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Press Release
Wednesday, October 19, 2022 - 4:46pm
FAA Approves New York's Entire 50-Mile Drone Corridor for UAS Operations Following Nearly $113 Million State Investment to Boost New York's UAS Ecosystem
Drone Corridor Administrator NUAIR also Secures Agreement with Quebec Based Vports to Develop International Advanced Air Mobility Corridor
New York State Investments Complement "CNY Rising" - The Region's Comprehensive Strategy to Revitalize Communities and Grow the Economy
Footage of Drone Corridor Flight Available Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that the New York Unmanned Aircraft Systems Test Site has secured approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to fly uncrewed aircraft systems - commonly referred to as drones - beyond visual line of sight across the entire 50 miles of airspace within New York's Drone Corridor. This flight authority will give NUAIR, the uncrewed aircraft systems corridor operator, the ability to fly civilian drones from Syracuse International Airport to Griffiss International Airport in Rome without the need of visual observers. The FAA designation will help to unlock the full potential and economic advantage of commercial drone and advanced air mobility operations, including cargo and passenger transport via uncrewed aircraft.
"New York's state-of-the-art drone corridor further cements the state's position as the global leader in this evolving market for cutting-edge drone technology," Governor Hochul said. "Through our continued investment and focus on drone corridor operations, we are strengthening and growing the regional economies in Central New York, the Mohawk Valley, and statewide for generations to come."
Governor Hochul also announced that the state will be providing NUAIR with an additional $21 million in CNY Rising Upstate Revitalization Initiative funding to cultivate the world-leading UAS industry hub along the corridor in Central New York and the Mohawk Valley. The project will allow for critical infrastructure to be tested and deployed to enable advanced industry applications, state agency adoption of UAS, and associated workforce development.
New York State's uncrewed aircraft systems Test Site, owned by Oneida County, is one of only seven Federal Aviation Administration-designated uncrewed aircraft systems test sites in the nation.
NUAIR already is assisting a multitude of state agencies to integrate drones into their operations including bridge and infrastructure inspections with the NYS Thruway Authority, environmental conservation with the NYS DEC and more. This extended FAA designation and additional funding will drive UAS industry innovation in New York State, allowing for the further development of cost-effective, and ecologically conscious drone operations that will supplement vital supply chains throughout New York State.
Read the full press release here.
Press Release
Monday, October 17, 2022 - 7:00pm
Training Facility to Employ 577 Home Health Aides Within Five Years
Project Supports Workforce Pipeline for Growing Health Care Sector
Empire State Development (ESD) today announced the opening of Sunnyside Community Services' (SCS) new $4.3 million state-of-the-art home health aide training facility in Long Island City, Queens. The more than 7,700 square foot facility will allow SCS to maximize its existing home health aide training and employment programs to better train, place, and provide professional development to hundreds of home health aides annually. The facility includes three classrooms, a group meeting room, private counseling spaces, a lab practicum and equipment room, a pantry for kitchen training activities, offices and a dedicated reception area. New equipment - including smart boards, laptops, TV monitors, beds, lifts, and mannequins – will ensure that home health aides and trainees receive technologically-enhanced training and education experiences.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The COVID-19 pandemic spotlighted a growing, ongoing need for trained and qualified home health aides, who are essential to the health and well-being of countless New Yorkers. Sunnyside Community Services' new state-of-the-art training facility addresses that need, through a workforce development program that will lead to jobs and opportunity for those aiming to learn vital healthcare skills.”
Empire State Development supported the facility through $750,000 capital grant, recommended by the New York City Regional Economic Development Council. The project aligns with and reflects New York State's efforts to close the skills gap by preparing individuals to enter career paths in the growing healthcare industry while expanding the workforce pipeline in a critical field. ESD’s grant will also support the creation of 577 new home health aides within five years.
Sunnyside Community Service’s Home Health Aide Training Program helps unemployed and underemployed individuals, primarily immigrant women, enter a career in the growing healthcare field. The four-week free training is offered in both Spanish and English and is open to those without a high school diploma or who have limited work experience. Participants learn how to help home care clients with their daily living activities and basic health needs – such as such as getting dressed, preparing meals, and going to appointments - through a curriculum that includes core subjects, as well as specialty training for the care of patients with neuromuscular disorders. Upon completion of the program, graduates receive certification by the New York State Department of Health.
