Outer Harbor - In Construction & Future Development Projects
Slip 3 Ecological Restoration – In Progress
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Buffalo District and ECHDC are undertaking work on a new wetland ecosystem. The overall $14.8 million project, which will take 12 years to complete, aims to reverse coastal wetland degradation in the Niagara River system and across the Great Lakes. Decades of industrial development and hardening of shorelines have diminished fish nursery and spawning habitats in these areas. The project is being conducted in three phases – construction of the breakwater (completed in 2024), placement of dredged material (ongoing through 2028), and formation of aquatic and sub-aquatic habitat.
Pedestrian Path between Terminal B and Quay Wall – Coming 2027
This project, which will begin construction in 2026, includes improvements to the pedestrian path located between the Terminal B concert structure and the quay wall. Improvements will include a guardrail for the quay wall, repair of the quay wall top, restoration of the existing structure and the design of a public pathway connecting the existing Greenway Nature Trail from the north of the site around the entire southwest corner of the property and back to the Industrial Heritage Trail.
New Cruise Ship Facility – Coming 2027
Based on interest by cruise companies, it is expected that Buffalo could serve as a Great Lakes cruise port as early as 2027. The project aims to reimagine the current Slip 2 site for cruise ship docking for both domestic and international travel. Site improvements will include upgrades to seawall shoring; site remediation; improved public access; landscaping, drainage, lighting, and a small parking lot. The scope of work also includes design of one or two small, single-story buildings for customs processing and public restroom facilities. ECHDC has entered into a contract for design services and construction administration.