[Bison716]

More jobs coming to Buffalo!

http://www.buffalonews.com/145/story/769055.html

[StevenW]

The Richardson Olmsted plan sounds very exciting. :)

[westcoastperspective]

Good news for a prime corner:


Buyer emerges for ex-Twain, Cloister site

Local chiropractor Dr. Scott Croce confirmed he expects to close in the next few days on Twain’s former Buffalo home at 472 Delaware Ave. The proposed buyer has plans to construct a new building on the site while playing off the few remaining elements of Twain’s house including the fable carriage house.

“I look at it as a prime corner that needs a beautiful building,” Croce said.

Croce is still working out his final plans for the site.

Initially, he is considering razing much of the former restaurant portion of the property and replacing it with a two-story building that may approach 12,000-square-feet that will house the offices of his firm, Erie County Chiropractic, and other medical-related offices. Croce said he may even consider a third floor that may be home to three apartments.

Croce would like to start the construction work later this fall or by early next year and be in the building within the next 12 months.

Whatever Croce builds, he wants to play what remains of Twain’s carriage house and brick work from the abode. Twain, using his birth name of Samuel Clemens, lived in Buffalo in the house between 1869 and 1871 when he was editor of the former Buffalo Express. He moved to Hartford from Buffalo in 1871.

Croce said he has always had a strong interest in the building, not only for its history but also for its location.

“I’ve always loved that corner,” Croce said. “It’s right in the heart of Allentown and just a few blocks from the (Buffalo Niagara) medical campus.”

http://buffalo.bizjournals.com/buffalo/stories/2009/08/24/daily42.html?t=printable

[M II A II R II K]

This is off-topic but me & miketoronto will be in Buffalo today so if anyone wants to meet up with us today text us your phone number @ 647-216-4562.

At a restaurant on Elmwood.

[BUFFALOVE!!]

First Niagara is finally moving to buffalo! and adding 300 new jobs along the way

I wish it were downtown but i'll take it

http://www.buffalonews.com/258/story/790792.html
http://buffalo.bizjournals.com/buffalo/stories/2009/09/07/daily23.html?surround=lfn

[Bison716]

Another big move. Keep it moving!

http://www.buffalorising.com/2009/09/ground-broken-for-ub-pharmacy-school.html

[westcoastperspective]

Larkin District Gateway Project

Preliminary work has started on the gas station conversion- it'll be either commercial or retail space. Plans for the three-story building behind it are still in flux (office is likely, but perhaps residential?- no definite word from CityView/Larkin).


http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/1251/larkin52.jpg

http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/6291/larkin53.jpg

[Brandon716]

Additional good news- Redevelopment of the Arctic Freezer building along the 190 have started. Its going to be office space.

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/3705/dsc0329.jpg

http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/2411/dsc0325.jpg

http://www.buffalorising.com/2009/07/plans-for-arctic-freezer-redevelopment-finally-thawing.html

What/Who is rumore?

[Fortunate4Now]

What/Who is rumore?
Phil Rumore is the Buffalo Teachers Federation President

Look here to hear what the owner of that building has to say about it:

http://www.buffalorising.com/2009/07/quote-of-the-day-roman-around-buffalo.html#SlideFrame_0

and here:

http://vimeo.com/6383496

[westcoastperspective]

Official start of the conversion of the Curtiss Bldg. at Franklin/Huron starts Tuesday afternoon. :cheers:

http://img34.imageshack.us/img34/6426/curtisshotel.jpg

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/9079/dsc0357w.jpg

[Bison716]

http://buffalo.bizjournals.com/buffalo/stories/2009/09/21/daily30.html

[Bison716]

I'm not sure if anybody has heard of Ran Webber's proposal of the Buffalo Skyway, but this very recent article that I came across was very interesting to me as it relates to Mr. Webber's vision and raised me out of my seat of what could become of our "future inner harbor development".

Many people are for tearing the Skyway down for clear land to develop on, but nothing would compare to the actual skyway structure itself becoming the development on its own. Imagine what possibilities and out of the box ideas it could bring to our city!

http://sf.streetsblog.org/2009/09/09/uc-planners-envision-bay-line-park-on-the-old-bay-bridge-span/

www.ranwebber.com

http://www.ranwebber.com/Movie/skywaymovie.html

[BUFFALOVE!!]

Official start of the conversion of the Curtiss Bldg. at Franklin/Huron starts Tuesday afternoon. :cheers:

http://img34.imageshack.us/img34/6426/curtisshotel.jpg

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/9079/dsc0357w.jpg

From the way the business first article was worded http://buffalo.bizjournals.com/buffalo/stories/2009/09/21/daily45.html?surround=lfn it sounded like the continental was going to be demolished for a surface driveway. The rendering does it much better justice than the article. This is a great project. Hopefully that beautiful red brick hertz building next door (which i believe he owns as well) and those two enormous surface parking lot across the street see some action next. Not to mention that hideous repair shop on the NE corner of Delaware and Huron across the street from Avant. This part of downtown is long overdue for some loving.

