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Connections

Coming up on Connections: Friday, March 9

First hour: Discussing the re-worked design plan for Parcel 5

Second hour: Update on the Erie Canal clear-cutting controversy

Rochester's Parcel 5 got a fresh launch this week with the introduction of a re-worked design plan. It maintains the plan for a performing arts center while adding more open space to allow for community use, including concerts during the jazz festival. There are other tweaks as well. Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren enthusiastically endorsed the vision. Our guests discuss it:

  • Sandy Parker, former CEO of the Rochester Business Alliance, and new leader of the project team for Parcel 5
  • Willie Joe Lightfoot, member of Rochester City Council
  • Ray Ray Mitrano, member of People for Parcel 5

Then in our second hour, a state judge on Wednesday ruled in favor of the Towns of Pittsford, Perinton and Brighton in their effort to halt the clear cutting of trees along the Erie Canal, at least until the Canal Corporation and the New York Power Authority comply with the State Environmental Quality Review Act. It is, for now, a victory for residents and community members who have argued the project is wrong-headed, and potentially unsafe. We'll hear from the Power Authority, and our guests in studio:

  • Ginny Maier and Elizabeth Agte, members of the Stop the Canal Clear Cut group

Connections
Evan Dawson is the host of "Connections with Evan Dawson." He joined WXXI in January 2014 after working at 13WHAM-TV, where he served as morning news anchor. He was hired as a reporter for 13WHAM-TV in 2003 before being promoted to anchor in 2007.
Megan Mack is the executive producer of "Connections with Evan Dawson" and live/televised engagement programming.