Third Spaces of Utica
EVOLUTION
The
of space
This page explores how Utica’s third spaces have evolved, from their historical roots to the stories we heard from locals today, while offering ideas for what these spaces could become in the future.
This page explores how Utica’s third spaces have evolved, from their historical roots to the stories we heard from locals today, while offering ideas for what these spaces could become in the future.
UTICA
background information
When understanding barriers in community spaces throughout Utica, background demographics help explain the city's current standing. Utica is an ethnically diverse city, characterized by a mix of varying socioeconomic statuses and racial demographics. The city of Utica is considered a melting pot due to its large refugee population. As of 2023, 21.3% of residents were born outside of the country, the median income was $52,000, and 27.6% of people lived in poverty. In Utica, over 40 languages are spoken, making it one of the most linguistically diverse cities in the United States. This diversity is particularly notable within the Utica City School District, where many students speak languages other than English at home. This unique makeup cultivates a city that represents a blend of hundreds of backgrounds and experiences.
UTICA
background information
When understanding barriers in community spaces throughout Utica, background demographics help explain the city's current standing. Utica is an ethnically diverse city, characterized by a mix of varying socioeconomic statuses and racial demographics. The city of Utica is considered a melting pot due to its large refugee population. As of 2023, 21.3% of residents were born outside of the country, the median income was $52,000, and 27.6% of people lived in poverty. In Utica, over 40 languages are spoken, making it one of the most linguistically diverse cities in the United States. This diversity is particularly notable within the Utica City School District, where many students speak languages other than English at home. This unique makeup cultivates a city that represents a blend of hundreds of backgrounds and experiences.
The YMCA and YWCA in downtown Utica offered gyms, pools, after-school activities, and spaces for public events. These facilities supported youth development, women’s empowerment, and intergenerational community building.
Closed in 2001 due to declining membership, aging infrastructure, and reduced public investment.
The Cosmopolitan Center emerged as a vital Black-led space in West Utica, particularly in the Washington Courts housing complex, where it hosted youth programming, social dances, fish fries, daycare programs, and summer camps.
The Cosmopolitan Center closed in 2008 after Washington Courts was demolished.
Third spaces in Utica are deeply tied to the city’s history of immigration and industry. Textile mills and factories brought waves of Italian, Irish, Polish, and later Bosnian, Burmese, and Somali immigrants, leading to third spaces emerging along lines of ethnicity and faith, in church basements and union halls.
Utica’s first structured third spaces grew from the settlement house movement, providing for the needs of this growing immigrant workforce. The Italian Settlement House was founded in 1905, offering childcare, playgrounds, and life-skills training to new immigrants. Now known as the Neighborhood Center, it provides child care, family services, and mental health support to all Uticans.
In the mid-20th century, a new wave of organizations became pillars of neighborhood life. Hover over the images to read about each one.
Unfortunately, these spaces weren't immune to city-wide changes: industry and people left, schools closed, and investment was uneven. These vital third spaces, once vibrant, struggled to survive and eventually closed their doors.
In the mid-20th century, a new wave of organizations became pillars of neighborhood life. Unfortunately, these spaces weren't immune to city-wide changes: industry and people left, schools closed, and investment was uneven. These vital third spaces, once vibrant, struggled to survive and eventually closed their doors.
Hover over the images to read about each one.
As we consider what third spaces mean today, many older adults note that their grandchildren are busier, more scheduled, and more isolated than they were when they were young. Their grandkids may be in a plethora of sports or activities, but seem less likely to freely hang out with neighbors. This showcases an important distinction: not all third spaces have to be structured. Older residents described their third spaces as part of everyday life: porches, corner stores, diners, barber shops. They remembered grabbing coffee after school at Utica Academy, skating on birthdays, watching movies at the Uptown, or just being out in the streets. Moving forward, we need to think about and support not just structured programs, but the informal spaces where community happens naturally.
P
A
S
T
In the mid-20th century, a new wave of organizations became pillars of neighborhood life:
-
The YMCA and YWCA in downtown Utica offered gyms, pools, after-school activities, and spaces for public events. These facilities supported youth development, women’s empowerment, and intergenerational community building.
-
The Cosmopolitan Center emerged as a vital Black-led space in West Utica, especially in the Washington Courts housing complex, hosting fish fries, daycare programs, summer camps, and more, becoming an anchor for Black life throughout Utica. One senior described it simply: "That's where we all went!”
-
The Boys & Girls Club of Utica similarly served generations of youth with recreational programming, mentoring, and leadership training.
Third spaces have been vital for Uticans for decades. Throughout the 20th century and into the present, various types of places have emerged and evolved, offering everything from childcare and swimming lessons to jazz concerts and political organizing. These places have fostered connection, creativity, care, and cultural resilience. Over time, many of Utica’s most cherished third spaces have closed, evolved, or been reimagined. We seek to capture and understand the impact of these changes.
