Terminal B Abandoned Warehouse and 7 Acres of Contaminated, Inaccessible Property Will Be Transformed into Outdoor Events Center
Photos Available Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the start of construction on a $13 million outdoor entertainment pavilion on Buffalo's Outer Harbor. The project will renovate the long-abandoned Terminal B warehouse into an events center that utilizes existing parking and reclaims seven acres of contaminated property to open additional public access with scenic new lake views. The project will also beautify the habitat with new trees, shrubs and meadow areas, and add diverse plants to support migrating and nesting birds. Construction is expected to be completed by Fall of 2023.
"Projects like Terminal B's transformation are critical to my administration's continuing efforts to invigorate and elevate the unique cultural attractions that make Buffalo so special," Governor Hochul said. "I am incredibly excited for the opportunity the pavilion will provide New Yorkers to appreciate my hometown's beautiful waterfront in a whole new way."
"This new, one-of-a kind events center will convert abandoned and contaminated property into performance space and access to revitalized green space," Lieutenant Governor Benjamin said. "This $13 million investment is an important part of the on-going work to ensure that all New Yorkers can enjoy the natural beauty of Buffalo's waterfront."
This project, which takes up only 5% of the 200-acre property, is just one part of a comprehensive plan developed over five years with the community and stakeholders. 30 feet high and occupying approximately 100,000 square feet in area, the metal framed warehouse Terminal B rests on a landfill created from dumped material dating back over a half century ago and is currently inaccessible to the public. The renovation will reduce the terminal to its metal frame and concrete deck, a portion of which will become a canopied stage. There will be a green room for performers and another for mechanicals built inside the space. A sloped lawn, new landscaping and stairs will be added to enhance accessibility. The existing asphalt drive will be renovated with a secondary walkway added around the sloped lawn connecting to the existing Lakeside Lawn and circulation path. Site lighting and other security measures will be installed near the structure and along the pedestrian paths leading to the main entry.
The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra will be amongst the many performers using the space for future concerts.
Funding for the project is being provided by Empire State Development (ESD) and ECHDC via the New York Power Authority through relicensing agreements tied to the operation of the Niagara Power Project.