N※N

Old Brick Reshaping Central New York with Mixed-Use Communities

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. central-new-york-with-mixed-use-communities.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Friday, February 27th 2026 at 5:34 GMT by WNYT NewsChannel 13
      Locales: New York, UNITED STATES

SYRACUSE, N.Y. - Old Brick, a Syracuse-based commercial real estate developer, is rapidly reshaping the landscape of Central New York, moving beyond simple property acquisition to focus on the creation of vibrant, mixed-use communities. Recent acquisitions in DeWitt and Camillus, coupled with a significant new project on East Genesee Street, signal the company's ambitious growth and a strategic response to evolving consumer preferences.

Founded on the principle of fostering local connection, Old Brick specializes in mixed-use developments - projects that seamlessly integrate residential, retail, and office spaces. This approach isn't just about maximizing property value; it's about building destinations where people genuinely want to spend their time, blurring the lines between living, working, and leisure.

"We're really trying to create a place where people want to be, where they want to live, work and shop," explains Tony D'Onofrio, CEO of Old Brick. "It's about more than just putting up buildings; it's about building communities. We're not just developing properties, we're cultivating lifestyles."

This philosophy appears to be resonating strongly with the current market. Old Brick is capitalizing on a growing demand for walkable neighborhoods - communities where daily necessities and amenities are within easy reach, reducing reliance on cars and fostering a stronger sense of local interaction. The shift towards prioritizing experiences and local businesses is a key driver of this demand.

The Pandemic's Impact & The Rise of 'Live, Work, Play'

The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly accelerated this trend. The forced shift to remote work and a renewed focus on personal well-being prompted many to reassess their living situations. People began to prioritize proximity to essential services, green spaces, and a sense of community. Old Brick's business model perfectly aligns with this new normal.

"The pandemic has accelerated that trend and people want to be closer to where they live, and they want to shop local," D'Onofrio confirms. This desire for localized convenience isn't merely a temporary reaction to the pandemic; it represents a fundamental shift in lifestyle preferences. The traditional suburban model, often characterized by sprawling developments and long commutes, is increasingly being challenged by the appeal of compact, walkable neighborhoods.

Specific Projects: Revitalizing Existing Spaces and Building for the Future The company's commitment to this vision is evident in its current projects. The redevelopment of several buildings in Camillus exemplifies Old Brick's strategy of breathing new life into existing structures. Rather than demolishing and rebuilding, the company focuses on adaptive reuse, preserving the character of the community while introducing modern amenities and functionality. This sustainable approach minimizes environmental impact and contributes to the unique charm of each neighborhood.

The new development on East Genesee Street in DeWitt is a prime example of Old Brick's proactive approach to creating vibrant hubs. Details about the project are still emerging, but the company promises a thoughtfully designed space that will cater to the needs of the local community. Sources close to the project suggest the development will incorporate a mix of upscale apartments, trendy retail spaces, and potentially, co-working facilities designed to attract entrepreneurs and remote workers.

Sustainability and Adapting to Community Needs

Beyond the 'live, work, play' concept, Old Brick is also demonstrating a commitment to sustainable building practices. While specific details haven't been widely publicized, the company states that environmental responsibility is a key consideration in all its projects. This likely includes incorporating energy-efficient materials, water conservation systems, and green spaces into their developments.

However, Old Brick acknowledges that success isn't solely about building attractive spaces. It's also about being responsive to the unique needs and desires of each community. The company actively engages with local residents and stakeholders to ensure that its projects are tailored to the specific context of each neighborhood. This collaborative approach helps to foster a sense of ownership and ensures that the developments genuinely enhance the quality of life for residents.

Looking ahead, Old Brick appears poised to continue its expansion across Central New York. The company's focus on building communities, combined with its responsiveness to market trends and commitment to sustainability, positions it as a key player in shaping the future of the region's urban landscape. The company isn't just building structures; it's building a vision for a more connected, vibrant, and sustainable future for Central New York.