Newsmakers: Outgoing Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh reflects on his tenure, achievements, and future role as executive director of the State Canal Corporation.

, and Administrator

2025 December 20 . 2:31 PM

1 min read

This image is clicked in the city. At the bottom, there is a road, on which there are cars. To the... — This image is clicked in the city. At the bottom, there is a road, on which there are cars. To the left and right, there are buildings and skyscrapers. At the top, there is a sky.

Newsmakers: Outgoing Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh

Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh is stepping down after eight years in office. His departure comes as he prepares to take on a new role as executive director of the New York State Canal Corporation. The city’s first population growth in 70 years occurred during his time as mayor.

Walsh will leave the mayoralty to lead the State Canal Corporation, overseeing New York’s waterway systems. His transition follows a tenure marked by both achievements and challenges. Under his leadership, Syracuse saw a reduction in gun violence and improved safety measures for sanitation workers.

He appeared on Newsmakers 22 times since his election, often discussing city policies and community issues. Despite progress, Walsh admitted feeling powerless in the face of tragedies but stressed the importance of being present for residents. He has repeatedly praised Syracuse’s diverse culture and population as key strengths of the city.

As his term ends, Walsh offered advice to his successor, Sharon Owens. He urged her to remain authentic, listen closely to constituents, and prioritise their needs. Reflecting on his time in office, he acknowledged that public service requires continuous effort and improvement.

Walsh expressed gratitude for his years as mayor and stated his belief that Syracuse’s best days lie ahead. His new position will shift his focus from local governance to statewide infrastructure management. The city now prepares for a leadership change under Owens, who will take over in the coming weeks.