The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) Board of Directors met today and authorized ECHDC to enter into a $5.53 million contract with Savarino Companies, LLC, for construction of the Longshed Building at Canalside. The approximately 4,400- square-foot wood-frame structure will reflect the Central Wharf site’s history by incorporating elements from the Joy and Webster Storehouse located on the site in the early 1800s. Staff and volunteers with the Buffalo Maritime Center will work out of the building during its first three years while building a replica of an 1825 packet boat. Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced the state’s investment supporting the Longshed construction in August 2018. See renderings of the building here. To further facilitate this development, the board today also authorized ECHDC to acquire 0.23 acres from the City of Buffalo for $150,000.
“Our goal at Canalside has been to promote and incorporate architectural elements that celebrate and interpret the historical significance of the Erie Canal and its terminus,” said ECHDC Chairman Robert Gioia. “The Longshed will help facilitate that vision. I look forward to a ribbon cutting in the coming months.”
The wood-frame building, located at the northern end of the Central Wharf, will have vertical battens and a metal roof. It is expected to be completed in 2020.
For more than 15 years, Savarino Companies has been in the business of providing Western New York with service in the construction industry. It is currently working with ECHDC on the interior fit-out for the Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum, also located at Canalside.
The Board also today approved a contract amendment with Hamilton Houston Lownie Architects, LLC for construction administration, architectural and engineering services related to the Longshed. The amendment will add $170,000 to the original contract and extend the term of the contract through July 1, 2020.
The New York Power Authority is the funding source for the contract, contract amendment and for the purchase of property for the Longshed.
About Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation
The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) is governed by a nine-member board consisting of seven voting directors and two non-voting, ex-officio directors. The seven voting directors are recommended by the New York State Governor and are appointed by the New York State Urban Development Corporation d/b/a Empire State Development as sole shareholder of ECHDC. The two non-voting, ex-officio director positions are held by the Erie County Executive and the City of Buffalo Mayor.
As a subsidiary of Empire State Development, the state’s chief economic development agency, the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation supports and promotes the creation of infrastructure and public activities at Canalside, the Ohio Street corridor and the Outer Harbor that is attracting critical mass, private investment and enhance the enjoyment of the waterfront for residents and tourists in Western New York. Its vision is to revitalize Western New York’s waterfront and restore economic growth to Buffalo based on the region’s legacy of pride, urban significance and natural beauty.
Contact:
Pamm Lent | [email protected] | 716-846-8309 | (800) 260-7313
Laura Magee | [email protected] | 716-846-8239 | (800) 260-7313