An additional $10 million in state funding will support redevelopment of commercial properties and vacant sites across Buffalo’s East Side, creating further opportunities for property owners and developers to pursue renovation and infill projects. Announced Oct. 8 by Gov. Kathy Hochul, the funding expands the East Side Building Fund, a program administered by Empire State Development (ESD) with philanthropic and community partners.
The investment is intended to help stabilize historic buildings, rehabilitate existing commercial properties and encourage new construction on infill sites. The next funding round is expected to launch in the coming months.
The initiative began in May 2025. Through the program, ESD has awarded $10 million to 35 commercial and mixed-use developments after processing 300 applications and advancing 50 finalists.
The fund supports projects involving commercial or mixed-use properties on Buffalo’s East Side. Eligible developments may include storefront buildings with retail space on the ground floor and residential units above.
Priority is given to projects located within or near designated business districts along Jefferson Avenue, Fillmore Avenue, Michigan Avenue, Genesee Street and Bailey Avenue.
Funding is intended to help property owners move renovation and redevelopment projects forward, particularly where existing buildings require stabilization or commercial spaces need improvements. Infill development also provides a mechanism for putting underused sites back into productive use within established neighborhoods.
The program involves coordination among state economic development officials, local community leaders and philanthropic partners. Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes helped secure the additional funding, according to the state announcement.
The expanded fund adds public capital for commercial rehabilitation and mixed-use development in Buffalo. For developers and property owners, the program offers a potential source of support for eligible projects involving existing buildings and vacant parcels in designated areas.
The investment also connects building preservation with neighborhood commercial development. Projects involving older properties may require stabilization and renovation before they can accommodate new commercial or residential uses.
Details about individual awards under the upcoming funding round, including award amounts, project schedules and construction start dates, have not yet been announced.
Source: ESD.
