Assembly Resolution No. 814

BY: M. of A. Buttenschon

COMMEMORATING the 110th Anniversary of the Union
Station in Utica, New York on May 24, 2024

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize that
the quality and character of life in the communities across the great
State of New York is reflective of certain exemplary organizations whose
purpose is dedicated to serving the community and the needs of its
citizenry; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 110th Anniversary of the Union Station in Utica, New
York on May 24, 2024; and

WHEREAS, An iconic landmark and centerpiece of the city's
transportation and social scene for over a century, the Union Station
was originally built in 1914; it served as a transportation hub for the
New York Central Railroad and later Amtrak, still serving as a stop for
Amtrak's Adirondack, Empire Service, and Maple Leaf routes; and

WHEREAS, The Union Station was designed by the renowned architect,
Allen H. Stem, who is known for designing other notable train stations
such as New York City's Grand Central Terminal and Buffalo's Union
Station; the design of Union Station was inspired by the Roman
Renaissance and Beaux-Arts styles of architecture, which are
characterized by their grandeur and ornate details; and

WHEREAS, A bustling transportation hub for travelers every day, the
Union Station is a beloved cultural space in the Utica community,
hosting various events and festivals throughout the year; in addition to
serving as a transportation hub and event space, the Union Station is
also home to the Utica Children's Museum, which offers hands-on exhibits
and educational programs for children of all ages and is a popular
destination for families visiting the area; and

WHEREAS, Supporting the community through hard times in history,
during World War II, the station saw an increase in traffic as soldiers
and military personnel passed through on their way to various training
facilities and military bases; and

WHEREAS, The Union Station is exquisite, featuring ornate stone
carvings and a clock tower on the exterior, while the interior boasts
elegant marble floors and towering columns; in recent years, the Station
has undergone extensive renovations to restore its historic features and
update its facilities, including improvements to the heating and cooling
systems, the installation of new elevators, and the restoration of the
station's iconic clock tower; and

WHEREAS, As a symbol of Utica's rich history and cultural heritage,
the Union Station remains a beloved landmark in the city; its ornate
architecture and storied past serve as a reminder of the important role
that train travel played in the development of American cities and the
enduring legacy of historic buildings; and


WHEREAS, A vital part of its community, this remarkable institution
has continually strived to provide outstanding service, focusing on
education, recreation, and social inclusion, to a diverse population of
neighborhood residents; and

WHEREAS, The success achieved by the Union Station is in direct
correlation to the efforts of its leadership and the many individuals
who have supported the development of the Station over the years; and

WHEREAS, Steeped in a proud and distinguished history, the Union
Station may take just pride in its purposeful growth, as it looks
forward to continuing to serve the educational, cultural, and
intellectual needs of the Utica community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 110th Anniversary of the Union Station in Utica, New
York on May 24, 2024; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Union Station in Utica, New York.