New York City Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Winston Fisher, Partner at Fisher Brothers, and Dr. Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, City University of New York Chancellor, said, “Sunnyside Community Services’ new facility, which encompasses its home health aide training program and other services that are vital to the surrounding community, represents a strategic public-private partnership. Expanding the pipeline of trained home health aide professionals reflects our commitment to creating quality jobs, while also ensuring quality care for those who depend on home health aides every day.”
Sunnyside Community Services Executive Director Judy Zangwill said, “As the city’s population of older adults continues to grow, it is imperative that our communities prepare by increasing the number of people entering the healthcare field. Our new space in Long Island City will allow us to train more people to carry out the vital work performed by home health aides. Homebound New Yorkers depend on home health aides for assistance with daily activities like preparing meals and getting dressed. With this new location, Sunnyside Community Services will not only be helping some of our city’s most vulnerable residents, but we will also be providing jobs and an entryway into the healthcare field for underemployed and unemployed residents. We are so thankful for the financial support provided for this project by Empire State Development. With their help, we will be able to increase the number of people trained in our Home Health Aide Training Program. This will make a significant difference to many homebound New Yorkers. We also are grateful for the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado and their commitment to improving the lives of New York residents.”
Assemblymember Catherine Nolan said, “It is so exciting to see Sunnyside Community Services’ expansion into Long Island City. This welcome expansion will provide adult educational opportunities, while also supporting our senior citizen population. Professional home health aides play a vital role in our healthcare system, and the advancement of this sector requires and deserves our attention and investment. I am proud to have long supported this project. Congratulations to Sunnyside Community Services, executive director Judy Zangwill, TF Cornerstone, Jon McMillan, Empire State Development, community leaders, and all who have worked to make this project a reality.”
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. said, “With the need for home health care aides on the rise as our population ages, it is important we have enough trained people ready to work in this area. The opening of this training facility is a major step forward in ensuring Queens residents can take advantage of the opportunities available in this fast-growing field. I congratulate Governor Hochul, Empire State Development and Sunnyside Community Services on the successful completion of this facility, and commend our State government on all of its efforts to promote economic growth through workforce development.”
Today's announcement complements Governor Hochul's reimagined approach to strategic, collaborative and equitable workforce development to encourage economic growth across New York State, including the creation of the Office of Strategic Workforce Development, which will be charged with improving the State's workforce development programs and practices to better align with the needs and priorities of today's employers. This new office will be established within Empire State Development and will be guided by the Regional Economic Development Councils. Governor Hochul first proposed the Office of Strategic Workforce Development in her State of the State address earlier this year and committed funding that was approved in the FY2023 budget.
About Empire State Development
Empire State Development (ESD) is New York’s chief economic development agency. The mission of ESD is to promote a vigorous and growing economy, encourage the creation of new job and economic opportunities, increase revenues to the State and its municipalities, and achieve stable and diversified local economies. Through the use of loans, grants, tax credits and other forms of financial assistance, ESD strives to enhance private business investment and growth to spur job creation and support prosperous communities across New York State. ESD is also the primary administrative agency overseeing Governor Cuomo’s Regional Economic Development Councils and the marketing of "I LOVE NY," the State’s iconic tourism brand. For more information on Regional Councils and Empire State Development, please visit www.regionalcouncils.ny.gov and www.esd.ny.gov.
About Sunnyside Community Services
Sunnyside Community Services (SCS) is a community-based nonprofit centered on the belief that every person deserves meaningful support to achieve their aspirations – especially struggling families and individuals. SCS serves a diverse community of over 16,000 people of all ethnicities and income levels throughout Queens with programs that range from pre-K to college and career readiness, home care and home health aide training, Beacon and Cornerstone community centers for children and families, a vibrant senior center and full range of services for at-risk older adults including social adult day care for individuals with Alzheimer’s, and a city-wide program of supportive services for those who care for them. With programs designed to enrich lives and strengthen communities through services and engagement for individuals at all ages, beginning with those most in need, SCS has been lighting up lives with programs as diverse as the people they serve since 1974. For more information visit www.scsny.org.
Contact:
Emily Mijatovic | [email protected] | (212) 803-3692
Press Release
Monday, October 17, 2022 - 5:17pm
Project brings new residential, commercial opportunities to Third Street Business District
USA Niagara Development Corporation (USAN) today announced that 466 Third Street in Niagara Falls is now complete, adding value to the Third Street Business District and providing new residential and commercial opportunities. Cataract Development Corporation rehabbed and renovated the former USAN-owned property into a mixed-use development with eight apartment units and two commercial storefronts. The project also included updating the building’s systems and facade. See pictures here.
