Author: Buffalo Rising

Sometimes the authors at Buffalo Rising work on collaborative efforts in order to cover various events and stories. These posts can not be attributed to one single author, as it is a combined effort. Often times a formation of a post gets started by one writer and passed along to one or more writers before completion. At times there are author attributions at the end of one of these posts. Other times, “Buffalo Rising” is simply offered up as the creator of the article. In either case, the writing is original to Buffalo Rising.

The Electric District could see a significant amount of development in coming years as Douglas Development proceeds with a multi-phase plan to reuse the Simon Electric properties, expand the Mohawk Ramp, and build on a parking lot it purchased at Washington and Mohawk streets.  Iskalo Development is proposing further investment in the neighborhood with a proposed addition to 68 E. Huron Street next to the former Old Editions Book Store. The two buildings would be combined to create commercial and residential space. The proposed project consists of an addition of two new floors on the westernmost building increasing its height…

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After the overwhelming feedback from our first episode of the “Building Buffalo Podcast: Around the world of Buffalo, with Frits Abell,” Newell Nussbaumer and Frits decided to continue their exploration of Buffalo’s transformation and growth. Introducing, the “Buffalo…..who knew?” podcast series which aims to highlight the (often under appreciated, sometimes unearthed) assets of Buffalo–particularly as it relates to the built and natural environment. It reveals up-and-coming projects, checks in on those that are already underway, and discusses some of the barriers that may impede their forward movement. Our guest on this inaugural episode is Paris Roselli, a Buffalo native who…

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Another upper Niagara Street building is targeted for renovations. 4TH Property Bros. is planning to renovate eight apartments and commercial space in a four-story building located at 1287 Niagara. The Tonawanda-based owner is aiming to build upon other reuse and development projects that have popped up on Niagara Street north of the Peace Bridge in recent years. 4TH Property Bros. purchased the property from Ellicott Development in 2021.  The four-story building contains 12,768 sq.ft. including eight apartments and 1,000 sq.ft. of commercial space. ELEV8 Architecture is working on the renovation plans which will include rehab of the eight existing residential…

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The finish line, a long time coming, is in sight for the Trico redevelopment project. The Krog Corp. is converting the complex into residential and commercial space and will bring a hefty dose of life to the edges of the Theater District and Medical Campus. The building will include 243 studio to three-bedroom apartments with ten percent reserved for families earning 80 percent or less of area median income. When completed, it will be one of the largest residential buildings downtown. There will be 60,000 sq.ft. of commercial space and parking for 230 cars. A model and leasing office is…

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For the second time in two years, 505 Pearl Street has a new owner. TNC 505 Pearl LLC, registered to a Rockville Centre UPS Store address, purchased the vacant building from 505 Pearl Street WNY LLC yesterday for $1.4 million. The seller, an LLC created by Shea’s Performing Arts Center, purchased the property in 2021 for $1.3 million. Shea’s did not publicly disclose it had purchased the property and did not pursue reuse of the property. 505 Pearl Street was constructed for Byers Companies for film distribution and storage. The building is also known as the Saturn Rings Building, named…

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BestSelf Behavioral Health’s new corporate headquarters at 899 Main Street is on track for completion next year.  Uniland Development is overseeing the $20 million project. BestSelf Behavioral Health recently announced that the facility will be named for the Scott Bieler Family Foundation. According to Scott Bieler, President and CEO of West Herr Automotive Group, “This building will continue to symbolize hope, a sanctuary for those seeking support, and a place where healing and growth are possible. I am honored to be part of BestSelf’s incredible journey and look forward to witnessing our partnership’s impact on countless lives.” Uniland purchased 899 Main…

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The two-building Heritage Point project at Main and Scott streets is taking shape. The development by Sinatra and Company Real Estate will include restaurant, retail and office space plus 61 apartments. It is being constructed on the South Aud Blocks located between the Explore & More Children’s Museum and Main Street. The project includes two buildings with 103,000 sq.ft. of space separated by an open space area following a portion of the route of the former Prime Slip. Each building will be six stories that includes a mansard roof level and basement level. The project was designed by Carmina Wood…

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A stunning redevelopment project is planned in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Niagara Parks is partnering with Pearle Hospitality to transform the Toronto Power Generating Station in Niagara Falls overlooking the Niagara River.  The proposal submitted by Pearle outlines a transformational private sector investment of over $200 million that will restore the National Historic Site while creating an unparalleled visitor experience befitting of its location overlooking the iconic Canadian Horseshoe Falls.   Proposed uses include several indoor and outdoor public viewing areas, a variety of culinary options, a craft brewery, wellness spa, event space, museum and art gallery, a theatre and educational…

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As the holiday season progresses, one of the best loved movies, “It’s a Wonderful Life” will receive multiple TV airings and local screenings. Most everyone familiar with the movie knows, Gloria Grahame from her first big role as Violet Bick, the town hottie and James Stewart’s suppressed lust interest.    Grahame went on to star in a number of classic Hollywood Noir films. To celebrate the gifted Oscar winner’s centennial of her birth year (1923, died 1981) the Screening Room Cinema and Arts Café will screen a consecutive double feature Wednesdays on 11/29 and 12/6 presenting four stylish, suspenseful films featuring co-stars Robert…

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Eight years after setting a goal to raise $10,000 for local nonprofits that serve Veterans and Military families, the non profit Buffalo ‘Blues4Vets’ music charity just surpassed $250,000 on November 11. “The three secrets to how we’ve done this, if there are secrets, is gathering diverse partnerships who share ownership of the mission, showing where the money goes, while celebrating the 256 local musicians who have helped,” stated Bob James, Event Coordinator. 31 distinct non profits have shared the funds, including WNY Gold Star Mothers, Combat Veterans Motorcycle Assn., Dog Tags New York, and West Falls Center Art Center that provides…

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