Auburn Business Improvement District Executive Director Jesse Kline joined host Guy Cosentino on Beyond the Front Page to discuss downtown redevelopment, new businesses, and upcoming events aimed at keeping the city’s core vibrant heading into the winter season.
Kline, who became the BID’s permanent executive director in July, said the organization is rebranding under its legal name — the “Downtown Auburn Partnership” — to better reflect its collaborative role. “Partnership is more representational for the approach that we want in working with our stakeholders,” she said.
Downtown development picking up pace
Kline highlighted major redevelopment projects underway in and around Genesee Street. Washington Street Partners, a Syracuse-based developer behind Seminary Commons, is redeveloping the former Citizen building at 25 Dill Street. Two tenants have already signed on — a Mexican restaurant and another regional eatery — with construction expected to continue into next summer. Plans also include a “maker space” and artisan market modeled after Syracuse’s Salt City Market.
The former Key Bank building, now known as The Atrium on Genesee, is seeing new life with the openings of Foxy’s Waxing and Beauty and Community Broadband Network. A grand opening event will be held November 14 with live music, art exhibits, and tours. Kline said maintaining active storefronts is critical: “Retail, retail, retail — that’s our biggest need downtown.”
New small businesses are also emerging on East Genesee Street, including Boatin Chiropractic, a pet grooming studio, and Macy’s Café, a breakfast and coffee spot set to open soon.
Events and attractions return downtown
Kline previewed several fall and winter events, including Alter Egos, a downtown fashion show taking place November 1 at Auburn Public Theater’s new Owasco Room event space. The show will feature local designers, drag performances, tarot readings, and vending tables. Tickets are $30 and expected to sell out. “It’s a fun, creative showcase for regional talent,” she said.
Seasonal storefront decorating contests have also returned, with artists painting fall and Halloween scenes across downtown windows. The BID plans to continue seasonal displays through winter and spring to keep storefronts visually engaging.
Kline confirmed the Flower Power beautification program — which uses locally made BowMear self-watering planters — will return in 2026 after record volunteer turnout and statewide recognition for the Auburn-made product. “It was a huge success,” she said. “Downtown’s never looked better.”
Downtown’s future and key challenges
Kline addressed concerns about the loss of some large-scale downtown events, like TomatoFest and Majorpalooza, which have relocated or been discontinued. She said the partnership is focused on supporting businesses directly affected by large gatherings and planning new, manageable attractions — including a proposed “CrowFest” celebrating Auburn’s large crow population.
She also emphasized the importance of keeping county government offices downtown, including those at 160 Genesee Street. “The accessibility for their clients and patrons is key,” she said. “It makes sense financially and for the vitality of the business district.”
As Auburn heads into the holiday season, Kline said BID’s mission remains clear: collaboration, creativity, and consistency. “We have to stay focused on what makes downtown work — local business, art, and community connection.”
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