Greenway Fund Standing Committee Approves Six Projects in Western New York

The New York Power Authority (NYPA) has announced that six different organizations will be benefactors of $2.6 million in grant funding for beautification projects. These beautification projects – approved by the Buffalo and Erie County Greenway Fund Standing Committee – all share one key thing in common – they are all situated along the Buffalo and Erie County portions of the Niagara River Greenway. The funding is made possible thanks to the relicensing agreement for the continued operation of the Power Authority’s Niagara Power Project. As part of a 50-year agreement, the New York Power Authority will provide more than $1 billion to Western New York.

The Greenway Fund Standing Committee approved the following projects for funding:

The Buffalo Lighthouse Association received $175,000 to replace the station roof and support ongoing repairs addressing damage from severe weather events. The funding will help the corporation preserve the historic lighthouse structures of Buffalo Harbor and the city’s rich maritime history.

The Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper was awarded $324,094 to support the ongoing efforts to create and upgrade public water access sites along the Buffalo River and Outer Harbor. The funding will allow for the installation of 15 markers, that identify designated public access points, helping visitors and residents safely enjoy the waterfront. 

The Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy was allocated $985,000 to support the ongoing South Park Clubhouse enhancement project. The funding will make the facility ADA accessible and support reconstruction and restoration of the great room, which sustained fire and water damage. 

Erie County was granted $450,000 for the Isle View Park enhancement project to improve transportation infrastructure and strengthen vehicular, pedestrian, and cyclists access to the park.  

Erie County was also awarded $350,000 for the Two Mile Creek and Sherwood Trail Renovation Project. The funding is intended for the design and construction of the repairs to the Two Mile Creek Trail and Sherwood Greenway Trail. The trails connect the Town and City of Tonawanda to the waterfront and the Shoreline Trail regional muti-use trail system. 

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority received $323,034 for capital improvements that will enhance bicycle and pedestrian access to the DL&W station. 

New York Power Authority Board Chairman John R. Koelmel said, “NYPA is proud to support these projects with more than $2.6 million in funding. As part of our commitments under the Niagara Power Project’s relicensing, we remain dedicated to working closely with local leaders and community partners to strengthen infrastructure, enhance waterfront access, and deliver lasting benefits for Western New Yorkers.” 

Greenway Committee Chair, Erie County Representative and Erie County Department of Environment and Planning Commissioner Daniel Castle said, “This Greenway funding advances our ongoing commitment to preserving and improving the Niagara River Greenway’s unique natural, cultural, historic, and recreational resources. These investments will expand opportunities for the public to enjoy our waterfront and create meaningful, long-term benefits for communities and visitors throughout Western New York.”

More information on the committee can be found on the Power Authority’s website.