Considering recent press circulating around the topic of Ohio Street and the Buffalo River, Thursday’s panel discussion comes at a perfect time. Ohio Street, the 1.3 mile ride from Canalside to Silo City is an exciting glimpse of the city’s future. Designcircuit, the co-organizers of tomorrow’s event, was originally drawn to the unique diversity of Ohio Street, and it’s logical link between the city and waterfront. In a recent conversation with Peter Dorsey, co-founder designcircuit, he noted “the city (Buffalo) is in the process of retooling and inventing it’s future. A linked situation is evolving, informed by the lessons of the past, fueling innovation, moving forward. At this crucial time it is essential to analyze and assess the city’s re-emergence.” In other words we have an important role to play as citizens of the Queen City, and the challenge is on us to participate actively. Thursday’s panel discussion is an opportunity to head down to the First Ward Community Association to help propel momentum and build consensus toward creating our future.
There is no question about the potential of Ohio Street given the variety of developable sites, waterfront access, and links to neighboring community districts (from Ganson St to Red Jacket Park to Tifft Nature Preserve to Perry Street ). The ride is about to receive some much needed improvements, thanks to the Erie County Harbor Development Corporation. Investment is already underway at 630 Ohio Street with the transformation of the former concrete shell transfer station into a city threshold for north bound travelers, and Buffalo Scholastic Club is poised to make the rowing club a destination for the water front community. This will further makes connections to the exciting developments at Canalside.
Culture and community are intertwined at Silo City, as citizens of the First Ward have front row seats to all the innovative programming hosted in the silos this summer (with more planned). One of the best sites in Buffalo is watching the Lake Boat Jackson navigate the natural serpentine line of the Buffalo River. It is this unique combination of proposed development and “as found” elements along the Ohio ride that give the district it’s personality and distinction in relation to the rest of the city and beyond.
Come down to the First Ward on Thursday, the discussion starts at 7pm. Bring a friend or two, and be an active agent in change. For further information visit the website: www.designcircuit.org
After, we’ll all head over the McCarthy’s to celebrate the First Ward properly.