Governor Andrew Cuomo Announces Completion of Longshed Building at Canalside on Buffalo's Waterfront
October 15, 2020
Project Adds to Transformation of Revitalized Waterfront and
Reflects the Ship Building History of the Site
See Photos of the Longshed Here
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the completion of construction on the $5.1 million Longshed building on the northern end of the Central Wharf at Canalside in Buffalo. The two-story, gabled-roof wood structure reflects the Central Wharf site's history by incorporating elements from the Joy and Webster Storehouse located on the site in the early 1800s. The approximately 4,400-square-foot Longshed includes a main floor which stretches the length of the building, a smaller mezzanine level, public bathrooms, roll-up entry doors, and an exterior porch that overlooks the Canalside lawn.
"This exciting project is just the latest positive economic development to advance at Canalside," Governor Cuomo said. "Western New Yorkers using Canalside as a retreat during these stressful times will appreciate a new attraction that adds to the overall transformation of the waterfront, while also celebrating the historic shipping industry that helped shape the Queen City."
The wood-frame building will initially be used by staff and volunteers from the Buffalo Maritime Center to construct a replica of the 1825 Seneca Chief packet boat, which transported Governor DeWitt Clinton from Buffalo to New York City to mark the official opening of the Erie Canal. The packet boat project is expected to take about three years to complete. During that time, the public will be able to watch the boat being built and even volunteer to join the construction crew. Those wishing to volunteer should visit the Buffalo Maritime Center's website at https://buffalomaritimecenter.org/.
"Buffalo is experiencing a resurgence, but we are making an effort to preserve our history and tell our unique story with attractions like the Longshed," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "The Erie Canal was instrumental in the growth of Buffalo and Western New York and continues to play a large role in its future as Canalside has become a year-round destination. We will continue to find ways to stimulate the local economy bringing tourists here as we build back better, smarter and stronger for the post-pandemic future."