [Draft Zoning Map](https://maps.cityofrochester.gov/portal/apps/storymaps/stories/564a6723a7a041f583ac8604e888b480). This map allows users to "swipe" and compare the current zoning with the PROPOSED zoning. You will be able to see the PROPOSED new zoning districts along with a brief description of what each district allows. * **WEBPAGE:** [ **DRAFT** Use Standards and Definitions](https://rochesterzap.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Roc-A13-UseStds-Feb-2022.pdf) * **WEBPAGE:** [**DRAFT** Use Table and Use Permissions](https://rochesterzap.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Roc-A3-UseMatrix-Feb-Draft.pdf) * **DOCUMENT:** [**DRAFT** Use Code Table (compares current and proposed)](https://rochesterzap.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/2003-Use-Table.pdf) * **WEBPAGE:** [New York State SEQR process described](https://www.dec.ny.gov/permits/6189.html) * **DOCUMENT**: [Final Scope for Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oGtcxziQRKsVf1ZR3yKoToP_HIUX7MA4/edit?usp=sharing\&ouid=110519966697179432844\&rtpof=true\&sd=true) (added July 11, 2023) * **DOCUMENT:** [ZAP presentation to Rochester City Council on July 20, 2023](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1gquzk1mA2Qleu0h6-_qlX0U7Qs9JmojU8kLW4-I8SBk/edit?usp=sharing) (notes provided by Bob Thompson, president of Highland Park Neighborhood Association). PowerPoint slides that accompanied the presentation to City Council. (See below.)
## 2022-2023 DRAFT of the new zoning map proposed for Upper Monroe

DRAFT Proposed New Zoning in Upper Monroe

## Zoning Categories Proposed for Upper Monroe *The categories proposed for Upper Monroe as well as the definitions of each category are in DRAFT form.* {% file src="/files/CsAXiCfL8uqxDNENTZxg" %} {% file src="/files/pjyeNC8m2nm4xFh93D2G" %} {% file src="/files/wla9akG1zyHhiAoXEBWJ" %} {% file src="/files/HKxamrRrcoIQs4vaQS68" %} {% file src="/files/DALqrivjWXODPD7XCZGu" %} ## Related Documents {% file src="/files/TxhZ3y1HzXHWhidLLw0f" %} {% file src="/files/i5bEVxtPLTpiALih20jB" %} {% file src="/files/k99AVMcUFT163EKJFkM6" %}
# ZAP Community Engagement Through January, 2024 This page provides information about the UMNA ZAP Workgroup established to facilitate Upper Monroe area residents' engagement with the City efforts to update its zoning code through early 2024. If you haven't already reviewed the first page in this section, we strongly recommend you do so [Zoning Alignment Project (ZAP)](/hot-topics/zoning-alignment-project-zap) ### Click below for the next page on this topic [ZAP Final Phase](/hot-topics/zoning-alignment-project-zap/zap-final-phase) *** ## UMNA's Zoning Alignment Project (ZAP) Workgroup The UMNA ZAP workgroup was established in May, 2023. The first meeting took place in June, 2023. UMNA ZAP Workgroup members: **Jeanne Weber** (Alliance Avenue); **Duane Basch** (Rosedale Street); **Patrick Berl** (Alliance Avenue); **Melanie Berl** (Alliance Avenue); **Kit Miller** (Hinsdale Street); and **Rome Celli** (Werner Park). Other neighbors (most notably **Tim Guyot** from Alliance Avenue) have participated in Workgroup meetings at various times. Dozens of other neighbors participated at city sponsored programs and at the UMNA special meeting on ZAP on January 13, 2024. Most recently, the Workgroup prepared & submitted a summary of opinions on ZAP (from Upper Monroe residents who engaged with UMNA on the issue) to the City of Rochester. See below. *** ### Below you will find comments submitted by UMNA to the City of Rochester regarding ZAP on January 31, 2024 {% embed url="" %} {% file src="/files/090DiMEgYVkZZ3d3HoTN" %} Click on this link to download the document {% endfile %} *** ## Information about UMNA meetings related to ZAP The most recent meetings are listed at the top. {% file src="/files/gZbUSnrgRbhDSsiZOuak" %} Notes: ZAP Workgroup Meeting on January 23, 2023 {% endfile %} {% file src="/files/1uhH1DKbYeyP7UW7uFXv" %} Meeting notes from a special meeting dedicated to ZAP on January 13, 2024 {% endfile %}

A large group of neighbors came out on a cold winter afternoon to talk about zoning and help shape the future of their neighborhood.

