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Governor Hochul Announces Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy, City of Buffalo, and Partners Break Ground on Future Ralph Wilson Park

$110 Million of Collaborative Investment to Fulfill Community's Vision to Transform the Former LaSalle Park into a One-of-a-Kind, World-Class Park on Buffalo's Waterfront

Phase I Construction Includes a Signature Pedestrian Bridge for Improved Access, Ball Field Improvements and Shoreline Rehabilitation

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the City of Buffalo and the Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy broke ground on Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park ("Ralph Wilson Park"), a 99-acre, world-class park located on Buffalo's waterfront. Rooted in the guidance of "Imagine LaSalle," the community-driven visioning process for the former LaSalle Park, Ralph Wilson Park will undergo a $110 million transformation into one of the most beautiful and inclusive public spaces in the country, serving nearby residents and visitors from across the region and beyond. The park's name honors the legacy of the late entrepreneur, veteran, and philanthropist Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. It is expected to be complete in late 2025. Renderings can be accessed here.

"Generations of Buffalo Bills fans knew of founder Ralph Wilson's commitment to Buffalo and generosity during his life," Governor Kathy Hochul said. "The groundbreaking of Ralph Wilson Park will bring a collaborative transformation of this waterfront park into a vibrant community space, where future generations will enjoy gathering for many years to come. This will ensure Ralph Wilson's love for our community continues to make an impact."

Conservancy Board President Belanger said, "This is Buffalo's largest waterfront park and has been an integral part of the Western New York community since 1932, when it hosted the City of Buffalo's centennial celebration. Development of this scale happens once in a lifetime. Ralph Wilson Park will rank among the country's best parks and profoundly impact our neighborhoods. Generations of Buffalonians will gather here and make memories that last a lifetime. We are proud to be working with partners throughout the community to help this park reach its full potential as a destination for Western New Yorkers and visitors from across the region and beyond."

Mayor Byron W. Brown said, "In October 2018, Mary Wilson came to Buffalo and warmed our City's collective heart by announcing the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation would invest $50 million to help my Administration's efforts to transform the former LaSalle Park into a world-class, waterfront destination that would make the most of the natural beauty of this one-of-its-kind setting. Today's groundbreaking is a major milestone in the inclusive and transparent planning process to create a 'people's park' that will be enjoyed by the neighboring community, and all Buffalo residents, for generations to come."

Read the full press release here.