After much controversy and legal wrangling, uptown Kingston’s Pike Plan canopies appear destined for demolition. A New York State appeals court has ruled in favor of the city of Kingston, clearing the way for the long-delayed removal of the blighted structure. The decision concluded that the canopies are city-owned, not permanent fixtures of adjacent private buildings as argued by wealthy developer Neil Bender’s William Gottlieb Real Estate. The court also referenced a 2017 city resolution that relieved property owners of maintenance obligations for the canopies, reinforcing the city’s claim of ownership.
With the legal hurdle removed, Kingston officials plan to move forward with issuing a request for proposals, originally prepared in late 2024, to find a contractor for the demolition work. The $1.2 million project, approved in August 2024, includes not only canopy removal but also repairs to building facades and the installation of improved sidewalk lighting. Mayor Steve Noble said demolition is expected to begin in winter 2026 and emphasized that the city will take precautions to minimize disruption to nearby businesses and properties.
The ruling stems from one of multiple lawsuits filed by William Gottlieb Real Estate in an effort to stop the city’s plans. The developer’s legal team argued the canopies were immovable fixtures tied to privately owned buildings, but the court rejected this, affirming the city’s right to remove them. Additionally, a procedural clarification from the court further confirmed that the canopies are not part of the private properties involved in the lawsuit.
There are still pending cases from the developer. These include two lawsuits challenging the Common Council’s votes to fund the demolition, which have been consolidated, and a separate case over alleged negligence and breach of contract related to canopy maintenance. A motion to dismiss that case is currently awaiting a decision.
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