Buffalo, NY – Buffalo's historic river banks are expected to receive a makeover. State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver came to Buffalo Wednesday to announce the Buffalo River Initiative with State Assemblyman Mark Schroeder.
The state will be providing $500,000 this year to begin in establishing the public park.
Leaders said the River Project includes the acquisition of riverfront land along Ohio Street at Michigan resulting in redevelopment for public access.
Mayor Anthony Masiello was on hand for the announcement. He said the project will be one of the many outer and inner harbor projects planned for Buffalo.
"Our waterfront is very large and diverse. It includes Lake Erie, the Buffalo River, Niagara River, the Outer Harbor and the Inner Harbor," said Masiello. "It is historic. It is cultural and right now we have 17 projects in the pipe line. That includes new and real investment in all those venues and attractions on Buffalo's waterfront."
When complete, the riverfront will include a park and pavilion which will become home to the annual River-fest and other blues festivals and outdoor events. Boaters will also be able to navigate the Buffalo River from West Seneca into South Buffalo's Old First Ward and along Lake Erie.