Councilmember David Rivera is sponsoring a meeting to give the community an opportunity to view plans for 990 Niagara Street: Wednesday, May 10, 6:00 pm, Niagara Branch Library (corner of Porter and Prospect). Andrew Crossed from Park Grove Realty and the architect will be present the project for attendees. The owner and developer are seeking a variance from the zoning board because of the height proposed for the building. Vision Niagara had an opportunity to meet and discuss the project. We are pleased that the zoning board tabled the variance request until the community has an opportunity to offer feedback.
This project will have positive impacts on the neighborhood in bringing more residents who will potentially support local businesses. It is a project that can bring needed investment and potentially spark more of the same. We welcome the increased density and urban infill. The enclosed parking is also a benefit.
At the same time, our waterfront is on the verge of becoming another example of high rent districts that could displace existing residents. Buffalo’s “renaissance” makes city living more desirable, but as developers find opportunities to create more high-end housing, rents throughout the City rise. Families who have lived in the same Buffalo neighborhoods for generations are rapidly becoming “priced out.” In fact, several organizations, including Partners for The Public Good and Heart of the City have requested a policy of Inclusionary zoning in the City of Buffalo that would require developers to include 30% of all units be made affordable to those in our community with incomes at or below 60% of area median income.
This project and potential new ones on the horizon begin to close off the already limited open views from Niagara Street to Niagara River and Canada. We ask the developers to consider making a commitment to work collaboratively with our membership to preserve the last available green spaces, especially those with views to the water, for the benefit of Niagara Street patrons, current residents, and visitors to our community. We are sure that visually connecting Niagara Street to the water will not only enhance the value of this project, but as well, will help to brand Niagara Street as a waterfront boulevard, will serve to beautify the area, and will continue to ensure that this a place where folks want to work, visit and play.
