By Eileen Buckley
Buffalo, NY – Buffalo Mayor Anthony Masiello, Niagara District Council Member Nick Bonifacio and State Assemblyman Sam Hoyt say a northern plaza is the best solution for the future of the Peace Bridge. Under this option, the plaza would shift from the current site at Front Park and Busti Avenue down to Rhode Island and Niagara Street.
Mayor Masiello says he is calling on the Common Council and Buffalo Fiscal Stability Authority to provide a five year commitment from the city. And Masiello says it is now time for the state and federal governments to pony up and provide their fair share. But he says it is not just about the money.
"This is an investment in a neighborhood, an investment in people who want to live here," Masiello said. "It is an investment in commerce and environmental enhancement."
Hoyt says he believes there is the potential for a state contribution. He says it is not just a local project because it involves an international border.
"We have to think about how this project is of international significance," Hoyt said. "Every level of government has to step in."
The leaders say creating a new plaza will enhance the nearby West Side neighborhood and improve the future of the Peace Bridge for years to come. Council Member Bonafacio, who represents the West Side, says building a northern plaza would affect about 80 homes. But he says 59 owners told him they are willing to sell for this project.
"They all understand that this is a very important project for the region," Bonifacio said. "It is not about today or near future, it is about 100 years of a transportation project that can finally be done right in the City of Buffalo."
The northern plaza would also spare the demolition of homes along Busti Avenue. Resident Richard Totaro says homeowners are frustrated after waiting eight long years for changes. But he says a northern plaza would remove the heavy truck and car emissions from their homes.
"Let's get it going so we can start living our lives again," Totaro said. "You can't open your windows without the dirt from the cars, so let's see what happens."
If a new plaza is created, Front Park would be restored as to its original park-like setting.