Unfortunately, these spaces weren't immune to broader shifts in the city: industry left, people left, schools closed, investment was uneven. Despite their importance, many of these third spaces closed. The downtown YMCA and YWCA shuttered in 2001 due to declining membership, aging infrastructure, and reduced public investment. The area's Boys & Girls Club closed in 2017 due to similar factors. The Cosmopolitan Center closed in 2008 after Washington Courts was demolished. These were places where Uticans grew up—where they swam, danced, volunteered, and came of age. Several seniors reflected on the Cosmopolitan Center: “we would go to summer camp there, play games, make some arts and crafts…. man. It was great.”
Utica’s first third spaces emerged from the settlement house movement, providing for the needs of this growing immigrant workforce. The Italian Settlement House was founded in 1905, offering childcare, playgrounds, and life-skills training to new immigrants. Now known as the Neighborhood Center, it provides child care, family services, and mental health support to all Uticans.
Third spaces in Utica are deeply tied to the city’s history of immigration and industry. As textile mills and factories brought waves of Italian, Irish, Polish, and later Bosnian, Burmese, and Somali immigrants, third spaces often emerged along lines of ethnicity and faith, in church basements and union halls.
Arts-based third spaces have a long, flourishing history as well. The Players of Utica (est. 1907), Stanley Theatre (1928), and Uptown Theatre (1927) brought people together for performance and spectacle. These spaces were important then, but have proven to be timeless as they are still around.
Third spaces in Utica are deeply tied to the city’s history of immigration and industry. As textile mills and factories brought waves of Italian, Irish, Polish, and later Bosnian, Burmese, and Somali immigrants, third spaces emerged along lines of ethnicity and faith, in church basements and union halls.
Arts-based third spaces have a long, flourishing history as well. The Players of Utica (est. 1907), Stanley Theatre (1928), and Uptown Theatre (1927) brought people together for performance and spectacle. These spaces were important then, but have proven to be timeless as they are still around.
Third spaces in Utica are deeply tied to the city’s history of immigration and industry. As textile mills and factories brought waves of Italian, Irish, Polish, and later Bosnian, Burmese, and Somali immigrants, third spaces often emerged along lines of ethnicity and faith, in church basements and union halls.
Utica’s first structured third spaces grew from the settlement house movement, providing for the needs of this growing immigrant workforce. The Italian Settlement House was founded in 1905, offering childcare, playgrounds, and life-skills training to new immigrants. Now known as the Neighborhood Center, it provides child care, family services, and mental health support to all Uticans.
YMCA/YWCA/YMCA/YWCA/YWCA/YMCA/YWCA/YMCA/YWCA/YMCA/YWCA/YW
“We would go to summer camp there, play games, make some arts and crafts… man. It was great.”
As we consider what third spaces mean today, many older adults note that their grandchildren are busier, more scheduled, and more isolated than they were when they were young. Their grandkids may be in a plethora of sports or activities, but seem less likely to freely hang out with neighbors. This showcases an important distinction: not all third spaces have to be structured. Older residents described their third spaces as part of everyday life: porches, corner stores, diners, barber shops. They remembered grabbing coffee after school at Utica Academy, skating on birthdays, watching movies at the Uptown, or just being out in the streets. Moving forward, we need to think about and support not just structured programs, but the informal spaces where community happens naturally.
“You didn’t need a car, and you didn’t need an appointment. You just went.”
The Boys & Girls Club of Utica served generations of youth with recreational programming, mentoring, and leadership training.
The area's Boys & Girls Club closed in 2017 for similar reasons.
Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles.
“You didn’t need a car, and you didn’t need an appointment. You just went.”
Utica's historical roots
SMALL TOWN
People of all ages noted that the small yet manageable size of Utica fosters a strong sense of community. One senior we interviewed remarked that Utica strikes a perfect balance: it's large enough to offer diverse entertainment, ethnic cuisine, and medical services, yet small enough to navigate easily. Still, one-third of those who mentioned Utica’s size, primarily teens and young adults, said it makes the city feel boring and limiting. They often turn to nearby cities, such as Syracuse or Ilion, for alternative spaces, including larger trampoline parks or more appealing nightlife options. Despite these opinions, most people highlighted Utica’s “small town mentality” and interconnectedness in a positive light. They attributed this sense of community to places such as church basements and basketball courts in Proctor Park, which help foster family bonds throughout the city.
Proctor Park is the smallest of Utica's Parks at 62 acres, but it is considered the crown jewel of the city's parks. A popular place for basketball pickup games and picnics.
The Cosmopolitan Center emerged as a vital Black-led space in West Utica, particularly in the Washington Courts housing complex, where it hosted youth programming, social dances, fish fries, daycare programs, and summer camps.
The Cosmopolitan Center closed in 2008 after Washington Courts was demolished.
PAST
In the mid-20th century, a new wave of organizations became pillars of neighborhood life:
-
The YMCA and YWCA in downtown Utica offered gyms, pools, after-school activities, and spaces for public events. These facilities supported youth development, women’s empowerment, and intergenerational community building.
-
The Cosmopolitan Center emerged as a vital Black-led space in West Utica, especially in the Washington Courts housing complex, hosting fish fries, daycare programs, summer camps, and more, becoming an anchor for Black life throughout Utica. One senior described it simply: "That's where we all went!”