[Bison716]

Here's some great news coming to us from Buffalo State College.

http://www.buffalorising.com/2009/09/work-starting-on-buff-state-science-and-mathematics-complex.html

[Bison716]

Here are some new Canal Side renderings!

http://www.eekarchitects.com/community/3-inside-eek/41-on-the-boards-canal-side-buffalo-ny

[Bison716]

http://www.ranwebber.com/Skyway_Project.html

[westcoastperspective]

Here are some new Canal Side renderings!

http://www.eekarchitects.com/community/3-inside-eek/41-on-the-boards-canal-side-buffalo-ny

Nice find....I had given up checking their website for any news. For what they're being paid to lay out the design- we haven't seen much from them. :koko:

[westcoastperspective]

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/4356/ramp1w.jpg

First look at Marine Drive ramp plan
Some tenants fighting it

Rich Newberg

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - As Buffalo's inner harbor takes shape, people are going to have to park somewhere to take advantage of the attractions.

But on Thursday, some Marine Drive Apartment residents are saying "Not in my backyard!"

With Bass Pro coming in along with hotels, museums, and water attractions, 2,700 new parking spaces will have to be created.

Almost half are slated to be located on Marine Drive.

A six story parking ramp, plans seen for the first time, would accommodate 1,200 cars and include retail stores and offices.

It would replace the surface lot where tenants of Marine Drive Apartments now park.

Some tenants have major concerns.

Tenant, Edward Ball asked, "What are we going to have to do, drive up to the fourth and fifth level? And also, is there going to be security in the ramp?"

The Tenant Council wants the ramp put somewhere else.

Tenants' Attorney, Joseph Makowski said, "When you go from a 400 car residential lot to a 1,200 car commercial lot, there is lots of traffic, congestion, smog."

But waterfront planners say the location of the ramp is critical, across from the Commercial Slip and all future Canal Side attractions.

Matt Davison of the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation stated, "It's very important. It's part of our first phase of Canal Side and really establishing a tourist destination in downtown Buffalo. We need a place where people can come and park and are able to visit Canal Side."

But the ramp's Senior Project Manager, Steve Ranalli, is reassuring tenants they will have priority parking, with their own separate entrance.

"It will be free. It will be separated out physically from the ramp, so that we're not getting commuters, or visitors, or anyone else into the BMHA's parking," Ranalli said.

http://www.wivb.com/dpp/news/First_look_at_Marine_Drive_ramp_plan_20090924

[westcoastperspective]

From the Canalside EIS, word from ECHDC is that the elevations are only meant to show massing/scale and are not final designs.

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/3935/canalside8.jpg

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/8585/canalside7.jpg

Proposed Webster Block:

http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/3796/canalside16.jpg

Proposed Donovan Bldg. Makeover:

http://img121.imageshack.us/img121/8392/canalside15.jpg

[lastcall4am]

wow...seeing the number of units, hotel rooms, and square footage really puts this into persepective. this feels much bigger. 520 residential units, 480 hotel rooms, and roughly 500,000 sq. ft each of retail and office space.

if you haven't seen the current site, check it out on the link below.

http://www.earthcam.com/client/erie/



re-laying the cobblestone street grid should be starting within a few weeks.

[westcoastperspective]

wow...seeing the number of units, hotel rooms, and square footage really puts this into persepective. this feels much bigger. 520 residential units, 480 hotel rooms, and roughly 500,000 sq. ft each of retail and office space.

if you haven't seen the current site, check it out on the link below.

http://www.earthcam.com/client/erie/



re-laying the cobblestone street grid should be starting within a few weeks.


The EIS has three development scenarios: low-moderate-high. That map shows the high intensity scheme. For example, the parcel next to the Marine Drive ramp lists 275 units- good luck marketing that many units in one phase. But they are building flexibility into the project so uses can be shifted amongst the parcels as demand plays out. I don't think they've made a decision on keeping or demoing the Donovan. Last I heard is they were reconsidering saving it.

[BUFFALOVE!!]

The elevations look pretty good so far. However I would like to see the number of hotel spaces halved and the number of apartments increased by 50% or more. I've been very supportive of all the recent hotel additions to the city but sooner or later we have to slow down. However we haven't hit the wall with downtown apartments yet... keep them coming!!! If released in phases like wcp mentioned, i'm sure they'll be very successful and perhaps spur a movement downtown that will support other projects in other parts of the central business district... well those are my hopes and dreams at least.

[steel]

What's going on with the Federal Court Building. Any glass panels going up yet??

[sullymon54]

This is the most recent photo I have, its from September 16th, that's the last time I was down there. At that time there was no glass on the building but the atrium and outer skin seemed to be mostly finished.

If you look closely you can see a small sample they put out on the street of what the glass will look like. It is the small bright blue object to the right of that truck with the boom arm extended in front of the building.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2646/3970088762_efc82846d7_o.jpg

[Sulley]

Buffalo is really coming together nicely.

