User:Jessica1419/Salt Springs (Syracuse, New York)

Salt Springs is an officially recognized neighborhood located on the east side of Syracuse, New York, characterized by its historical connection to the city's salt industry. This area is distinct for its blend of medium to small-sized residences, many of which are historic and were constructed no later than 1939. Salt Springs is bounded by Eastwood, Near Eastside, and Meadowbrook, and is noted for its significant African American community and socio-economic challenges, including high rates of childhood poverty. ^[1]

Salt industry around Onondaga Lake, played a pivotal role in shaping Syracuse's development, creating jobs, and establishing the city as a vital trade hub due to the strategic advantage provided by these natural resources. The Salt Springs area, in particular, benefited from the industry's economic activities, contributing to the growth and infrastructure development that characterized Syracuse during this period.  

Today, the legacy of the salt industry is embedded in Syracuse's cultural identity, celebrated in landmarks such as the Salt Museum, yet it also brings to light the environmental impacts of historical industrial activities. Efforts to remediate and revitalize areas like Onondaga Lake reflect the city's commitment to balancing its industrial heritage with environmental conservation.  

This narrative underscores the complex relationship between Syracuse, the "Salt City," and the Salt Springs community, highlighting the intertwined destinies of natural resource exploitation, urban development, and sustainable environmental management.

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population of Salt Springs was recorded at 4,929, marking a slight decrease of 0.16% from the 4,937 individuals counted in 2010. The neighborhood covers an area of 1.040 square miles.^[2]

• Black or African American: 2,628 individuals (53%)
• White: 1,295 people (26.1%)
• Hispanic or Latino: 574 residents (11.6%)
• Asian: 280 persons (5.6%)
• Two or more races: 165 individuals (3.3%)
• American Indian: 19 people (0.4%)

• Male Population: 2,247 individuals with an average age of 32.1 years, which is 0.6 years younger than the Syracuse average.
• Female Population: 2,682 individuals with an average age of 37.1 years, surpassing the median age in Syracuse by 4.1 years.

As of 2021, the median household income in Salt Springs was approximately $51,339. This figure is $11,263 higher than the median income in the Syracuse area, yet it is $30,047 less than the median household income across New York State.^[2]

The average household size in Salt Springs is 10.7 individuals, significantly smaller than the Syracuse average of 29.0 individuals per household. The neighborhood also exhibits a higher proportion of family households, constituting 41.6% of its residences, compared to 34.9% in the broader Syracuse area. ^[2]

These statistics provide insights into the variances in living arrangements and family composition between Salt Springs and the wider Syracuse community.

The Le Moyne Area Neighborhood Development Strategy (LANDS) assesses the needs and opportunities in neighborhoods surrounding Le Moyne College in Syracuse and DeWitt, New York. It aims to improve connections between the college and its surrounding areas. The study area spans about two square miles, with the college campus at its center. The plan identifies mutual benefits and offers strategies for the City, Town, and college to enhance these neighborhoods.^[3]

In the January 26, 2023 speech, Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh mentioned plans to start a third phase of the Onondaga Creekwalk. This phase will extend the bike and pedestrian path from its current terminus near Kirk Park south to the city limits. Funding has been secured to hire an engineering design firm, begin land acquisition, and initiate community engagement.^[4]

The Syracuse Build is Construction Training Program ensures that city residents are able to participate in projects such as I-81. more than 60 residents have completed the Pathways to Apprenticeship program and are now pursuing apprenticeships that lead to well-paying careers. Partnerships with City Council President Helen Hudson, labor unions, CenterState's CEO, and Syracuse Build, led by Chris Montgomery, are transforming lives for generations.The city's construction program is a great example of how the city's construction industry is changing the way people live.^[4]

Anthony A. Henninger High School is the largest of the four high schools in the Syracuse City School District, with an enrollment of around 1800 students.^[5]

Le Moyne College is a private Jesuit college founded by the Society of Jesus in 1946. Named after Jesuit missionary Simon Le Moyne, it was the first co-educational Jesuit college in the United States at its inception.^[6]

Le Moyne College, located just east of Salt Springs, plays a crucial role in the neighborhood, influencing local development and community dynamics. The college's presence contributes to local economy and housing, and it is involved in several community engagement and development initiatives aimed at improving the relationship between the college and Salt Springs.^[7]

The neighborhood faces challenges in accessing essential services such as healthcare and social support, particularly for its elderly and low-income residents.

Residents of Salt Springs have limited access to healthcare facilities within the neighborhood, necessitating travel to nearby areas for medical services. This issue is particularly acute for elderly and low-income families who may not have easy access to transportation.

Salt Springs is characterized by high rates of poverty and single-parent households. Social services aimed at supporting these demographics are essential, yet the neighborhood lacks sufficient resources to meet the demand. Community centers and programs that offer job training, childcare, and financial assistance could significantly benefit the residents​.^[8]

The main public transportation system in Salt Springs community is provided by Centro Bus company. The community has access to the following bus routes: Sy874 Solvay, Sy974 Wilbur Ave, Sy936 Erie Blvd West, Sy921, Teall Ave, Sy90 Legman's Shopper, Sy972 Townsend, Sy 76 Salt Springs Rd, Sy930 East Genesee, Sy926 Glenwood, Sy92 Tops Shoppers.^[9]