An exciting and transformative idea is taking shape in our city—the NFTA Metro expansion. This ambitious project has been a topic of discussion since as far back as 1979 and aims to extend high quality transit from University Station through Amherst and Tonawanda to the UB North Campus and I 990. One of the main goals is to drive economic growth and enhance accessibility by providing a convenient 15-minute commute from University Station to UB North Campus with ten new stops.
At last Thursday’s drop-in listening session, the air was thick with opinions and aspirations. Project manager Jeffery Amplement encapsulated the project’s essence, highlighting the significant economic opportunities tied to connecting major economic generators like the UB North Campus. The session, more than just an informative meeting, was a platform for the voices of Buffalo – from concerned residents to hopeful students.
UB senior Rayna Cooke’s words resonated with many, envisioning the project as a catalyst for making the university more desirable and accessible, thus enhancing its appeal. Meanwhile, Tonawanda resident and business owner David Stinner spoke passionately about the project’s long-term implications, envisioning Buffalo as a future global city.
But every coin has two sides. Phil Basinski, owner of Sweeney’s Garage, voiced a historical apprehension, recalling the impact of the light rail’s installation in the 1970s on Main Street businesses. This perspective echoes in the concerns of Mike Nigrin, who leads the “Stop the Metro” campaign, citing issues like the potential disruption to local communities and businesses.
The debate is not just about routes and rails; it’s a deeper dialogue on Buffalo’s future. Supporters see the expansion as a green, efficient solution to urban congestion, appealing to a younger generation that favors public transit over car ownership. Opponents, however, worry about the economic impact on local businesses and the potential repeat of past mistakes.
Jeffery Amplement, steering this significant undertaking, emphasizes the project’s alignment with modern transit preferences and its role in alleviating traffic and congestion issues. The “Let’s Grow Metro” campaign champions this vision, advocating for change and growth.
As Buffalo stands at this crossroads, the conversation extends beyond the tracks of the NFTA-Metro expansion. It’s a dialogue about progress, preservation, and the kind of city Buffalo aspires to become. With the project’s estimated cost rising due to inflation and construction costs, and a timeline stretching over the next 7-8 years, the debate is as much about the present as it is about the future. In this ever-evolving narrative, the voices of Buffalo’s residents continue to shape the path forward, each perspective adding a vital piece to the puzzle of the city’s destiny.
Lead image: Photo by @tariqthephotographer2024