In the past, we’ve seen concerned neighbors and block clubs approach the city, asking that partially uncovered cobblestone streets be restored fully. Today there are shining new examples of old world cobblestone streets that were previously covered by asphalt. Now Steve Cichon (Buffalo Stories) is asking that preservation measures be taken with historic medina sandstone street curbs wherever possible.
Steve points to the road construction project along Parkside Avenue as an excellent example of identifying an opportunity that might otherwise be lost.
Considered rare and beautiful and used sparing around the world in buildings like Buckingham Palace, Buffalo was lucky to be so close to the Orleans County quarry where the red rock came from that entire churches and buildings, and yes, even curbs were made from the stuff.
Granite curbs are now replacing what is left of Buffalo’s Medina sandstone curbs, for numerous reasons. Steve is not calling for the curbs to remain along Parkside, rather he is calling for the curbs to be reused in other historic neighborhoods.
Steve points out that while the historic curbs might no longer be appropriate for the modern day street conditions along Parkside Avenue, the curbs should be reclaimed and reused in historic neighborhoods that still cherish their old red curbs (which might be gap-tooth at this time). Sourcing new Medina sandstone is out of the question due to cost, practicality and availability. That means the only way to retain the historic curb appeal is to stockpile these stones along the way.
I love the look of the Medina sandstone curbs which have been in front of my house for more than 100 years, but if they have to be replaced, I’d love for the stone to be used in some other project so that the red curbs might be able to be saved there.
Steve is asking that the City Engineering and Public Works Departments find a way to preserve the Medina sandstone curbs that are being replaced. He is also asking Common Council to create a law to make sure that this simple request be put into action.
Too much of our city’s heritage had been lost to indifference and mismanagement. Here’s a case where that doesn’t have to happen, and we can stop putting one of Buffalo’s unique features to the curb.
If nothing else, the Medina sandstone could be used in other projects throughout the city – from art projects to community gardens.
Lead image: Medina sandstone curbs have been in front of Steve’s house for more than 100 years