[Bison716]

Let's hope the Seneca's get back on track, and get awarded the Casino soon before we have a waste of space there.

http://buffalo.bizjournals.com/buffalo/stories/2009/09/28/daily34.html

[lastcall4am]

about the casino...i had a casual conversation with a higher up at seneca gaming about the construction of the buffalo creek casino. he said that the credit crunch last year prevented them from borrowing the rest of the money for the casino. They initially put up about a third of their own money for the project to get it going and were going to finance the rest of the project. their goal was/is to get it built as soon as possible so that a legal challenege couldn't stop their efforts. Seneca gaming was well aware that no casino, once built has ever been shut down before. Anyways, they are still working to obtain financing and remain optimistic that as the economy picks up, they will be able to get what they need

[lastcall4am]

about the casino...i had a casual conversation with a higher up at seneca gaming about the construction of the buffalo creek casino. he said that the credit crunch last year prevented them from borrowing the rest of the money for the casino. They initially put up about a third of their own money for the project to get it going and were going to finance the rest of the project. their goal was/is to get it built as soon as possible so that a legal challenege couldn't stop their efforts. Seneca gaming was well aware that no casino, once built has ever been shut down before. Anyways, they are still working to obtain financing and remain optimistic that as the economy picks up, they will be able to get what they need

-this is basically a re-hash of what the buff news has said. the point is that the lawsuit is not holding them back-

[Caug124]

Buffalo News Article - http://www.buffalonews.com/home/story/814622.html

few details:

John Ferchill, president of the Ferchill Group, has been in talks with New Buffalo Statler Redevelopment, which submitted the high bid for the Statler at auction but has yet to close the deal, as well as economic development agencies.

In Detroit, Ferchill Group has been praised for a $200 million, two-year renovation of the Book Cadillac Hotel completed last year.

Ferchill was on a team that restored Buffalo's Guaranty Building, the famed Louis Sullivan skyscraper, in the 1980s.

Question: If the Seneca's are having trouble getting credit to build a Casino (automatic $$ maker). How will the Statler Team be able to pull off something like this?

[Austinlee]

This is the most recent photo I have, its from September 16th, that's the last time I was down there. At that time there was no glass on the building but the atrium and outer skin seemed to be mostly finished.

If you look closely you can see a small sample they put out on the street of what the glass will look like. It is the small bright blue object to the right of that truck with the boom arm extended in front of the building.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2646/3970088762_efc82846d7_o.jpg

Whoa, shit. That building is coming along! I haven't seen any U/C pics yet and it's already topped off.

[lastcall4am]

Question: If the Seneca's are having trouble getting credit to build a Casino (automatic $$ maker). How will the Statler Team be able to pull off something like this?[/QUOTE]


The Seneca's have an iherent problem in obtaining financing. There is a ton of risk for a bank to finance a casino. An indian tribe is the only that can operate a casino on that property. If the seneca's fail to pay back the loan, the bank is left with a casino building that they can't operate as a casino. They would never be able to get back the amount of money that they loaned to the tribe in a sale of the building. The seneca niagara casino carried an interest rate of over 30%! As soon as banks are willing to finance a high-risk project, construction will be able to carry on

[Downtown Bolivar]

Here's an update on Croce's project:

http://www.buffalonews.com/home/story/819397.html

[Brandon716]

I was in downtown on Monday and Tuesday, I still haven't figured out what the new building is since I'm new to Buffalo development. Is it just an office or is there a particular use for the building?

[Brandon716]

Additional good news- Redevelopment of the Arctic Freezer building along the 190 have started. Its going to be office space.

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/3705/dsc0329.jpg

http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/2411/dsc0325.jpg

http://www.buffalorising.com/2009/07/plans-for-arctic-freezer-redevelopment-finally-thawing.html

Is that silly billboard going to go as well, it looks tacky.

[Fortunate4Now]

I was in downtown on Monday and Tuesday, I still haven't figured out what the new building is since I'm new to Buffalo development. Is it just an office or is there a particular use for the building?

which "new" building? the federal courthouse?
Description of Project: U.S. District Court with five courtrooms and six chambers, the Magistrates with four courtrooms and chambers, a Court of Appeals chamber, and a satellite library, along with necessary facilities for preparatory space for the U.S. Attorney and Federal Public Defender. Secure indoor parking for 54 vehicles.

http://projectbuffalo.com/wp-content/gallery/buffalo-federal-courthouse/fed_buffalo.jpg

Description and picture per:
http://projectbuffalo.com/?p=46

[Brandon716]

Ah, nice work for a court building!

[westcoastperspective]

Recent development along Huron Street-

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/2417/huron.png

[westcoastperspective]

Wilson Farms is going to open in the Alling & Cory project, now called Lofts at 136. Might not seem like a big deal, but it is their first in the downtown area and brings another grocery option for downtown dwellers and workers. So it isn't Whole Foods, but its a good step in making downtown a neighborhood.

http://www.buffalorising.com/2009/10/construction-watch-136-n-division-street.html

Project website:

www.136lofts.com

[BUFFALOVE!!]

Canadian co. lands at Main Place
from business first
http://buffalo.bizjournals.com/buffalo/stories/2009/10/12/daily24.html?surround=lfn

The city should be actively marketing itself to these types of companies

[Brandon716]

Now that Buffalo is my new home, I shall have to understand the developments going on in the city.

[westcoastperspective]

Now that Buffalo is my new home, I shall have to understand the developments going on in the city.

Welcome! There isn't alot going on, so it should be a quick learning curve! :shrug:

[WIGS]

^yeah, exactly.

Brandon, glad to hear you moved to Buffalo. I had the best 4 1/2 years of my life in Buffalo and consider the city to be my 2nd hometown.
where are you currently living?

Now that I live in Calgary one has to put effort forth to keep up with all the development here. big contrast.

[WIGS]

take advantage of the relatively inexpensive arts, culture and sporting events. Also read Artvoice to keep up with weekly events

[Brandon716]

Moving from Pittsburgh. Have to finalize an apartment on monday and get things moved in the next two weeks, maybe next weekend if things go well.