Duane Basch from Rosedale Street presents on building height allowances under the proposed new zoning code.

Jeanne Weber from Alliance Avenue presents on parking related matters under the proposed new zoning code.

Neighbors shared their views on a range of issues. A rich and respectful discussion resulted.

{% file src="/files/IpHp3qdsK6So5Tw8odLX" %} Notes: ZAP Workgroup Meeting on November 2, 2023 {% endfile %} {% file src="/files/JVc3nfGS95img0XI6DiV" %} Notes: ZAP Workgroup Meeting on August 28, 2023 {% endfile %} {% file src="/files/Bcb9yJrgBKHudEcmIQAy" %} Notes: ZAP Workgroup Meeting on August 2, 2023 {% endfile %} {% file src="/files/pOpkDfMHfYFae40JIkDd" %} Notes: ZAP Workgroup Meeting on June 12, 2023 {% endfile %} *** #### Radio interview: [WXXI AM1370 Connections - Recorded in the afternoon on November 29, 2023- Click here to listen](https://www.wxxinews.org/show/connections/2023-11-29/zoning-101-how-communities-discuss-visions-for-the-future) #### City of Rochester's public information meeting held on Wednesday, November 29, 2023 held at the Rundel Memorial Library.

Taken at a City of Rochester public presentation of the Zoning Alignment Project on Wednesday, November 29th at 6:30pm at the Rundel Memorial Library

