By Eileen Buckley
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-962932.mp3
Buffalo, NY – The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation board approved several items that will continue to transform Buffalo's waterfront.
Board members approved a contract for construction of a temporary extension of the Central Wharf Tuesday.
"So we are making progress. We have extended the wharf. We have activities. We've tripled the amount of activities. We are game planning, so I think we always have small things going on, quick hits, and then we are always game planning for a bigger picture," said ECHDC president Thomas Dee.
Dee told reporters how Buffalo's waterfront continues to be transformed. He said Several initiatives will be in place by this summer. The board approved construction of a temporary extension of the Central Wharf.
"You are going to see fences down. You are going to see the extension of the wharf in a temporary way, and then the planning for the permanent extension of that, which would include the docks in the water, so that will happen simultaneously," said Dee.
There is still no big name anchor store for Canal side. But Western New York Congressman Brian Higgins noted it is the water that remains the "anchor feature" of the waterfront.
"The idea is you do the infrastructure that makes these development sites attractive for private sector investment with without public subsidies," said Congressman Higgins.
Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown wants to see retail and restaurants, both local and national chains, along the harbor front to boost public interest and future employment.
In other action Tuesday, the ECHDC gave the green light for a construction contract involving the design of the historic canals. That work could be completed by late Summer of 2012.
The board also renewed its contract with Buffalo Place to provide programs along the canal and approved a grant for repairs and restoration to the historic Buffalo Lighthouse.