[westcoastperspective]

With 13,000 posts, you likely have more than all of the regulars here combined. :cheers:

[westcoastperspective]

Buffalo Rising will have the fly-through up later today (where these images were taken from). See BRO for other details on the latest plan.

http://www.buffalorising.com/2009/10/canal-side-details-at-last.html


http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/6659/csmain.png

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/5434/csfour.png

http://img27.imageshack.us/img27/1657/csthree.png

http://img99.imageshack.us/img99/5653/cstwo.png

[Bison716]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqMGdNVecj0

[Brandon716]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqMGdNVecj0

Hmm, I'd go to one of these meetings just to see the guy who starts talking at :56 seconds. Very attractive IMO.

Anyway, nice idea. LOL

[WIGS]

Imagine Canal Side with the Skyway torn down :shrug: :haha:

[westcoastperspective]

http://img2.imageshack.us/img2/4820/dsc0719ka.jpg

New owner for Lafayette

Termini would not say how much he agreed to pay for the faded 367-room hotel, built for the 1901 Pan-American Exposition.

But he stressed that he’s still “kicking the tires” on the 110,000 square-foot building in a due diligence period for 60 days, and the purchase won’t close for another 60 days after that.

“I’ve been considering it for years, just waiting for the opportunity,” he said. “My plans are not clear yet. We’re working on that.”

Termini said the state preservation office is unlikely to allow it to be converted to office space, but it could be restored as a hotel or converted into apartments, although he said he’s not ready to make that decision. However, “the rooms are small,” so he wants to be able to combine rooms together, as well as eliminate some of the hallways. Additionally, he wants to do “a major restoration of the first floor,” where the original 1900s interior was covered up in the 1920s with an Art Deco design. “We need to know whether we can remove the Art Deco so we can go back to the period piece of the 1900s and make it a lot nicer,” he said. “We’re looking to restore the first floor to what it was once.”

The grand ballrooms are intact but also have to be restored, Termini said, and he wants to bring back the idea of three restaurants that used to occupy the first floor. He’s already started discussions with potential restaurant operators, but is not yet talking to any hotel operators. “There’s a lot of issues that have to be brought forward,” he said.

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/8546/dsc0723.jpg

http://img2.imageshack.us/img2/9186/dsc0724f.jpg

http://www.buffalonews.com/home/story/837702.html

[Bison716]

Imagine Canal Side with the Skyway torn down :shrug: :haha:

The hard reality is that the Skyway will not come come down and be coming down period. The best the city will do is light it up like the peace bridge and call it a day. But, by far Mr. Webber's idea of the Skyway is much greater than both outcomes. If the Skyway were to get torn down (it won't) but let's say if... if it really did. What would we build in the narrow long space? Another road part of Canalside? Maybe another restaurant and 2 more stores? More space for grass? Not really much when compared to what the Skyway resused could house within it! The possibilities would be endless and the international draw to such a structure would be gigantic. It would be the largest adaptive reuse green structure in the world, right here in our home. Our city of Buffalo! Please read Ran Webbers proposal before jumping to conclusions. His idea would greatly impact the waterfront and our city in ways we could not imagine.

[Bison716]

Another project to look out for!

http://img2.imageshack.us/img2/4820/dsc0719ka.jpg

[B]New owner for Lafayette[/Bvv

Termini would not say how much he agreed to pay for the faded 367-room hotel, built for the 1901 Pan-American Exposition.

But he stressed that he’s still “kicking the tires” on the 110,000 square-foot building in a due diligence period for 60 days, and the purchase won’t close for another 60 days after that.

“I’ve been considering it for years, just waiting for the opportunity,” he said. “My plans are not clear yet. We’re working on that.”

Termini said the state preservation office is unlikely to allow it to be converted to office space, but it could be restored as a hotel or converted into apartments, although he said he’s not ready to make that decision. However, “the rooms are small,” so he wants to be able to combine rooms together, as well as eliminate some of the hallways. Additionally, he wants to do “a major restoration of the first floor,” where the original 1900s interior was covered up in the 1920s with an Art Deco design. “We need to know whether we can remove the Art Deco so we can go back to the period piece of the 1900s and make it a lot nicer,” he said. “We’re looking to restore the first floor to what it was once.”

The grand ballrooms are intact but also have to be restored, Termini said, and he wants to bring back the idea of three restaurants that used to occupy the first floor. He’s already started discussions with potential restaurant operators, but is not yet talking to any hotel operators. “There’s a lot of issues that have to be brought forward,” he said.

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/8546/dsc0723.jpg

http://img2.imageshack.us/img2/9186/dsc0724f.jpg

http://www.buffalonews.com/home/story/837702.html

[westcoastperspective]

http://img408.imageshack.us/img408/1104/dsc0453.jpg

Also on the agenda- preliminary plans for the AMA&'s store-

:cheers:


City of Buffalo Planning Board
377 MAIN STREET
Request to be SEQR Lead Agency for the
rehabilitation project of the old "AM&A's" store
into a 117 room flagship hotel with banquet
facilities, a food court, offices and apartments.

http://www.buffalorising.com/2009/10/amas-store-rehab-plan-revealed.html#SlideFrame_0

[lastcall4am]

Rocco cannot be stopped...This guy is on fire! His success rate speaks for him

[sullymon54]

http://www.buffalonews.com/258/story/842474.html


Statler deal grinds forward with deposit payment

By Matt Glynn
News Business Reporter
October 28, 2009, 2:30 PM

The prospective purchasers of the Statler Towers today provided a $261,000 payment to the trustee in the Statler bankruptcy case, erasing a problem that had threatened to derail the group's plan to acquire the property.

