This mixed-use project covers approximately five (5) acres and consists of three new buildings along with a reconstructed roadway alignment, enhanced site amenities, including parking, sidewalks, lighting, landscaping, and more. The buildings were limited to three-stories to honor the character of the Central Avenue Historic District, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. Developers say the project is all about boosting the local economy.

"The village needs to grow and there needs to be an opportunity for our growing community in Lancaster to come out and really enjoy the village and be able to shop, stay, live, eat and do all those types of things together for the community," said Tom Sweeney, developer of Lancaster Village Center.

In total, the new wood-framed buildings will create approximately 22,000 square feet (SF) of commercial space and 44,000 SF of residential space for the small Village of Lancaster. Six businesses and 18 apartments now fill Phase One on the north side of West Main Street.

Phase Two started construction almost as soon as Phase One opened. It mirrors Phase One at street level but incorporates a wraparound deck overlooking nearby Cayuga Creek Park, residential apartments with balconies, and a full basement with enclosed parking accessed from the rear.

The entire $12 million project is expected to be complete over the next five years.