Governor Hochul Announces Advancement of Transformational Redevelopment of North Aud Block at Buffalo's Canalside
April 17, 2023
Partners Chosen To Transform 2-Acre Vacant Parcel into Mixed-Use Commercial, Retail and Residential Spaces, Further Reconnecting Buffalo to its Historic Waterfront
Construction to Advance on $14.25 Million Canalside Gateway Building; Will Be First Building within Now-Vacant North Aud Block
Renderings of North Aud Block Here; Renderings of Canalside Gateway Building are Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced actions to advance construction of the Canalside Gateway Building and transformation of the North Aud Block in Buffalo, projects that are key to the ongoing revitalization of Buffalo's downtown and waterfront district. The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation met today and approved items related to both projects. Today's ECHDC authorizations are the latest project milestones in a series of related announcements by Governor Hochul. In May 2022, Governor Hochul announced the ECHDC's Request for Proposals for private development of the North Aud Block and in August 2022, Governor Hochul announced the acceleration of NYPA funding for the Buffalo Waterfront, including the Canalside Gateway Building.
"Canalside has become a destination location and catalyst for renewal of Buffalo's historic waterfront, and redeveloping the North Aud Block will continue to write the Buffalo comeback story," Governor Hochul said. "As we work to transform the Buffalo waterfront, this vacant parcel, the last of the state-owned parcels at Canalside, will boost the economy and create new spaces where residents and visitors will want to live, work and play."
In January 2022, the ECHDC Board adopted a Canalside Modified General Project Plan that described the community-supported development plan for the North Aud Block. The plan envisions transformation of the nearly 2-acre vacant parcel for a mix of commercial, retail and residential uses in several buildings that would reflect portions of the original 19th century street grid while also adapting and incorporating 21st century infrastructure and amenities. As adopted, the estimated development plan for the North Aud Block parcel includes nearly 425,000 gross square feet of development space and up to 450 parking spaces in a structured ramp. The Canalside North Aud Block development plan also includes the "Canalside Gateway Building," a multi-story, state-funded structure that will allow the ECHDC to manage site operations from a location within Canalside. The remainder of the North Aud Block will be dedicated to mixed-use development.