-
The Boys & Girls Club of Utica similarly served generations of youth with recreational programming, mentoring, and leadership training.
Third spaces have been vital for Uticans for decades. Throughout the 20th century and into the present, various types of places have emerged and evolved, offering everything from childcare and swimming lessons to jazz concerts and political organizing. These places have fostered connection, creativity, care, and cultural resilience. Over time, many of Utica’s most cherished third spaces have closed, evolved, or been reimagined. We seek to capture and understand the impact of these changes.
Unfortunately, these spaces weren't immune to broader shifts in the city: industry left, people left, schools closed, investment was uneven. Despite their importance, many of these third spaces closed. The downtown YMCA and YWCA shuttered in 2001 due to declining membership, aging infrastructure, and reduced public investment. The area's Boys & Girls Club closed in 2017 due to similar factors. The Cosmopolitan Center closed in 2008 after Washington Courts was demolished. These were places where Uticans grew up—where they swam, danced, volunteered, and came of age. Several seniors reflected on the Cosmopolitan Center: “we would go to summer camp there, play games, make some arts and crafts…. man. It was great.”
Utica’s first third spaces emerged from the settlement house movement, providing for the needs of this growing immigrant workforce. The Italian Settlement House was founded in 1905, offering childcare, playgrounds, and life-skills training to new immigrants. Now known as the Neighborhood Center, it provides child care, family services, and mental health support to all Uticans.
Third spaces in Utica are deeply tied to the city’s history of immigration and industry. As textile mills and factories brought waves of Italian, Irish, Polish, and later Bosnian, Burmese, and Somali immigrants, third spaces often emerged along lines of ethnicity and faith, in church basements and union halls.
Arts-based third spaces have a long, flourishing history as well. The Players of Utica (est. 1907), Stanley Theatre (1928), and Uptown Theatre (1927) brought people together for performance and spectacle. These spaces were important then, but have proven to be timeless as they are still around.
Third spaces in Utica are deeply tied to the city’s history of immigration and industry. As textile mills and factories brought waves of Italian, Irish, Polish, and later Bosnian, Burmese, and Somali immigrants, third spaces emerged along lines of ethnicity and faith, in church basements and union halls.
Arts-based third spaces have a long, flourishing history as well. The Players of Utica (est. 1907), Stanley Theatre (1928), and Uptown Theatre (1927) brought people together for performance and spectacle. These spaces were important then, but have proven to be timeless as they are still around.
Third spaces in Utica are deeply tied to the city’s history of immigration and industry. As textile mills and factories brought waves of Italian, Irish, Polish, and later Bosnian, Burmese, and Somali immigrants, third spaces often emerged along lines of ethnicity and faith, in church basements and union halls.
YMCA/YWCA/YMCA/YWCA/YWCA/YMCA/YWCA/YMCA/YWCA/YMCA/YWCA/YW
“We would go to summer camp there, play games, make some arts and crafts… man. It was great.”
As we consider what third spaces mean today, many older adults note that their grandchildren are busier, more scheduled, and more isolated than they were when they were young. Their grandkids may be in a plethora of sports or activities, but seem less likely to freely hang out with neighbors. This showcases an important distinction: not all third spaces have to be structured. Older residents described their third spaces as part of everyday life: porches, corner stores, diners, barber shops. They remembered grabbing coffee after school at Utica Academy, skating on birthdays, watching movies at the Uptown, or just being out in the streets. Moving forward, we need to think about and support not just structured programs, but the informal spaces where community happens naturally.
The Boys & Girls Club of Utica served generations of youth with recreational programming, mentoring, and leadership training.
The area's Boys & Girls Club closed in 2017 for similar reasons.
Add paragraph text. Click “Edit Text” to update the font, size and more. To change and reuse text themes, go to Site Styles.
“You didn’t need a car, and you didn’t need an appointment. You just went.”
Third spaces in Utica are deeply tied to the city’s history of immigration and industry. Textile mills and factories brought waves of Italian, Irish, Polish, and later Bosnian, Burmese, and Somali immigrants, leading to third spaces emerging along lines of ethnicity and faith, in church basements and union halls.
Utica’s first structured third spaces grew from the settlement house movement, providing for the needs of this growing immigrant workforce. The Italian Settlement House was founded in 1905, offering childcare, playgrounds, and life-skills training to new immigrants. Now known as the Neighborhood Center, it provides child care, family services, and mental health support to all Uticans.
In the mid-20th century, a new wave of organizations became pillars of neighborhood life. Hover over the images to read about each one.
Unfortunately, these spaces weren't immune to city-wide changes: industry and people left, schools closed, and investment was uneven. These vital third spaces, once vibrant, struggled to survive and eventually closed their doors.
In the mid-20th century, a new wave of organizations became pillars of neighborhood life. Unfortunately, these spaces weren't immune to city-wide changes: industry and people left, schools closed, and investment was uneven. These vital third spaces, once vibrant, struggled to survive and eventually closed their doors.