# ZAP Final Phase This page provides information about what is expected to be the final phase of ZAP. The City's ZAP team will present a "final" draft for review and then it go before City Council for final approval. If you haven't already reviewed the first two pages in this section, we strongly recommend you do so [Zoning Alignment Project (ZAP)](/hot-topics/zoning-alignment-project-zap) [ZAP Community Engagement Through January, 2024](/hot-topics/zoning-alignment-project-zap/zap-community-engagement-through-january-2024) ## Update July, 2025 Sources inside Rochester City Hall have indicated the "final" version of what may become Rochester's new zoning code will be released in November. In layperson's terms UMNA understands the next steps are expected to be: * Release of the proposed "final" version of Rochester's new zoning code * Public hearings on held on the proposed new zoning code by Rochester City Council * Rochester City Council will deliberate on the proposed new zoning code. Council may or may not amend or otherwise influence the proposed new zoning code. * Rochester City Council will eventually vote on the "final-final" version - the version they will have had a hand in developing. * If Rochester City Council votes to approve the new zoning code, the new zoning code will be implemented Concerns around scant public awareness and input into the proposed new zoning code and about anticipated changes embedded in the proposed new zoning code have stimulated new efforts to understand and influence the outcome.
*** What next on [ZAP](https://rochesterzap.com/)? * [x] The City of Rochester’s ZAP team will review comments submitted by all interested parties and prepare a newly revised edition of the proposed zoning code. (Beginning February 1, 2024) * [x] The City of Rochester’s ZAP team will release the "Comment Disposition Recommendations Report" that includes all written comments submitted by the interested parties. SEE BELOW. Rochester Environmental Commission Comment Disposition Recommendations Report Released June 3, 2024 below. Scroll down to see additional pages. This file may be downloaded for easier viewing & searching. ## Download the report to your computer {% file src="/files/avouMqisFnQdmkThG6sz" %} ## Review the report online {% embed url="" %} * [ ] The newly revised proposed “final draft” of the zoning code will be released sometime later in this year. * [ ] Rochester City Council will then hold public hearings on the “final draft” of the zoning code. * [ ] Rochester City Council will vote on the “final draft” of the zoning code. * [ ] When a final version of the zoning code is approved by the City, the new zoning code will be implemented. This may happen as early as this year but many people think it may happen in 2025. ***
# A Public Utility Company for Rochester This page will follow the Upper Monroe neighborhood's advocacy around the effort establishing a publicly owned utility company in Rochester. ## Background Establishing a public utility company in Rochester has long been discussed in the Upper Monroe neighborhood and around town. The topic was covered in detail at [the UMNA summer general meeting on June 22, 2025](https://www.uppermonroe.com/events-and-meetings/current-year-past-events/2025-june-22-umna-general-meeting). Meeting attendees got a solid background behind the push for a public utility in our area. RGE's past performance was discussed along with how a private utility company compares to a public utility. In addition, the panel described examples from other communities that have already adopted a public utility. Finally, the group heard where the effort currently stands and what comes next in the process. An informal assessment at the meeting revealed broad support from residents for a publicly owned utility company. Based on the community's interests, the UMNA leadership team took up the question of officially endorsing the idea and thereby opening the door to advocacy. *** ## UPDATE: August, 2025 After careful consideration and discussion on August 17, 2025 [the UMNA leadership team](/contact) approved the following position: *"The Upper Monroe Neighborhood Association supports efforts to pursue legal and responsible options to convert from a privately owned & operated utility company (Rochester Gas & Electric) to a yet-to-be-created publicly owned & operated utility company."\** \* This resolution authorizes UMNA to act alone and in coalition with others who seek a similar outcome. In addition, the UMNA president and anyone else the UMNA president appoints are authorized to help advance this goal. *** ## **Recent published reports on this topic** WXXI News posted July 1, 2025 - [Double-digit rate hikes could be on the horizon for RG\&E and NYSEG customers](https://www.wxxinews.org/local-news/2025-07-01/double-digit-rate-hikes-could-be-on-the-horizon-for-rg-e-and-nyseg-customers) by Brian Sharp The Rochester Beacon posted June 20, 2025 - [RG\&E shows up when it matters most](https://rochesterbeacon.com/2025/06/20/rge-shows-up-when-it-matters-most/) by Patrick Fox The Rochester Beacon posted June 17, 2025 - [How RG\&E and the PSC are failing us](https://rochesterbeacon.com/2025/06/17/how-rge-and-the-psc-are-failing-us/) by Mitch Gruber and Susan Hughes-Smith WXXI News posted June 13, 2025 - [RG\&E, NYSEG get new presidents to bolster local leadership](https://www.wxxinews.org/local-news/2025-06-13/rg-e-nyseg-get-new-presidents-to-bolster-local-leadership) by Brian Sharp WHEC RochesterFirst posted June 12, 2025 - [RG\&E, NYSEG penalized $20 million by NYS for failing to meet customer service metrics](https://www.rochesterfirst.com/rochester-gas-and-electric/rge-nyseg-penalized-20-million-by-nys-for-failing-to-meet-customer-service-metrics/) by Jim Tortora, Ryan Hermenet WXXI AM1370 - Connections with Evan Dawson posted May 29, 2025: [RGE responds to the audit.](https://youtu.be/3jwdY6nx6dY) WXXI AM1370 - [Audit points to RG\&E, NYSEG's lack of local control and focus as being at the root of problems](https://www.wxxinews.org/local-news/2025-05-21/audit-points-to-rg-e-nysegs-lack-of-local-control-and-focus-as-being-at-the-root-of-problems) by Brian Sharp News10NBC posted May 19, 2025: [Audit reveals potential violations, prolonged estimated meter readings at RG\&E/NYSEG following News10NBC investigations](https://www.whec.com/top-news/audit-reveals-potential-violations-prolonged-estimated-meter-readings-at-rge-nyseg-following-news10nbc-investigations/) by Jennifer Lewke
## [CLICK HERE TO EXPRESS YOUR OPINION ON THIS MATTER TO THE UPPER MONROE NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATION](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfeHfnPlAxzq9owOy0Hs1Ski5qAh3ocxxGkHBrfgyBpU1GKxw/viewform?usp=header)
# Cobbs Hill Village Redevelopment The redevelopment of Cobbs Hill Village in Cobbs Hill Park is an ongoing, multi-year project with notable impacts. This page is designed to help neighbors stay updated. ## Background Cobbs Hill Village is a low cost senior housing project located inside [Hills & Parks](/about-the-neighborhood/hills-and-parks#cobbs-hill-park) dating back to when WWII era prisoner-of-war housing was converted to low-cost senior housing in the 1950s. Beginning about 2014 the non-profit manager/developer of Cobbs Hill Village began planning to demolish the current buildings and redevelop on the site. The effort was highly controversial and eventually wound up being decided in the NYS Supreme Court in favor of the developer after the Rochester City Council & Mayor both approved the redevelopment plan. The phased re-development began with partial demolition of certain buildings on the site in the Spring of 2023. Construction will continue for three years or so according to published reports of the plan. Learn more by following the links below the photos. ## Photos & Background The historic photos below were found on public websites:
Historic photo of POW housing - Circa 1940s

