BUFFALO, N.Y. — Buffalo's east side is now the focus of a major new funding program announced during a brief visit by Governor Andrew Cuomo.
The overall plan seeks to spur development along commercial corridors in that area of the city. That includes Michigan, Jefferson, Fillmore and Bailey avenues.
Here is how the money has been broken down:
- $7 million for Michigan Street Heritage Corridor
- $4 million for the Broadway Market
- $10 million capital investment
- $5 million grant with the University at Buffalo to train people in real estate development
- $5 million for historic buildings
- $10 million for commercial corridors
It includes everything from $10 million in street improvements to another $7 million for organizations in the historic "Michigan Street" area.
Also, more than $6 million is is planned for MLK Park improvements and more workforce training at the Northland Training Center.
Mayor Byron Brown described the plan this way: "Very targeted ... and it will go a long way in building the business ecosystem on the east side of Buffalo in a way that it will have a multiplier effect."
Brown added: "We've seen a lot of developers, a lot of businesses, make investments on the east side of Buffalo. That are making investments on the east side of Buffalo. That are buying property on the east side. The east side is going to be transformed."
Broadway Market Manager Kathleen Peterson says they had applied for the state grant and will use the funds to further develop the complex. She points out it is a key element of the East Side and can help spur development in the neighborhood.
Peterson says, "It'll just be a catalyst for all the development on the street. Small business development. There's already been some large business developments in the area at Broadway and Fillmore."
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