As we consider what third spaces mean today, many older adults note that their grandchildren are busier, more scheduled, and more isolated than they were when they were young. Their grandkids may be in a plethora of sports or activities, but seem less likely to freely hang out with neighbors. This showcases an important distinction: not all third spaces have to be structured. Older residents described their third spaces as part of everyday life: porches, corner stores, diners, barber shops. They remembered grabbing coffee after school at Utica Academy, skating on birthdays, watching movies at the Uptown, or just being out in the streets. Moving forward, we need to think about and support not just structured programs, but the informal spaces where community happens naturally.
Utica’s first structured third spaces grew from the settlement house movement, providing for the needs of this growing immigrant workforce. The Italian Settlement House was founded in 1905, offering childcare, playgrounds, and life-skills training to new immigrants. Now known as the Neighborhood Center, it provides child care, family services, and mental health support to all Uticans.
“You didn’t need a car, and you didn’t need an appointment. You just went.”
The YMCA and YWCA in downtown Utica offered gyms, pools, after-school activities, and spaces for public events. These facilities supported youth development, women’s empowerment, and intergenerational community building.
Closed in 2001 due to declining membership, aging infrastructure, and reduced public investment.
Utica's historical roots
P
R
E
S
E
N
T
TRANSPORTATION
Utica is boring. If I want to go anywhere fun, my mom has to drive me for like an hour.
12-year-old Cornhill resident.
One of the major barriers that residents identified is transportation. When considering third spaces, we must address logistics for access, not just the physical location. You can create the best community space in the world, but what good is it if no one can access it? Especially for children under the age of 16, navigating a city designed for cars can be a challenge.
Planning cities around cars may offer increased mobility for those who can drive, but for those who can't, it creates a significant barrier. Both kids and seniors who don’t drive rely on others for transportation. We talked with several students who had never visited the Parkway Center, despite living 800 feet from it in Cornhill. Why? Because the four lane parkway prevents students in Cornhill from easily accessing the rec center. Similarly, a highway cuts off to the west from central Utica. Seniors who cannot organize their transportation can sometimes feel stuck, or as though there’s no way to get to the places they want to go.
Key themes from conversations with locals
We spoke with 49 Uticans of all ages to gain insight into what the third spaces in Utica are like today. During these conversations, individuals shared their appreciation for, as well as perceived barriers to existing places. This section presents residents' thoughts, organized into six broader themes. Click on a button to learn more about a theme.
Theme | Youth (10-22) | Adults (23-54) | Seniors (55+) |
|---|---|---|---|
Outreach | Large barrier to attending events. Don't know what events are happening. | Slight barrier. Mostly a barrier to event organizers. | Not an issue |
Cost | Major barrier to participating in activities. | Not an issue | Not an issue |
Transportation | Walkability and transportation is a huge barrier. Many have to coordinate travel. | Not much of an issue. | Most attend social events in their locally available community rooms/centers. Avoid traveling far. |
Safety | Need to improve safety through gun control. Feel most safe in large crowds. | Highly concerned with public safety. Avoid large crowds to feel safer and prefer private events. | Unconcerned with safety |
P
R
E
S
E
N
T
SMALL TOWN
People of all ages noted that the small yet manageable size of Utica fosters a strong sense of community. One senior we interviewed remarked that Utica strikes a perfect balance: it's large enough to offer diverse entertainment, ethnic cuisine, and medical services, yet small enough to navigate easily. Still, one-third of those who mentioned Utica’s size, primarily teens and young adults, said it makes the city feel boring and limiting. They often turn to nearby cities, such as Syracuse or Ilion, for alternative spaces, including larger trampoline parks or more appealing nightlife options. Despite these opinions, most people highlighted Utica’s “small town mentality” and interconnectedness in a positive light. They attributed this sense of community to places such as church basements and basketball courts in Proctor Park, which help foster family bonds throughout the city.
Proctor Park is the smallest of Utica's Parks at 62 acres, but it is considered the crown jewel of the city's parks. A popular place for basketball pickup games and picnics.
SAFETY
Safety was the most common and contentious theme, raised in half of our conversations across all age groups. While 50% saw it as a barrier, others either didn’t view it as an issue (37.5%) or had a more nuanced take (12.5%).
Violent crime was the top concern, with Utica ranking in the bottom 10th percentile nationally. One teen emphasized gun control over new playgrounds, while another shared losing a family member to gun violence and witnessing drug use among peers in parks. Seniors recalled long-standing issues, from hearing gunshots in their youth to recent incidents like teens with BB guns at McDonald's.
What makes me feel safe makes my friends feel unsafe
Latino youth felt safer as more people of color moved into the neighborhood, even though those same newcomers sometimes intimidated their friends.
Seniors noted that while safety concerns have long existed, they’ve worsened over time. In the past, they freely roamed parks and streets, which served as key community spaces. Today, teens still imagine open, inclusive third spaces, but parents are more cautious, citing crowd risks and calling for more foot patrols to feel safe letting their kids out.
