Bulldozer operators got right to work Thursday, leveling land next to Seneca Lake.

“It’s going to be one of the first developments in a long time on the Lake,” said Marc Demshock with Rivers Edge Capital. Demshock is overseeing the Lake’s Edge Seneca Development project.

He and dozens of others showed up for the Groundbreaking ceremony off Lochland Road, right outside downtown Geneva

Demshock came to the event from his home in Pennsylvania. He says this location has a special meaning to him.

“My family came up here throughout my life and it’s always had a soft spot in my heart,” Demshock said. “It’s always been place to relax and unwind. When we saw this property come up it was a great opportunity to give back to something that’s always given to me.”

More: Geneva Area Chamber co-hosts groundbreaking milestone celebration for Lakes Edge Seneca Development Project

This almost 13-acre property will soon be transformed into a brand new mixed-use development, with places to live and visit. 

“There will be fifty-one luxury townhomes, all with a lake view and lake access,” Demshock said. “A 110-room luxury branded hotel and a 10-thousand square foot farm-to-table restaurant.”

Geneva Fire Chief Del Parrotta says Geneva needs this type of project to draw in a diverse group of people

“I’m very excited to be here today,” Parrotta said. “I’ve been working with the owners and developers over the past few months.  Just getting things off on the right foot, from the Fire Marshall and Code Enforcement, making sure everything is up to standards and I think they’re doing a great job.”

City Manager Amie Hendrix explains this plot of land used to home Geneva’s American Legion.

“It’s definitely using a past property in a different way,” Hendrix said. “[We’re] Looking at how we continue to grow and build on what Geneva already has.  There’s a lot of opportunity here. This is another great opportunity for people to come and live here.>

Right now construction is focused on the townhomes. Construction on the hotel and restaurant is expected to start next Spring. 

Get the latest headlines delivered to your inbox each morning. Sign up for our Morning Edition to start your day. FL1 on the Go! Download the free FingerLakes1.com App for Android (All Android Devices) or iOS (iPhone, iPad).

Rebecca is a veteran multimedia journalist serving as one of our core reporters in the Finger Lakes region. She is responsible for telling stories that matter to every day Upstate New Yorkers. Have a question or lead? Send it to rebecca@fingerlakes1.com.