William Savino, an attorney for New Buffalo Statler Redevelopment, handed over the check at a court hearing.

"This is great news for Buffalo," Savino said afterward. "People wouldn't put money at risk if they weren't confident" about completing the deal.

Garry Graber, an attorney for the Statler trustee, Morris Horwitz, said the group has now paid about $500,000 of the $1.3 million purchase price, which was established when the group submitted the winning bid at an August auction. The rest of the money is due Nov. 30.

The amount the group has invested in the Statler thus far is even larger, about $750,000, when counting other expenses the group has paid, such as the Statler's operating expenses, Graber said.

"We're happy it worked out today," Graber said. "It makes it much more likely the deal will close, in my opinion."

But as with so many developments in the Statler case, the payment did not come about smoothly.

The check was supposed to be delivered to Horwitz by 5 p.m. Tuesday, but that didn't happen. Savino cited factors unrelated to the bankruptcy case that delayed the release of the money to the trustee.

Savino would not identify the source of the $261,000. It was sent to attorney Ralph Lorigo, whom the unidentified investor chose as an escrow agent, until an agreement to hand over the money was finalized. The start of today's hearing was delayed for more than an hour.

New Buffalo Statler Redevelopment also agreed to the trustee's insistence on adding $30,000 to the Statler purchase price, to cover expenses incurred that stemmed from delays in completing the deal.

Graber initially called for tacking on $50,000 to the purchase price, and told U.S. Bankruptcy Court Judge Carl L. Bucki that the trustee would not accept the $261,000 check without a commitment to that additional amount.

Savino balked at the $50,000 figure. But while the hearing was still under way, the prospective purchasers and trustee compromised on the $30,000 figure.

The $261,000 payment was one condition of a second extension New Buffalo Statler Redevelopment was given to close the deal.

But a Connecticut-based investment group that underwrote the initial $261,000 check stopped payment on it earlier this month, throwing the process into doubt.

Horwitz had warned New Buffalo Statler Redevelopment that it could be found in default if the money was not replaced, which prompted the payment that was made today.

Bucki at the end of today's hearing noted the conditions the prospective buyers must still meet, including the Nov. 30 closing date.

"I hope that last condition comes true, but I've been surprised before," Bucki said.

[Brandon716]

Since I'm very, very new to the Buffalo scene was wondering if any areas south of downtown are set for renovation or demolition? The industrial landscape south of the city seems like prime real estate upon the lake, but I haven't got enough information about the area yet to understand what is under conceptual redevelopment or either actual plans for change.

Any tips??

[stormkingfan]

http://projectbuffalo.com/wp-content/gallery/buffalo-federal-courthouse/fed_buffalo.jpg




I like it.

[Brandon716]

Is there a reason the construction has a white concrete look and the photo looks like the building is blue glass?

[Brandon716]

^yeah, exactly.

Brandon, glad to hear you moved to Buffalo. I had the best 4 1/2 years of my life in Buffalo and consider the city to be my 2nd hometown.
where are you currently living?

Now that I live in Calgary one has to put effort forth to keep up with all the development here. big contrast.

I'm in Tonawanda, couldn't find appropriate arrangements in the city in time for the move so just signed what I found that worked well with the budget. :)

[eMKay]

Is there a reason the construction has a white concrete look and the photo looks like the building is blue glass?

Yeah, the glass hasn't been installed yet.

[WIGS]

I'm in Tonawanda, couldn't find appropriate arrangements in the city in time for the move so just signed what I found that worked well with the budget. :)

that's alright. I lived in Snyder (Amherst) for most of my time in Buffalo. but I must say I had much more fun when I lived in the actual city limits. even if it was with my friend on Ghetto 7th St/Columbus Parkway :haha:

[Halovet]

that's alright. I lived in Snyder (Amherst) for most of my time in Buffalo. but I must say I had much more fun when I lived in the actual city limits. even if it was with my friend on Ghetto 7th St/Columbus Parkway :haha:

You May not believe this, but as late as the late 70s that area was not considered Ghetto. In fact Buffalo still has far worse hoods.

[WIGS]

You May not believe this, but as late as the late 70s that area was not considered Ghetto. In fact Buffalo still has far worse hoods.
Halovet, I figured as much on the first point. and I'm well aware Buffalo has worse hoods. Like Genesee-Moselle, Perry Projects, other parts of East Side, Lower West Side.
My roommate and I were the only white people on our block. He still resides there to this day. No one bugged us besides lil' Puerto Rican kids egging my car once.