Although safety is a real issue in Utica, some young adults challenged mainstream narratives, pointing out how perceptions of safety are often shaped by race and class. A 21-year-old felt safe in Cornhill despite its bad reputation, attributing fears to class prejudice. Another felt more at ease as more Hispanics moved into her area, though she noted White peers felt uneasy around Black and Latine neighbors. This highlights how perceived safety is shaped by personal identity and social context as much as by actual crime or danger.
Expensive is exclusive.
Utica’s successful third spaces have been intentionally created; they are welcoming, offer various programming, and, most importantly, they are free. The SUNY Poly STEM summer camp we attended at the Empowerment Center is completely free to all youth, and likewise, the Young Scholars program is free and even came with a stipend for those who participated. Outside of these organized programs, cost pushes youth to gather in other spaces, such as local parks and neighborhood streets.
COST
The truth is, most third spaces come with a price tag.
When asking a kid at a summer camp what kind of third space he would like to see, we got an unusual response: not more parks or playgrounds or activities, but a soup kitchen. With a 26.7% poverty rate, their concerns about access and affordability reflect the reality of many Uticans. Seniors and adults, on the other hand, spoke about third spaces cost far less than youth.
The majority of youth mentioned cost as a factor for their lack of involvement in community spaces like gymnastics facilities, indoor soccer arenas, or trampoline parks. Many popular third spaces in the area, like the local fitness centers, require an expensive membership which youth are unable to afford.
When asked how they heard about the third spaces they love, most youth and seniors were stumped. “How do I get started on it? Just word of mouth, I guess,” stated Sunset Wood resident when asked how she found her weekly Mahjong group. The charming, old-fashioned casualness of the area depends on the strength of one's social connections. While many people shared that this spontaneity led to some of their best experiences in the Utica community, it can also be limiting, as it relies on a certain level of existing social interaction. Who you know should not decide the ways you get to know people.
OUTREACH
People are glued to their phones.
Owner of popular coffee shop in Utica when discussing the rise digital outreach.
Youth also face communication barriers. When discussing the Juneteenth events our team attended with summer camp kids, some mentioned that they would have gone if only they had known about it. Without a clear, city-wide channel to share events, many Uticans miss out on events they would’ve otherwise attended.
If valuable community spaces, such as free summer camps and senior lunches, already exist, why don’t more people know about them? This boils down to limited outreach, which still relies too heavily on newspaper ads and grocery store bulletin boards. To popularize third spaces, Uticans need to update their outreach systems to reflect the current modes of communication, such as social media.
When asked how they heard about the third spaces they love, most youth and seniors were stumped. “How do I get started on it? Just word of mouth, I guess,” stated Sunset Wood resident when asked how she found her weekly Mahjong group. The charming, old-fashioned casualness of the area depends on the strength of one's social connections. While many people shared that this spontaneity led to some of their best experiences in the Utica community, it can also be limiting, as it relies on a certain level of existing social interaction. Who you know should not decide the ways you get to know people.
OUTREACH
Youth also face communication barriers. When discussing the Juneteenth events our team attended with summer camp kids, some mentioned that they would have gone if only they had known about it. Without a clear, city-wide channel to share events, many Uticans miss out on events they would’ve otherwise attended.
If valuable community spaces, such as free summer camps and senior lunches, already exist, why don’t more people know about them? This boils down to limited outreach, which still relies too heavily on newspaper ads and grocery store bulletin boards. To popularize third spaces, Uticans need to update their outreach systems to reflect the current modes of communication, such as social media.
People are glued to their phones.
Owner of popular coffee shop in Utica when discussing the rise digital outreach.
PRESENT
Key themes from conversations with locals
SAFETY
Safety was the most common and contentious theme, raised in half of our conversations across all age groups. While 50% saw it as a barrier, others either didn’t view it as an issue (37.5%) or had a more nuanced take (12.5%).
Violent crime was the top concern, with Utica ranking in the bottom 10th percentile nationally. One teen emphasized gun control over new playgrounds, while another shared losing a family member to gun violence and witnessing drug use among peers in parks. Seniors recalled long-standing issues, from hearing gunshots in their youth to recent incidents like teens with BB guns at McDonald's.
Seniors noted that while safety concerns have long existed, they’ve worsened over time. In the past, they freely roamed parks and streets, which served as key community spaces. Today, teens still imagine open, inclusive third spaces, but parents are more cautious, citing crowd risks and calling for more foot patrols to feel safe letting their kids out.
Although safety is a real issue in Utica, some young adults challenged mainstream narratives, pointing out how perceptions of safety are often shaped by race and class. A 21-year-old felt safe in Cornhill despite its bad reputation, attributing fears to class prejudice. Another felt more at ease as more Hispanics moved into her area, though she noted White peers felt uneasy around Black and Latine neighbors. This highlights how perceived safety is shaped by personal identity and social context as much as by actual crime or danger.
What makes me feel safe makes my friends feel unsafe
Latino youth felt safer as more people of color moved into the neighborhood, even though those same newcomers sometimes intimidated their friends.