This project was completed as part of Governor Kathy Hochul’s Niagara Falls Strategic Land Acquisition Program.
“USAN, under Governor Hochul’s leadership, is working hard to create a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood on Third Street with commercial, retail and residential development that reflects multiple market segments and will also ultimately draw more tourists and visitors to downtown Niagara Falls,” said USAN President Anthony Vilardo. “Cataract Development Corporation’s 466 Third Street site is a model for the type of project that is critical for the continued development of this district.”
“We are very pleased with the end result of our latest downtown Niagara Falls rehab project,” said Cataract Development Corporation President Matt Cafarella. “The residential portion of this property located at 466 Third has been vacant and extremely dilapidated for almost two decades. The amount of damage to the structure made this very challenging. I’m proud of the work of our crews at Cafarella Concrete that made this happen in such a fast timeframe. We want to thank USA Niagara and the City of Niagara Falls for their assistance getting this project to the finish line.”
In August 2018, the USAN Board of Directors approved acquisition of several properties, including 466 Third Street, as part of the strategic land-acquisition program funded through New York State. The program is intended to assemble long-dormant properties near Niagara Falls State Park, to remove blight from the downtown area and expand the density of uses in the area, with a goal of establishing a year-round, sustainable neighborhood. USAN accepted Cataract Development Corporation’s proposal to rehabilitate and renovate the building and purchase the property from USAN.
The property includes: two first-floor commercial spaces, currently leased by local pizzeria Donatello’s Restaurant and the Hammer & Crown Brewing Co.; and eight apartment units, including six studios and two one-bedroom apartments. Cataract Development Corporation invested $550,000 to rehabilitate and renovate the apartments portion of the building.
City of Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino said, “Cataract Development Corporation’s completion of 466 Third Street is a positive step in re-creating a vibrant downtown business district. As one of several properties purchased by USAN, our City is hopeful that this is the beginning of further productive development of these long dormant properties. Congratulations to Cataract Development Corporation on the successful completion of this project.”
Cataract Development Corporation, based in Niagara Falls, owns other properties in the Third Street neighborhood, and has a history of rehabilitating once thriving, locally significant buildings and restoring their former glory—while making them sustainable for the future. It aims to enhance the surrounding neighborhood, both aesthetically and functionally, while creating a valued, accessible and successful residential and commercial community.
About USA Niagara Development Corporation
USAN, a subsidiary of Empire State Development, is solely dedicated to the support and promotion of economic development initiatives in Niagara Falls by leveraging private investment and encouraging growth and renewal of the tourism industry in the City of Niagara Falls. For more information, visit https://esd.ny.gov/usa-niagara-development-corporation-6.
Contact:
Pamm Lent | [email protected] | (716) 846-8309
Laura Magee | [email protected] | (716) 846-8239
Public Notice
Monday, October 17, 2022 - 2:00pm
View all grants to be presented at the batch virtual public hearing.
Press Release
Monday, October 17, 2022 - 12:34pm
$115 Million Pay for Performance Grant Program Will Support Training Programs Offering Industry-Recognized Credentials and Certifications in High-Demand Fields
$35 Million Workforce Development Capital Grant Program Will Help Education and Workforce Training Providers with Capital Expenses to Provide Programs for an Evolving Jobs Landscape
Fulfills Governor Hochul's State of the State Commitment to Help Meet Employer Needs, Increase Training Capacity, and Position New York Job Seekers to Fill High-Quality, In-Demand Jobs
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of New York State's $150 million workforce development grant programs, administered by the newly-formed Office of Strategic Workforce Development within Empire State Development. The $115 million Pay for Performance Grant Program and the $35 million Workforce Development Capital Grant Program are designed to meet New York State's workforce needs, increase the capacity of workforce training providers, and position New Yorkers to fill high-quality, in-demand jobs. The grant programs represent the latest piece of the state's reimagined approach to strategic, collaborative and equitable workforce development to encourage economic growth.
"With this $150 million investment in the state's workforce, we are standing by our commitment to making New York the most business-friendly and worker-friendly state in the nation," Governor Hochul said. "I announced the new Office of Strategic Workforce Development in my State of the State address to ensure that New York is building its workforce from all sides - both by attracting high-growth companies to our state and developing top-tier talent to fill the jobs they bring. Thanks to this investment, we are helping to fill critical roles all over the state and preparing New York job seekers for careers of the future."
