A new planning initiative is underway to guide the next phase of redevelopment along Buffalo's waterfront. New York State has launched a comprehensive strategic planning process intended to coordinate future investment, support mixed-use development and establish a long-term vision for one of the region's most active redevelopment corridors.
Empire State Development will lead the initiative by retaining a planning consultant to conduct market analysis, urban design studies and stakeholder engagement. The resulting strategy will provide recommendations for future development within a study area extending from Erie Basin Marina to Michigan Avenue and bounded by the Buffalo River and Interstate 190, including Sahlen Field.
The planning effort is intended to help public agencies and private stakeholders evaluate development opportunities based on financial feasibility, market demand and compatibility with ongoing redevelopment projects.
The strategy follows decades of public investment that transformed the Buffalo River waterfront from former industrial property into a mixed-use destination. State officials expect the planning process to support additional residential, commercial and community development as several major projects move forward across the district.
Current projects include construction of the North Aud mixed-use development, continued work at Heritage Point, completion of The Chandlery, expansion of the Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship, opening of the NFTA DL&W Terminal and redevelopment of affordable housing at Commodore Perry Homes and Marine Drive Apartments.
Comprehensive planning initiatives help public agencies coordinate infrastructure investment, land use and private development while improving long-term project feasibility. Establishing a unified development strategy can also support future procurement opportunities and phased construction across large urban redevelopment districts.
For developers, contractors and construction owners, the Buffalo waterfront planning effort signals continued public-sector commitment to mixed-use development and infrastructure investment across Western New York.
Source: ESD. NY. GOV.