OUTREACH
When asked how they heard about the third spaces they love, most youth and seniors were stumped. “How do I get started on it? Just word of mouth, I guess,” stated Sunset Wood resident when asked how she found her weekly Mahjong group. The charming, old-fashioned casualness of the area depends on the strength of one's social connections. While many people shared that this spontaneity led to some of their best experiences in the Utica community, it can also be limiting, as it relies on a certain level of existing social interaction. Who you know should not decide the ways you get to know people.
People are glued to their phones.
Owner of popular coffee shop in Utica when discussing the rise digital outreach.
Youth also face communication barriers. When discussing the Juneteenth events our team attended with summer camp kids, some mentioned that they would have gone if only they had known about it. Without a clear, city-wide channel to share events, many Uticans miss out on events they would’ve otherwise attended.
If valuable community spaces, such as free summer camps and senior lunches, already exist, why don’t more people know about them? This boils down to limited outreach, which still relies too heavily on newspaper ads and grocery store bulletin boards. To popularize third spaces, Uticans need to update their outreach systems to reflect the current modes of communication, such as social media.
SMALL TOWN
People of all ages noted that the small yet manageable size of Utica fosters a strong sense of community. One senior we interviewed remarked that Utica strikes a perfect balance: it's large enough to offer diverse entertainment, ethnic cuisine, and medical services, yet small enough to navigate easily. Still, one-third of those who mentioned Utica’s size, primarily teens and young adults, said it makes the city feel boring and limiting. They often turn to nearby cities, such as Syracuse or Ilion, for alternative spaces, including larger trampoline parks or more appealing nightlife options. Despite these opinions, most people highlighted Utica’s “small town mentality” and interconnectedness in a positive light. They attributed this sense of community to places such as church basements and basketball courts in Proctor Park, which help foster family bonds throughout the city.
Proctor Park is the smallest of Utica's Parks at 62 acres, but it is considered the crown jewel of the city's parks. A popular place for basketball pickup games and picnics.
SMALL TOWN
People of all ages noted that the small yet manageable size of Utica fosters a strong sense of community. One senior we interviewed remarked that Utica strikes a perfect balance: it's large enough to offer diverse entertainment, ethnic cuisine, and medical services, yet small enough to navigate easily. Still, one-third of those who mentioned Utica’s size, primarily teens and young adults, said it makes the city feel boring and limiting. They often turn to nearby cities, such as Syracuse or Ilion, for alternative spaces, including larger trampoline parks or more appealing nightlife options. Despite these opinions, most people highlighted Utica’s “small town mentality” and interconnectedness in a positive light. They attributed this sense of community to places such as church basements and basketball courts in Proctor Park, which help foster family bonds throughout the city.
Proctor Park is the smallest of Utica's Parks at 62 acres, but it is considered the crown jewel of the city's parks. A popular place for basketball pickup games and picnics.
TRANSPORTATION
When we think about third spaces, we also need to think about how people get to them. You can build the best community center in the world, but what good is it if no one can reach it?
Utica is a car-centered city. It may help those who can drive, but leaves out everyone else. Especially kids and seniors, getting around can be hard. Feeling stuck repeatedly came up in our conversations. Some students told us they’d never been to the Parkway Center, even though they live just 800 feet away in Cornhill. Why? Because the four-lane parkway makes it dangerous and difficult to cross. A highway cuts off parts of west Utica the same way. For seniors who no longer drive, it can feel like there's no way to get to the places they want to go. A third space isn’t truly accessible if it’s out of reach.
Utica is boring. If I want to go anywhere fun, my mom has to drive me for like an hour.
12-year-old Cornhill resident
When asked how they heard about the third spaces they love, most youth and seniors were stumped. “How do I get started on it? Just word of mouth, I guess,” stated Sunset Wood resident when asked how she found her weekly Mahjong group. The charming, old-fashioned casualness of the area depends on the strength of one's social connections. While many people shared that this spontaneity led to some of their best experiences in the Utica community, it can also be limiting, as it relies on a certain level of existing social interaction. Who you know should not decide the ways you get to know people.
OUTREACH
Youth also face communication barriers. When discussing the Juneteenth events our team attended with summer camp kids, some mentioned that they would have gone if only they had known about it. Without a clear, city-wide channel to share events, many Uticans miss out on events they would’ve otherwise attended.
If valuable community spaces, such as free summer camps and senior lunches, already exist, why don’t more people know about them? This boils down to limited outreach, which still relies too heavily on newspaper ads and grocery store bulletin boards. To popularize third spaces, Uticans need to update their outreach systems to reflect the current modes of communication, such as social media.
People are glued to their phones.
Owner of popular coffee shop in Utica when discussing the rise digital outreach.
SAFETY
Safety was the most common and contentious theme, raised in half of our conversations across all age groups. While 50% saw it as a barrier, others either didn’t view it as an issue (37.5%) or had a more nuanced take (12.5%).
Violent crime was the top concern, with Utica ranking in the bottom 10th percentile nationally. One teen emphasized gun control over new playgrounds, while another shared losing a family member to gun violence and witnessing drug use among peers in parks. Seniors recalled long-standing issues, from hearing gunshots in their youth to recent incidents like teens with BB guns at McDonald's.