[westcoastperspective]

Kissling's Lake Hotel renovation, 201 W. Huron: 8 units, $1.1 million, work starts in about six weeks
http://www.buffalorising.com/2009/11/lake-hotel-renovation-proceeding.html

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/825/jpegcolorelevation.jpg

http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/8134/dsc0192b.jpg

[westcoastperspective]

NEW RESIDENCE HALL TO EMBODY 'LEARNING LANDSCAPES' CONCEPT CENTRAL TO UB'S MASTER PHYSICAL PLAN

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/3337/southellicottsuites.jpg


The 600-unit South Ellicott Suites for sophomores will feature a "learning landscapes" concept, designed to enhance student learning by blending residential, academic and recreational areas. The new facility is part of the plan to make the North Campus more dynamic, lively and attractive. It will become the model for future campus housing at UB, according to Joseph J. Krakowiak, director of University Residence Halls and Apartments.

Construction of the 198,500-square-foot residence is underway and is expected to be ready for occupancy for the fall 2011 semester. The $57 million project is being funded by a partnership between the UB Foundation and the UB Alumni Association, and will utilize fees from residents of the building for construction and operation costs.

[westcoastperspective]

Projects aim to transform empty buildings
By Brian Meyer
NEWS STAFF REPORTER

Projects that would create new housing in the downtown business district, the Peace Bridge neighborhood and South Buffalo were presented to Buffalo's Planning Board today.

Meanwhile, officials from Ellicott Development presented plans to convert two vacant buildings into residential and commercial space. One project involves the former Baker's Shoes building in the 400 block of Main Street, not far from Lafayette Square. The $3.2 million project would create 16 market-rate apartments with indoor parking. Project manager Tom Fox said there would also be first-floor commercial or retail space.

Developer Carl Paladino was asked about the ongoing conversion of old downtown structures into loft apartments and other housing. He said he's not worried that the continuing development might cause a glut of downtown housing.

"The market is as deep as we want it to be," Paladino told a reporter following today's meeting. "The more we build, the more people will come."

Ellicott Development is also planning a $4 million project in a vacant warehouse at 960 Busti Ave., one block from the Peace Bridge. Once home to Multiform Technologies, officials said the structure will include 23 apartments and first-floor space for commercial or retail establishments.

Planning Board members praised all three projects, but they noted that developers must still obtain various approvals from governmental entities.

http://www.buffalonews.com/home/story/864604.html

http://img682.imageshack.us/img682/8625/dsc0697.jpg

Back of Baker Shoe Bldg. along Pearl Street

[WIGS]

It seems like a healthy number of projects are proposed or under construction in Buffalo again. Good to hear!

[westcoastperspective]

It seems like a healthy number of projects are proposed or under construction in Buffalo again. Good to hear!

Yes! It is safe to come back now! :D

[westcoastperspective]

http://img524.imageshack.us/img524/1483/amain.jpg

Details emerge on plan for former AM&A's

http://www.buffalonews.com/home/story/873411.html

Rocco R. Termini's vision for the long-vacant Main Street complex includes 28 market-rate senior independent living apartments, a health club and office space for an Amherst company that would move its offices to the downtown business district.

Termini also disclosed that he has lined up a nationally-known hotel entity to operate a proposed 117-room hotel.

"We will make an announcement Tuesday on who the hotel is going to be," Termini told The Buffalo News. "We're very far ahead on this project."

The project will include complete restoration of the building's exterior, said Carmina Wood Morris, a Buffalo architectural firm that is working with Termini. Masonry will be cleaned and repointed, and historic windows will be restored. Some windows that are missing or not deemed to be historic will be replaced.

"The original storefronts along Washington Street will be recreated based on photographic evidence," architects wrote.

The 350,000-square-foot complex will include a hotel at its south end. Termini is working on the hotel venture with the Hamister Group, a health care and hotel management company based in Amherst. Termini said the goal is to land a nationally-known hotel. Termini said the Hamister Group also plans to occupy commercial space in the building as it locates its headquarters downtown.

Five upper floors will be transformed into 52 apartments that will range in size from 900 square feet to about 1,575 square feet.

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/2496/awashington.jpg

[WIGS]

^I've been following development in the city of Buffalo through SSP and SSC since 2002 and have waited for AM&A's to be redone as a mixed use project.
Kudos to Rocco Termini!

[Brandon716]

Seems to be quite a bit of development considering I was told there wasn't much going on.

[Polski]

What is going to happen to the more than life size poster of Steve Christie?!? From the rendering, I see Rocco does not include Steve into his future plans for the AM&A's site. Give it 35 more years and that poster might be up for some sort of historic tax crdit.:hell:

[Sulley]

This is great news. Just wish it was real Hilton instead of a Hilton Garden Inn!

[westcoastperspective]

Seems to be quite a bit of development considering I was told there wasn't much going on.

Don't believe the commenters on the Buffalo News' site! :koko:

[Austinlee]

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/2496/awashington.jpg

This would be great. Re-use of old midrise block fillers like this building really add a lot to the vibrancy of our old cities.

[WIGS]

This is great news. Just wish it was real Hilton instead of a Hilton Garden Inn!