Prisoner of War camp at Cobbs Hill in 1942

Historic photo of POW housing - Circa 1940s

Interior shot of POW camp

Historic photo of POW housing - Circa 1940s

Lake Riley and the Lodge circa 1940s

View of Cobbs Hill looking west circa 1956

Democrat & Chronicle press clippings from the 1950s:
#### News report from April 4, 2017: {% embed url="" %} ## Spring, 2023 The photos below were captured since redevelopment began in the spring of 2023 by longtime tenant in Cobbs Hill Village, Lee Sengbusch.
Photo of the Cobbs Hill Village redevelopment - May, 2023

Roots cut near "protected" (per the development agreement) trees.

Photo of the Cobbs Hill Village redevelopment - May, 2023

Large oil tank discovered, excavated pm site.

Photo of the Cobbs Hill Village redevelopment - May, 2023
Photo of the Cobbs Hill Village redevelopment - May, 2023

Trucks removed contaminated soil & filled with replacement soil.

Photo of the Cobbs Hill Village redevelopment - May, 2023
Photo of the Cobbs Hill Village redevelopment - May, 2023

First cement is delivered through a remarkably long hose.

Photo of the Cobbs Hill Village redevelopment - May, 2023

A new sign was added to the fence surrounding the project noting the group that lent the last 10% of the project that the State could not.