What makes me feel safe makaes my friends feel unsafe
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Seniors noted that while safety concerns have long existed, they’ve worsened over time. In the past, they freely roamed parks and streets, which served as key community spaces. Today, teens still imagine open, inclusive third spaces, but parents are more cautious, citing crowd risks and calling for more foot patrols to feel safe letting their kids out.
Although safety is a real issue in Utica, some young adults challenged mainstream narratives, pointing out how perceptions of safety are often shaped by race and class. A 21-year-old felt safe in Cornhill despite its bad reputation, attributing fears to class prejudice. Another felt more at ease as more Hispanics moved into her area, though she noted White peers felt uneasy around Black and Latine neighbors. This highlights how perceived safety is shaped by personal identity and social context as much as by actual crime or danger.
P
R
E
S
E
N
T
SMALL TOWN
People of all ages noted that the small yet manageable size of Utica fosters a strong sense of community. One senior we interviewed remarked that Utica strikes a perfect balance: it's large enough to offer diverse entertainment, ethnic cuisine, and medical services, yet small enough to navigate easily. Still, one-third of those who mentioned Utica’s size, primarily teens and young adults, said it makes the city feel boring and limiting. They often turn to nearby cities, such as Syracuse or Ilion, for alternative spaces, including larger trampoline parks or more appealing nightlife options. Despite these opinions, most people highlighted Utica’s “small town mentality” and interconnectedness in a positive light. They attributed this sense of community to places such as church basements and basketball courts in Proctor Park, which help foster family bonds throughout the city.
Proctor Park is the smallest of Utica's Parks at 62 acres, but it is considered the crown jewel of the city's parks. A popular place for basketball pickup games and picnics.
Utica’s successful third spaces have been intentionally created; they are welcoming, offer various programming, and, most importantly, they are free. The SUNY Poly STEM summer camp we attended at the Empowerment Center is completely free to all youth, and likewise, the Young Scholars program is free and even came with a stipend for those who participated. Outside of these organized programs, cost pushes youth to gather in other spaces, such as local parks and neighborhood streets.
COST
The truth is, most third spaces come with a price tag.
The majority of youth mentioned cost as a factor for their lack of involvement in community spaces like gymnastics facilities, indoor soccer arenas, or trampoline parks. Many popular third spaces in the area, like the local fitness centers, require an expensive membership which youth are unable to afford.
When asking a kid at a summer camp what kind of third space he would like to see, we got an unusual response: not more parks or playgrounds or activities, but a soup kitchen. With a 26.7% poverty rate, their concerns about access and affordability reflect the reality of many Uticans. Seniors and adults, on the other hand, spoke about third spaces cost far less than youth.
TRANSPORTATION
Utica is boring. If I want to go anywhere fun, my mom has to drive me for like an hour.
12-year-old Cornhill resident.
One of the major barriers that residents identified is transportation. When considering third spaces, we must address logistics for access, not just the physical location. You can create the best community space in the world, but what good is it if no one can access it? Especially for children under the age of 16, navigating a city designed for cars can be a challenge.
Planning cities around cars may offer increased mobility for those who can drive, but for those who can't, it creates a significant barrier. Both kids and seniors who don’t drive rely on others for transportation. We talked with several students who had never visited the Parkway Center, despite living 800 feet from it in Cornhill. Why? Because the four lane parkway prevents students in Cornhill from easily accessing the rec center. Similarly, a highway cuts off to the west from central Utica. Seniors who cannot organize their transportation can sometimes feel stuck, or as though there’s no way to get to the places they want to go.
F
U
T
U
R
E
Transportation
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The lack of transportation options showcases the need for smaller and closer third spaces for everyone in the city. By decentralizing third spaces, we can ensure people don’t have to cross highways or rely on a ride just to hang out.
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Organize or join meetups in walkable spaces near where you live. A bench, basketball court, or even a patch of grass can become a third space.
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Options such as neighborhood-based carpool systems or shuttle services could work.
-
Ensure policymakers know how you feel. Advocate for increased city investment in public transit and safer crossings.
Outreach
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Third spaces can be created anywhere by anyone, and getting the word out is vitally important. Posting on social media is a great way to reach people regardless of where in the city they might live or hangout.
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A potential area for future work is designing and maintaining a central outreach system, where folks can view a community database that has information about local events, and people can add new events they are hosting or taking a part in. This would allow for information to spread beyond immediate circles.
Safety
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People will not gather if they feel unsafe. Choose gathering spots based on both real safety data and community feedback. Add simple features like lighting, visibility, and clear signage.
-
If you're making a third space, ensure folks are free to express their safety concerns and collaborate with the community to make sure the space is inclusive.
Cost
-
A third space does not have to be expensive; meeting up weekly at a picnic table in the park is a free example of how to create a third space with no resources
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Creating community around the practice of gathering is also inexpensive: older folks reminded us that some of the most memorable experiences happened in living rooms, porches, and backyards.