117 rooms is too small for a "real" Hilton :D

[impressingagent]

hey.

i was wondering if there is any word on carl paldino (spelling?) and his plans for a second waterfront tower, it seems highly adventurous at this point. His original really does help create a new vibe.

i was also wondering if that private group of people where building that 7-8 story condo tower?

both of these idea's really seemed to be a flowing trend. to the point where we were concerned about waterfront shopping and infrastructure.

what other forgotten projects are needed to be reminded of?

there are just so many hotel acts going on, i don't know, does anyone else have some concern over it.

thanks.


ps. anyone know how to defend against psychological vampires? :)

[westcoastperspective]

hey.

i was wondering if there is any word on carl paldino (spelling?) and his plans for a second waterfront tower, it seems highly adventurous at this point. His original really does help create a new vibe.

i was also wondering if that private group of people where building that 7-8 story condo tower?

both of these idea's really seemed to be a flowing trend. to the point where we were concerned about waterfront shopping and infrastructure.

what other forgotten projects are needed to be reminded of?

there are just so many hotel acts going on, i don't know, does anyone else have some concern over it.

thanks.


ps. anyone know how to defend against psychological vampires? :)

Second Paladino tower is still planned- they have 15 units to sell in their first building. They're also going to start three more townhomes in the spring (one is under construction now).

Casa Luce project, the mid-rise condo building and townhomes next to Portside, is dead. :rolleyes:

[westcoastperspective]

Larkin Streetscape and First Residential Project

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/4835/finalboards4b.jpg

First Niagara Financial Group, Inc. is kicking off a comprehensive plan to dramatically and visibly enhance homes, public spaces and business properties in the Larkin District and surrounding neighborhoods in 2010, as part of the bank's long-term commitment to partner with the Larkin Development Group and the public sector to revitalize the resurgent urban community.

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/6682/finalboards5b.jpg

During 2010 alone, over $2 million will be invested in spectacular streetscape improvements, redevelopment of a long vacant building into commercial space and rental apartments, and a financial assistance program that will underwrite residents' and small-business owners' remodeling and renovation projects in the neighborhood.

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/4783/finalboards2b.jpg

Complementing the streetscape project will be renovation of a long vacant commercial building at 740 Seneca Street at the corner of Emslie Street. Larkin Development Group will invest over a quarter of a million dollars in the renovation of the 8,000 square-foot property to create at least four units of stylish rental apartments that will be designed to appeal to artists and/or young professionals. The first floor will initially be commercial space for a Larkin District Information Center serving as a clearinghouse of resources for established and new residents, visitors, area businesses and their employees. Future use of the first floor is planned for studio space for the residents living above. The project will begin in early 2010 and will be completed during the same year. The project is being designed by Young + Wright Architectural.

http://www.buffalorising.com/2009/12/first-niagara-to-pump-2-million-into-larkin-district.html

[Downtown Bolivar]

It looks to me like First Niagara is going to pour a lot of energy and resources into making the neighborhood of their new headquarters an urban centerpiece. A friend of mine is a pastor at Seneca Street United Methodist Church in the heart of Seneca Babcock, and there's not a single useful or decent business for residents. I just hope that when these new businesses open around the Larkin District, they really will be welcoming and beneficial to exisiting residents, rather that just pushing them out of the neighborhood.

[Brandon716]

The warehouse building that First Niagara moved into looks very good, and out of place with its neighborhood. I had wondered about who moved into the offices. The bank seems like its based on sound financial footing rather than riskier banks that invest into junk bonds and crazy mortgages, so maybe they will be the long time tenant of the neighborhood and give back. Great first step!

[Sulley]

117 rooms is too small for a "real" Hilton :D

Nah, it's not.

I should go work for First Niagara, but I heart SunTrust!

[BUFFALOVE!!]

Work is planned to start on the AM&A's building by the spring!

http://www.buffalonews.com/businesstoday/localbusiness/story/895634.html?page=1&order=T#comment

this is a great quote. i only wish more apartments were going in.

"Termini said he is not concerned about being able to fill the 66 apartments that would be part of the revived complex. “We have 190 apartments downtown now; we don’t have one vacancy,” he said, estimating that about a quarter of those tenants work in the medical corridor."

[gabe_]

This is great news. Just wish it was real Hilton instead of a Hilton Garden Inn!

I agree. Buffalo needs a large 4 or 5 star luxury hotel downtown like a Omni, Sheraton, Hilton, Marriott, Westin. Garden Inn is in between a Hampton and Hilton Hotel.

[homestar]

Casa Luce project, the mid-rise condo building and townhomes next to Portside, is dead. :rolleyes:
Awww..... I liked that project. :(

[Brandon716]

Came home and started browsing photos via google image search, what is the tower behind the federal court house? Is it a dead project?

http://estrip.org/elmwood/users/paul/images/1006/buffaloSkyScaper1346.jpg

[Downtown Bolivar]

^^^Yep totally dead. It was attached to Issa, the developer responsible for the current woes at the Statler. Turns out his dreams were much larger than his capabilities. But you can see why with a tower like that plus his plan for the Statler he became a local celebrity.

[kznyc2k]

YAY!! I'll be back in Buffalo next week for the first time in over three years, and I'll be doing my best to get around and take pics of all the construction projects. I went to UB, so I'll also be focusing on their campuses (expect a photo thread on them for sure).

any projects in particular you guys would like me to hit up?

[westcoastperspective]

YAY!! I'll be back in Buffalo next week for the first time in over three years, and I'll be doing my best to get around and take pics of all the construction projects. I went to UB, so I'll also be focusing on their campuses (expect a photo thread on them for sure).

any projects in particular you guys would like me to hit up?

