Byron Brown: "2012 Breakthrough Year for Waterfront"

“2012 will be another breakthrough year for Buffalo’s waterfront, making the full vision of Canalside a reality,” said Mayor Byron W. Brown, who noted that the announcement of the construction of the canals continues the positive momentum of Canalside created this summer by the great success of the expanded boardwalk, additional green space and increased entertainment. “Progress continues; we listened to residents and visitors, who made it clear that what they want is a connection to the water.”

Lobbying for Local

Buffalo First! continues its efforts to lobby for a local anchor tenant at Canalside. This past January 26, a number of local advocates and members of Buffalo First! rallied at the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) sending the message that locally owned businesses would make a better "anchor tenant" than subsidized big box retailers.

The group led by Buffalo First! Director Sarah Bishop also delivered their petition (signed by over 600 community members) that asks that at least 50 percent of all retail space contemplated and developed at Canal Side be devoted to locally owned businesses.

     Their message is clear, SUPPORT A STRONG, SELF-DETERMINED LOCAL ECONOMY -- SUPPORT BUFFALO BUSINESS!