A memorial honoring the victims of the American Civic Association shooting is taking shape. Construction on the memorial is scheduled to begin this week. Our Melissa Kakareka brings us an update on the project.

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BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- Right now, the park on the corner of Front and Clinton streets is just a patch of grass. But this week, its transformation will begin into a memorial for the 13 victims of the American Civic Association shooting.

The Binghamton Parks Department has been clearing the site. The project's coordinator says the contractor and architect are scheduled to be on site in the middle of the week and dirt could be moved as early as this Friday.

"Before they get things going, they obviously have to stake off the area to make sure no one will be coming on site. As with anything, they will be bringing materials and tools on site first and then some of the leveling of site in preparations for walkways and brick paths is going to be taking place. I understand that’s the first order of business is getting walkways set," said Project Coordinator David Marsland.

The memorial's design consists of a fractured granite column surrounded by 13 glass birds and a garden. Construction of those elements has already begun off site and will be assembled as the building process moves along.

"So all those pieces have to kinda be assembled and come on site and there's been a lot of work done to make sure they will fit to a tee before they bring them here," said Marsland.

Construction is scheduled to take about eight weeks and a dedication ceremony is being planned for mid-December.

After about three-and-a-half years of work, The project's coordinator says there's a sense of nervous anticipation about seeing the final product.

"A little nervous, keeping my fingers crossed, but there doesn't seem to be much that can go wrong at this point, I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it will be lit for Christmas and I'm gonna be very, very happy," said Marsland.

Completing a project that will serve as a reminder of those that were lost for many years to come.

Donations are still being accepted to cover the costs of the construction and maintenance of the park.