The full program guidelines and links to the Consolidated Funding Applications are available on the Office of Strategic Workforce Development's website here. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis and awards are expected to be announced every two months beginning in December. The deadline for applications for the first round of grant funding is November 14, 2022.
Governor Hochul first proposed the new Office of Strategic Workforce Development in her State of the State address and established the office in April 2022 to better meet the needs of industry and create career opportunities for New Yorkers. The Office will work with workforce training providers to support industry-driven training that provides in-demand skills and direct job placement. Additionally, ESD will work hand-in-hand with the state's 10 Regional Economic Development Councils, which will engage with local stakeholders and help to identify specific skills and industries to prioritize in each region in the post-pandemic economy. The goal is to encourage new economic opportunities for unemployed, underemployed and underrepresented workers, while meeting the needs of businesses in targeted tradable sectors. Funding for the Office of Strategic Workforce Development and these grant programs was included as part of the FY23 State Budget.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "For New York State to grow and thrive in the 21st century, we need to invest in the programs that provide and create opportunities for more New Yorkers to learn the skills that employers need. These grants will help to create a 'future-ready' workforce - one that includes people who have traditionally faced barriers to employment - so that we can attract new businesses, grow good jobs, and create a more diverse and resilient New York State economy."
Read the full press release here.
Press Release
Friday, October 14, 2022 - 4:35pm
Stephen Gawlik, Senior Counsel for Empire State Development, Jeremy Toth, County Attorney for Erie County, and Ron Raccuia, Executive Vice President/COO for the Buffalo Bills released the following statement after all three parties agreed to extend the exclusivity period until 30 days after final determination on the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQRA) by Erie County:
"New York State, Erie County and the Buffalo Bills have made considerable progress and are actively negotiating the final agreements and contracts. As the environmental review process moves forward, we will continue to work towards finalizing all agreements and look forward to breaking ground on a new stadium next year.”
Press Release
Saturday, October 8, 2022 - 1:24pm
New York State Funding of $6.5 Million Supports Major Expansion of Public Space
New Public Space to Host Free Community-Based Public Programming
Reimagined Hall Supports Revitalization of New York State's Tourism Industry
Governor Kathy Hochul today joined Lincoln Center and New York Philharmonic leadership to announce the opening of the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts' new $550 million David Geffen Hall. The reimagined home of the world-renowned New York Philharmonic has opened two years ahead of schedule with expanded access to public space for the community. The project has transformed David Geffen Hall into an illustrious venue that will further enrich New York City as a vibrant destination for the culture and arts.
"The transformation of David Geffen Hall is a pitch-perfect addition to one of New York's premier concert venues at the iconic Lincoln Center," Governor Hochul said. "Thanks to our well-orchestrated partnership, this project will boost New York's cultural and economic life with additional jobs, vibrant community space, and a new and improved concert hall two years ahead of schedule. Our arts institutions play a pivotal role as economic drivers, community centers, and cultural anchors, and I am excited for all of the music New Yorkers will experience and enjoy in this beautiful new home."
Empire State Development provided $6.5 million to support the transformation of David Geffen Hall, including the renovation and expansion of approximately 21,000 square feet of public space in and around the hall, which is open to the public without the need for a concert ticket:
The Welcome Center: A 1,680 square foot space that is equipped with stations for refreshments and seating to receive tickets and information for all Lincoln Center programming.
The Lobby: The newly expanded Lobby has installed a large media display which provides a digital platform for simulcast concerts, artworks, digital messaging among other uses.
The Sidewalk Studio: A multipurpose space open to the public for performances, lectures, classes, screenings, community programming and more.
With Empire State Development's support, Lincoln Center has committed to creating 114 new full-time jobs, ranging from box office to stage crew and security, as well as launching a diversity and arts fellowship program that will provide paid training and mentorship for at least five Fellows over a five-year period. Lincoln Center commits to hosting at least 45 days of new free public programming per year for the first five years across the public spaces within David Geffen Hall.
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, "Economic development works like a symphony, with each player creatively but collaboratively contributing their part. The work we've done in harmony with our partners on the new David Geffen Hall is creating the welcome sounds of added jobs, tourism and opportunity, through beautifully reimagined spaces where people can appreciate the uniqueness of Lincoln Center and New York City."
Read the full press release here.