FUTURE
Ideas for creating and imagining ideal third spaces
F
U
T
U
R
E
Transportation
-
The lack of transportation options showcases the need for smaller and closer third spaces for everyone in the city. By decentralizing third spaces, we can ensure people don’t have to cross highways or rely on a ride just to hang out.
-
Organize or join meetups in walkable spaces near where you live. A bench, basketball court, or even a patch of grass can become a third space.
-
Options such as neighborhood-based carpool systems or shuttle services could work.
-
Ensure policymakers know how you feel. Advocate for increased city investment in public transit and safer crossings.
Outreach
-
Third spaces can be created anywhere by anyone, and getting the word out is vitally important. Posting on social media is a great way to reach people regardless of where in the city they might live or hangout.
-
A potential area for future work is designing and maintaining a central outreach system, where folks can view a community database that has information about local events, and people can add new events they are hosting or taking a part in. This would allow for information to spread beyond immediate circles.
Safety
-
People will not gather if they feel unsafe. Choose gathering spots based on both real safety data and community feedback. Add simple features like lighting, visibility, and clear signage.
-
If you're making a third space, ensure folks are free to express their safety concerns and collaborate with the community to make sure the space is inclusive.
Cost
-
A third space does not have to be expensive; meeting up weekly at a picnic table in the park is a free example of how to create a third space with no resources
-
Creating community around the practice of gathering is also inexpensive: older folks reminded us that some of the most memorable experiences happened in living rooms, porches, and backyards.
FUTURE
Ideas for creating and imagining ideal third spaces
Creating and Imagining Ideal Future Third Spaces
FUTURE
Transportation
-
The lack of transportation options showcases the need for smaller and closer third spaces for everyone in the city. By decentralizing third spaces, we can ensure people don’t have to cross highways or rely on a ride just to hang out.
-
Organize or join meetups in walkable spaces near where you live. A bench, basketball court, or even a patch of grass can become a third space.
-
Options such as neighborhood-based carpool systems or shuttle services could work.
-
Ensure policymakers know how you feel. Advocate for increased city investment in public transit and safer crossings.
Outreach
-
Third spaces can be created anywhere by anyone, and getting the word out is vitally important. Posting on social media is a great way to reach people regardless of where in the city they might live or hangout.
-
A potential area for future work is designing and maintaining a central outreach system, where folks can view a community database that has information about local events, and people can add new events they are hosting or taking a part in. This would allow for information to spread beyond immediate circles.
Safety
-
People will not gather if they feel unsafe. Choose gathering spots based on both real safety data and community feedback. Add simple features like lighting, visibility, and clear signage.
-
If you're creating a third space, ensure folks are free to express their safety concerns and collaborate with the community to make sure the space is inclusive.
Cost
-
A third space does not have to be expensive; meeting up weekly at a picnic table in the park is a free example of how to create a third space with no resources
-
Creating community around the practice of gathering is also inexpensive: older folks reminded us that some of the most memorable experiences happened in living rooms, porches, and backyards.
CHANGE
starts with
YOU.
If we want to strengthen Utica’s third spaces, we need to show up, use them, and support the local economy. As we’ve mentioned, a major barrier is awareness; many great places already exist, but people simply don’t know about them. Beside, we’ve gathered some of the spots we visited and loved. Click on any image to learn more and discover what’s already waiting in your community.
CHANGE STARTS WITH YOU.
If we want to strengthen Utica’s third spaces, we need to show up, use them, and support the local economy. As we’ve mentioned, a major barrier is awareness; many great places already exist, but people simply don’t know about them. Beside, we’ve gathered some of the spots we visited and loved. Click on any image to learn more and discover what’s already waiting in your community.
References
“About.” The Neighborhood Center, www.neighborhoodctr.org/about/.
“Utica, NY Crime Rates and Statistics.” NeighborhoodScout, www.neighborhoodscout.com/ny/utica.
“Explore Census Data: Utica City, New York.” U.S. Census Bureau, data.census.gov/profile/Utica_city,_New_York?g=160XX00US3676540.
“Contact Us.” City of Utica, www.cityofutica.com/contact-us.
“Violent Crime Rates in Utica, NY.” CrimeGrade.org, crimegrade.org/violent-crime-utica-ny/.
“Empowerment Center Events.” Revitalize Cornhill, www.revitalizecornhill.com/events/.
“About.” The Neighborhood Center, www.neighborhoodctr.org/about/.
“Utica, NY Crime Rates and Statistics.” NeighborhoodScout, www.neighborhoodscout.com/ny/utica.
“Explore Census Data: Utica City, New York.” U.S. Census Bureau, data.census.gov/profile/Utica_city,_New_York?g=160XX00US3676540.
“Contact Us.” City of Utica, www.cityofutica.com/contact-us.
“Violent Crime Rates in Utica, NY.” CrimeGrade.org, crimegrade.org/violent-crime-utica-ny/.
“Empowerment Center Events.” Revitalize Cornhill, www.revitalizecornhill.com/events/.
References