An aerial photograph of a two-way road and streetscape with sidewalks, parking, crosswalks, and a traffic circle

An aerial photograph of a two-way road and streetscapes with parking, sidewalks, a crosswalks, and an intersection

An aerial photograph of a two-way road and streetscapes with parking and sidewalks.

An aerial photograph of a two-way road and streetscapes with parking, sidewalks, crosswalks, and a traffic circle

Walkable Olean – Phase III East State Street Streetscape Improvements

A Walkable Olean: Streetscape Improvements for All Users

Following its 2017 Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) award, the City of Olean embarked on a journey to complete nine projects that would revive their community. The Walkable Olean Phase III East State Street Streetscape Improvements project represents the culmination of this work.

LaBella provided design services for improvements along East State Street between North Union Street and East Avenue, which included installing:

A multi-use path
Intersection improvements with a roundabout at Barry Street
Curb extensions
New cross markings
Curb ramps
Median extensions
Wayfinding signage

Key factors in LaBella’s design of the multi-use path included incorporating design guidance for width, slope, and surfacing that complemented the city environment and integrated well with neighboring properties. Other key considerations included evaluating the profile and grading for all construction within the City’s right-of-way.

Traffic-calming improvements and streetscapes were also incorporated to slow vehicle speeds, improve safety, enhance mobility for all users, and improve air quality.

Wayfinding signage was developed to augment the citywide signage initiative and provide connectivity and guidance to city parks, recreational facilities, and shopping districts.

Together with the other DRI projects, this Locally Administered Federal Aid (LAFA) project works toward meeting the Walkable Olean goal—a pedestrian-friendly, walkable, and bikeable district.

Ribbon-Cutting Marks the Completion of a Transformative Streetscape Project

On October 17, 2025, the City of Olean marked the completion of its final DRI projects, including the Walkable Olean – Phase III East State Street Streetscape Improvements project. More than 50 people—including dignitaries from the City, New York State Department of State, and Regional Empire State Development—attended the ribbon-cutting to celebrate the projects that will help revitalize and transform Olean’s streets into community assets for all users.

As Featured By

Governor Hochul’s Pressroom

New York State Governor Kathy Hochul’s pressroom published a press release commending the completion of Olean’s DRI projects, including Walkable Olean Phase III.

Read the release here