UTICA, NY (WUTR/WFXV/WPNY) – Mayor Robert Palmieri was at Liberty Bell Park on Genesee Street on Thursday, April 20 to unveil new renovations to the park.

The upgrades – which will include a mosaic globe, new benches, and new chess tables – come from the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and State and Municipal Facilities grants.

The announcement comes just days before the City and Munson will unveil the finalists for the mural that will replace the iconic “Sun Mural” in the park. The mural had to be removed recently to repair the wall it was painted on. The mural will be chosen by Utica residents.

Other improvements to the park include new seating and accent lighting, ornamental trees, and a destination sign pointing to places residents of the city have come from. The Liberty Bell memorial and the fountain – which was repaired last year — are scheduled to remain.

“We want to make Utica into a memorable place that residents can be proud of. We’re celebrating our diversity, showcasing our culture, and adding to the places to visit in a bustling downtown,” Palmieri said in a statement. “I’m proud of the design, and I look forward to watching all of these investments come together for the betterment of our city.”