Report
Friday, October 7, 2022 - 12:00pm
View the Report
Press Release
Thursday, October 6, 2022 - 4:12pm
Islanders Fans, Concert Attendees Can Now Take Westbound Trains Directly to UBS Arena
New Platforms at Elmont-UBS Arena Station Are Accessible and Feature Modern Amenities Including Overpass that Allows Customers to Cross Safely Between Eastbound and Westbound Platforms
Elmont-UBS Arena Station Will Be a Full-Service Station This Year
Station Includes New Artwork Unveiled Today, Cyclical Everything, by Shawna X
View Photos of the Event Here
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the Metropolitan Transportation Authority Long Island Rail Road Elmont-UBS Arena Station, the first new LIRR station in almost 50 years, can now accommodate both eastbound and westbound trains on UBS Arena event days and will begin full-time year-round service by the end of 2022. Starting today, Long Islanders who live east of Belmont Park will have a one-seat ride straight to UBS Arena events. This will reduce travel times and is expected to increase the number of event attendees who use public transportation, helping alleviate traffic congestion on Long Island. Those traveling from New York City can now directly return after events on many trains without the need to board a shuttle bus to Queens Village Station that had been offered last year.
"Having both modern, accessible platforms open at the world-class Elmont-UBS Arena Station is a victory for Long Island and the State of New York," Governor Hochul said. "New Yorkers will now enjoy a smoother ride to and from Islanders games and concerts, and I look forward to continuing to bring transformative projects like this one to all corners of the Empire State."
"Infrastructure is what makes it possible for the state and Long Island to flourish both socially and economically," said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado. "With projects like the Main Line Third Track, Grand Central Madison and this new Elmont-UBS Arena station, New York is providing Long Islanders and visitors to the island with a modern, world class, resilient railroad system which will also help reduce traffic congestion."
Construction of the new station comes at zero cost to the LIRR and MTA. Arena developers and New York State partnered to fully finance the estimated $105 million project. Of the total cost, more than 90% was paid by the arena developers with New York State contributing the remainder. The State's contribution is a fraction of the new tax revenue the project is expected to generate. This project shows the transformation that public private partnerships can have on public transportation.
Elmont-UBS Arena station features two 12-car-long, high-level platforms with canopies, USB charging stations, Help Points, security cameras, digital signs with train arrival information, Wi-Fi, and a state-of-the-art snow melting system embedded in the concrete of the platforms to ensure they remain free of snow and ice during winter storms. The new station is fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, featuring a wide pedestrian overpass designed to accommodate large crowds and two elevators, one for each platform.
MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said, "UBS Arena has had a schedule filled with huge events since it opened last fall and with both platforms now in service New Yorkers will have direct railroad access to Islanders games, concerts and more other events. Together with completion of the Third Track and opening of service to Grand Central Terminal, this on-time, on-budget Elmont project shows how we are dramatically increasing service, convenience, and options for LIRR customers."
Long Island Rail Road Interim President and Metro-North Railroad President Catherine Rinaldi said, "The MTA has made a massive investment in Long Island's future with mega-projects like the third track on the Main Line, a new LIRR concourse at Penn Station, and a new terminal at Grand Central Madison. Elmont-UBS Arena Station is an example of the great things that can be done by investing in local infrastructure. Having both platforms now open creates a new option for people to get to events at the arena and it will help improve the environment by reducing traffic on local roads."
MTA Construction & Development President Jamie Torres-Springer said, "This is the first new LIRR station in almost 50 years, delivered on time and under budget. Thanks to innovative construction techniques and dogged project management, we're meeting our promise to have Elmont-UBS Arena station ready for two-way service in advance of the new Islanders season."
Empire State Development Board Chairman Kevin Law said, "Having both westbound and eastbound platforms operational at Elmont-UBS Arena Station will enhance service for Long Islanders and spur economic activity by connecting commuters to businesses in the area and events at UBS Arena. Under Governor Hochul's leadership, New York State will continue to deliver modernized and improved service on railroads and subways that will get New Yorkers moving because economic growth and reliable mass transportation go hand in hand."
Read the full press release here.
Press Release
Thursday, October 6, 2022 - 3:39pm
See photo here
Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) today announced the unveiling of the renowned sculpture, Round Man on Buffalo’s Outer Harbor. Round Man, 20-foot steel sculpture is now located on the Greenway Nature Trail near the water’s edge, replacing Flat Man- the previous sculpture that became an immediate beacon on the waterfront, capturing the imaginations of thousands of people and becoming a social media star. Prior to its new home at the Outer Harbor, Round Man- like Flat Man- originated at Griffis Sculpture Park in East Otto, New York.