Genny Gateway - Genesee/Oak streets
Auto Museum - Seneca/Michigan
AC Lofts (Lofts @ 136) - 136 N. Division at Elm
AM&As Warehouse Lofts - Eagle and Washington St.
Courthouse - Niagara Square
Canalside Roads - Main/Scott Streets
204 Franklin Boutique Hotel - Franklin @ Huron
Tishman Bldg. Ground Floor Renos - Lafayette Square
136 Cherry Street - this one is a bit out of the way- it is north of Genesee Street, east of Michigan; overlooks the Kensington

:previous: That's about all that is underway right now.

[westcoastperspective]

Sounds like the Statler project is in big trouble- Biz First says judge could order the building shut!!!!

If you could pick one, which project do you think is most important for downtown:

1. Canalside
2. AM&As Reuse
3. Lafayette Hotel Reno.
4. Statler Redevelopment
5. Main Street Retraffic

[kznyc2k]

What ever happened to 33 Gates Circle? I assume by how the construction thread on it has been dead for almost two years that it too is dead, but why'd it seem to just fall off the radar?

Also, westcoastperspective, my grasp on the locations of these projects (that don't have their address in their name) is tenuous at best -- would you be a doll and list those addresses? Gracias, amigo.

[BUFFALOVE!!]

Sounds like the Statler project is in big trouble- Biz First says judge could order the building shut!!!!

If you could pick one, which project do you think is most important for downtown:

1. Canalside
2. AM&As Reuse
3. Lafayette Hotel Reno.
4. Statler Redevelopment
5. Main Street Retraffic

All of them! :)

[westcoastperspective]

All of them! :)

FAIL. Not an option. :koko:

;)

[Downtown Bolivar]

I'm going to go with the Statler project, just because this building went from a near glorious revival to a real sense of having a cloudy future. The other buildings will still be around in the future to renovate, but I'm all of the sudden very concerned for its future.

[Downtown Bolivar]

I'm a little upset that Carl Paladino described the Statler as a "sinkhole" today on Channel 4 News. Apparently this building is two weeks away from being completely mothballed. Is there some hope for this building?

[lastcall4am]

Sounds like the Statler project is in big trouble- Biz First says judge could order the building shut!!!!

If you could pick one, which project do you think is most important for downtown:

1. Canalside
2. AM&As Reuse
3. Lafayette Hotel Reno.
4. Statler Redevelopment
5. Main Street Retraffic

i'll go with #1 Canalside. If this project lives up to its plans, it has the ability to be a visual/perception changer for downtown buffalo. Imagine thousands of people shopping, eating, or just hanging out along the inner harbor downtown(which could be happening as soon as May 2011). This project is the one that pessimistic people in wny STILL think is only a joke or pipe dream and will never happen in our time.

I hate the idea of looking for a silver bullet to give the city a shot in the arm (which is what bass pro could've been if it was developed alone), but developing a neighborhood with canals, a navel park, museum, hotel, shops and restaurants has the diversity and historical character to thrive and grow. This public/private development is what Buffalo needs more than any other right now. This project has the ability to totally change the landscape and feel of downtown. The other projects, mainly the Lafayette, Statler, and AM&As will happen when the economics make sense....for the Lafayette and AM&As that may be sooner than we thought...:cheers:

[Fortunate4Now]

i'll go with #1 Canalside. If this project lives up to its plans, it has the ability to be a visual/perception changer for downtown buffalo. Imagine thousands of people shopping, eating, or just hanging out along the inner harbor downtown(which could be happening as soon as May 2011). This project is the one that pessimistic people in wny STILL think is only a joke or pipe dream and will never happen in our time.

I hate the idea of looking for a silver bullet to give the city a shot in the arm (which is what bass pro could've been if it was developed alone), but developing a neighborhood with canals, a navel park, museum, hotel, shops and restaurants has the diversity and historical character to thrive and grow. This public/private development is what Buffalo needs more than any other right now. This project has the ability to totally change the landscape and feel of downtown. The other projects, mainly the Lafayette, Statler, and AM&As will happen when the economics make sense....for the Lafayette and AM&As that may be sooner than we thought...:cheers:


^^ I agree, Canalside

[BUFFALOVE!!]

I'm a little upset that Carl Paladino described the Statler as a "sinkhole" today on Channel 4 News. Apparently this building is two weeks away from being completely mothballed. Is there some hope for this building?

I'm glad! I don't want him anywhere near that gem. Knowing him he'd take out all the first floor windows, replace them with cinderblocks and lease the whole ground floor to an abortion clinic. Maybe AA would get the mezzanine level.

source: courtyard mall

[westcoastperspective]

I'm glad! I don't want him anywhere near that gem. Knowing him he'd take out all the first floor windows, replace them with cinderblocks and lease the whole ground floor to an abortion clinic. Maybe AA would get the mezzanine level.

source: courtyard mall

:haha:

Even Rocco suggested that mothballing the Statler in a recent Biz First story is the best short-term option. :rolleyes: I'd hate to see that sitting vacant on Niagara Square for a decade or longer- with each passing day the "tear it down" crowd will grow. Perhaps we have to wait for a better economy, additional preservation tax credits and the right deep-pocketed developer to come along.

[westcoastperspective]

Summary of Announced/Completed/Started downtown projects last year-

http://www.buffalorising.com/2010/01/2009-downtown-development-recap.html

http://img85.imageshack.us/img85/5892/mapee.png