Earlier this week, the state DOT threw its support behind the community grid option for I-81 in Syracuse. But before talking about the highway's future, one local group is focusing on its history. 

The Syracuse chapter of the National Action Network hosted a discussion on the community grid Saturday. Members of the group recall how the now viaduct split up the 15th ward.

That resulted in the loss of a tight knit community and forced many people to relocate. 

While the group has continuously supported the grid option, members say they have to stick together in order to prevent another community from getting split up.

"Making sure that both effected parties, whether it's the target footprint or those in outer laying areas, still made up or effected by the 81 transition to know no one is going to lose out," said National Action Network Syracuse Chapter President Twiggy Billue. "We don't want that for anyone. We don't want to win while another community loses; it's gotta be a win-win."

The DOT will host public information sessions. Those will be followed by a comment period before a final report is issued.