## Additional Resources * **ARTICLE:** [A new village at Cobbs Hill | By JACOB SCHERMERHORN | June 1, 2023 | Rochester Beacon](https://rochesterbeacon.com/2023/06/01/a-new-village-at-cobbs-hill/). This article provides information about the historical background as well as the current status of the development including the expected construction schedule through 2025 or so. * **ARTICLE:** [Rochester Management re-creating Cobbs Hill Village](https://rbj.net/2023/05/31/rochester-management-re-creating-cobbs-hill-village/)[ | By Kevin Oklobzija | May 31, 2023 | Rochester Business Journal](https://rbj.net/2023/05/31/rochester-management-re-creating-cobbs-hill-village/) * **WEBSITE:** [The Cobbs Hill Village Project | Rochester Management](https://www.housingupstate.org/index.php). This is the developer's website. You will find additional links and other resources on their "Documents & Downloads" page. * **WEBPAGE:** [Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Fourth Department, New York | MATTER OF COALITION FOR HILL v. CITY OF ROCHESTER | Decided: May 07, 2021](https://www.leagle.com/decision/innyco20210507341). This is the final decision related to the lawsuit to prevent the redevelopment of Cobbs Hill Village. * **GOFUNDME:** [The Fight to Preserve Cobbs Hill Village and Park | Coalition for Cobbs Hill](https://www.gofundme.com/f/save-affordable-housingsave-cobb039s-hill-park) * **ARTICLE:** [Cobbs Hill neighbors, tenants sue to block redevelopment | By Brian Sharp | May 9, 2018 | Democrat and Chronicle](https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2018/05/09/cobbs-hill-village-tenants-neighbors-sue-block-redevelopment/594620002/) * **ARTICLE:** [Judge dismisses Cobbs Hill Village suits | By Tim Louis Macaluso | May 03, 2019 | City Newspaper](https://www.roccitynews.com/news-opinion/judge-dismisses-cobbs-hill-village-suits-10237953) * **DOCUMENT:** [Tree Preservation at 645 Norris Dr. Rochester, NY, Cobbs Hill village Project | By Dan J. Glading | November 13, 2O17](https://rochesterbeacon.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Urban-Forest-Diagnostics.pdf). This letter by a consultant for the developer offers the author's opinion about the impacts of development on nearby notable mature trees
# Care Of Our Green Streetscape The trees & gardens located between our streets and our sidewalks are highly valued. This page is designed to provide resources and organize support for the health of our green streetscape. ## Background **WEBSITE LINK:** [City of Rochester Forestry Division - Resources - Home Page](https://maps.cityofrochester.gov/portal/apps/experiencebuilder/experience/?id=7d4d52a6f28a44d4a32e315d0c4d665d\&page=Page-1\&views=Services-Overview) In recent years neighbors have noticed the loss of "street trees" in Upper Monroe. Some of those trees have been replaced with new trees. This is a normal cycle. However, and the appearance of unsightly tree stumps on a number of streets in Upper Monroe Interest in this issue has mounted as the City of Rochester began developing an Urban Forest Master Plan which includes trees located along our streets and in our parks. The update process has included a number of community input meetings. As neighbors learned more about they began to think more deeply about the missing street trees and brainstorm ideas about how to support our trees and mitigate loses. **ARTICLE LINK:** [Rochester adopts new urban forest master plan](https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/local/2024/07/29/rochester-adopts-new-urban-forest-master-plan/74545191007/) published in the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle on July 29, 2024 **ARTICLE LINK:** [Rochester’s trees are celebrated, but not everyone gets to have their time in the shade](https://www.democratandchronicle.com/in-depth/news/2022/04/05/rochester-urban-tree-canopy-reflects-deep-racial-and-social-divisions/9357541002/) by [Justin Murphy](https://www.democratandchronicle.com/staff/2647405001/justin-murphy/) published in the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle on Apr. 9, 2022 # Programs These programs have been developed by the UMNA leadership team out of needs identified by the community. # Fire Extinguisher Giveaway This program is funded in part through an Neighbors In Action (NIA) grant facilitated by the City of Rochester. A discount on the equipment was provided by Mayer Paint & Hardware. ## Program Description UMNA will distribute up to 25 emergency home fire extinguishers to the senior citizens and tenants located in the Upper Monroe neighborhood area. <[MAP LINK](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1B2Ab7F53Ft4Yd7ELxpo9uRGZU3CR-Cc\&usp=sharing)> The intended beneficiaries of this program don’t always have the time or money to obtain a home fire extinguisher that meets current safety regulations. Many times extinguishers that have long expired are present but it’s not clear they will work or work safely when the moment of crisis arises. UMNA will partner with the RFD to help identify those in need of this program, raise awareness of the importance of home fire extinguishers and provide guidance for their care and use. ***
## About Neighbors In Action (NIA) Neighbors In Action (NIA) was [launched by the City of Rochester in September 2024](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/news/city-launches-neighbors-action-nia-community-engagement-program). In January 2025, the City was [joined by partners](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/news/mayor-evans-introduces-partners-citys-neighbors-action-nia-effort) [Rochester Area Community Foundation](https://www.racf.org/) and [ESL Federal Credit Union](https://www.esl.org/) to help fund and administer the program. NIA, pronounced "NEE-uh," offers small grants, up to $10,000 each, empowering residents to come together and take purposeful action toward strengthening and improving their neighborhoods. The initiative is based on Neighbors Building Neighborhoods (NBN), begun in 1996 by former Rochester Mayor William A. Johnson Jr. NBN was recognized nationally as a model for government and civic partnerships that inspired and supported hundreds of projects across the city that ranged from beautification initiatives to enhanced public safety. [Latest NIA news](https://www.cityofrochester.gov/search?search_api_fulltext=NIA\&bundle=2\&sort_bef_combine=search_api_relevance_DESC\&f%5B0%5D=type%3Aprovus_news) ***
UMNA is grateful to Mayer Paint and Hardware for providing a discount on the 25 fire extinguishers.
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