“Round Man now adds to the number of public artworks displayed on the city's waterfront, including the wind sculptures at Wilkeson Pointe and Shark Girl at Canalside,” said Robert Gioia, Chairman of ECHDC. “Lake Erie provides a magnificent backdrop for guests to experience art in the unique setting of the waterfront. We know that Round Man will be every bit as successful as Flat Man in attracting visitors to the Outer Harbor.”
Round Man, created in 1967 by Buffalo sculptor, Larry Griffis Jr., is an iconic piece that originated at Griffis Sculpture Park, one of the first and largest sculpture parks in North America. The sculpture, standing almost three stories high and weighing close to 2,500 lbs., Round Man has resided on the East Hill of Griffis Sculpture Park for over 55 years. One of the most loved features of the piece is his circular inclusivity. Prior to its installation on the Outer Harbor, the sculpture was refurbished at Essex Art Center on Buffalo’s West Side. The steel that makes up Round Man was designed and donate by Bethlehem Steel. This type of steel is the Mayari R Cor-Ten rod steel which is no longer in production today. It came directly from Griffis Sculpture Park to ensure that the refurbishing of Round Man had the same look and age of the existing steel.
The Round Man sculpture was part of a large commission that included The Dancer, Flat Man, Fecund Figures, Deserted, The Oracle and the Clown- which were fabricated at a warehouse on Niagara Street prior to the purchase of the Essex Arts Center. The sculptures were originally placed at Kissing Bridge Ski Resort but were moved in 1966 when The Ashford Hollow Foundation purchased 450 acres in East Otto, New York where they have stood as beacons welcoming visitors to the sculpture park.
Nila Griffis Lampman, Executive Director of the Ashford Hollow Foundation for the Visual and Performing Arts said, “Round Man is a magnificent sight at its new location on the waterfront. Larry Griffis would have been proud to see one of his works prominently displayed on Buffalo’s Outer Harbor. I want to thank the visionaries at ECHDC and everyone on our talented team for making this project possible.”
Round Man will be on loan from Griffis for five years. The specific location of the sculpture was chosen to be viewed by boaters, pedestrians, bike riders and other visitors at the Bell Slip.
ECHDC is committed to supporting public art along the waterfront. Multiple art installations have become a popular and dynamic part of both Canalside and the Outer Harbor including the wind sculptures at Wilkeson Pointe, Shark Girl, the Silent Poets and the Connecting Terminal Grain Elevator, the largest permanent light display to date.
Congressman Brian Higgins said, “Art creates an additional draw to public destinations and adds to the character of parks and public spaces. This is a welcome addition to the diverse range of sights and experiences available to visitors taking in Buffalo’s beautiful Outer Harbor.”
Mayor Byron W. Brown stated, “Some of the world’s most outstanding talent is right here in Western New York, and bringing the iconic Round Man sculpture, created by Buffalo Sculptor Larry Griffis Jr., to Buffalo’s Outer Harbor is yet another win-win for our waterfront and our community. As we work to continue to make Buffalo a more culturally vibrant and inclusive city, I thank Governor Kathy Hochul and the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation for their partnership to further expand the presence of public art in Buffalo, and along our beautiful waterfront, for everyone to enjoy.”
Senator Sean Ryan said, “Buffalo has a vibrant local art scene and our many well-known works of public art have become a big part of the city's character. Visitors to Griffis Sculpture Park have enjoyed Round Man for years and its new home on the Outer Harbor will expose thousands more to this great sculpture.”
Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “Within just a few years, Buffalo’s Outer Harbor has transformed into a place that reconnects Western New Yorkers to our region’s most treasured natural resource assets and simultaneously captures their imagination with creative, novel approaches to public art projects. Round Man will continue the artistic legacy of Flat Man and will add a vibrant dynamic to an area ripe for creative expression.”
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 nonvoting, ex-officio director positions are held by the Erie County Executive and the City of Buffalo Mayor. For more information on ECHDC, visit: www.eriecanalharbor.com.
Contacts:
Pamm Lent (Governor’s Office) | [email protected] | (716) 560-8815
Nila Lampman (Griffis Sculpture Park) | [email protected] | (716) 667-2808