BUFFALO | Development Thread

[BUFFALOVE!!]

^^ I´m not going to lie, i´m shocked its come this far. I thought this was a big joke when i first learned of this project. if it works out that would be great

[Jas]

Issa's English co. up for saleBusiness First of Buffalo - by James Fink Business First

The Manchester, England construction arm of the BSC Group has been put up for sale by its creditors.

Crain's Manchester Business has reported that Barclays Bank has retained KPMG to find potential buyers for BS Construction Ltd., a firm developer Bashar Issa created to specifically handle the Issa Quay apartment complex in Manchester. The for sale sign is only on BS Construction and not any of Issa's other holdings including his planned re-development of the Statler Towers in downtown Buffalo.

David Costley-Wood and Richard Fleming from KPMG's Manchester office were named joint administrators.

Issa could not be reached for comment.

Barclays Bank declined to comment, citing customer confidentiality clauses.

"For the avoidance of doubt, the administration relates to BS Constructed limited and no other companies within the BSC Group," KPMG said in a release published by Crain's.

Issa bought the Statler Towers three years ago and pledged to spend more than $100 million renovating the historic downtown landmark. While some work was completed, all of the renovations stopped in mid-April over a labor dispute with local construction unions. Issa was fighting efforts by workers to join ranks with unions. The dispute is still be negotiated by the National Labor Relations Board.

Meanwhile, the development community is receiving mixed messages from Issa and the project.

Issa continues to negotiate with Wyndom Hotels to bring in a combination of 350 rooms and apartments into the building's top nine floors. At the same time, Issa said he waiting word on nearly $20 million worth of historic tax credits that, if he obtains them, will allow the renovation work to proceed.

Stalled and considered dead by many are plans by Issa to construct a 40-story tower on S. Elmwood Avenue, one block away from the Statler.

[Halovet]

[B]Issa's English co. up for saleBusiness First of Buffalo

Stalled and considered dead by many are plans by Issa to construct a 40-story tower on S. Elmwood Avenue, one block away from the Statler.

Sounds like Adelphia Tower Pt. 2

[chevy064]

Anyone else just fed up with this shit?

Why the hell can nothing ever just pan out in Buffalo?

ridiculous.:(

[believeinbflo]

if the Statler gets done then Buffalo only benefited from the Issa experience. I ask nothing more of him.

[westcoastperspective]

Anyone else just fed up with this shit?

Why the hell can nothing ever just pan out in Buffalo?

ridiculous.:(

Yes. All we can hope is that his troubles in England don't impede him from getting on track with the Statler. If Wyndham signs and he gets the tax credits, it should all work out. Right? :shrug:

Meanwhile a block away, the Two Hundred Delaware project is humming along. This is the rendering sent out announcing Damon & Morey signed. If this is the latest plan, the 'wing' from the top of the building has been ditched:

http://img360.imageshack.us/img360/1611/200delrenderpb2.jpg

http://buffalorising.com/story/damon_morey_puts_pen_to_paper#sca

[BUFFALOVE!!]

^^I like this better. And its a shame about the Statler. I gave up hope on the tower. Maby he should sell the lot and put that money into the Statler. I´m sure the value has increased with 200 Delaware going on. Then again the value of the Statler probably has too. I can see him selling both for about $40 million and skipping town. Poor Buffalo never gets a break.

[westcoastperspective]

Good news for Niagara-

Silicon firm plans 500-employee plant in Niagara Falls
By Sharon Linstedt - News Business Reporter
Updated: 05/20/08 12:45 PM

An idle industrial plant in Niagara Falls will reopen early next year, creating 500 new jobs tied to production of silicon for the solar power industry.

The Globe Metallurgical plant, dormant since 2003, will come back to life under the ownership of Globe Specialty Metals, one of the world's largest producers of metallurgical and chemical-grade silicon metal and silicon-based specialty alloys.

Globe will invest $60 million in the Highland Avenue facility, including a 100,000-square-foot expansion. The facility is expected to be in full-production mode by 2011, turning out 4,000 tons of solar-grade silicon per year.

The reopening is aided in large part by a 40-megawatt allocation of low-cost power from the New York Power Authority approved today. Globe also will get a boost from about $25 million in state Empire Development Zone benefits tied to job creation.

"This project signifies how powerfully competitive New York State can be in attracting businesses when we pool our resources, in this case the availability of hydropower through NYPA and an Empire Zone incentive through Empire State Development," Gov. David A. Paterson said in a statement.

Alan Kestenbaum, chairman and chief executive of Globe, said the plant will create hundreds of "green collar" jobs, while enabling the generation of significant amounts of solar power.

"This project . . . will be a cornerstone for New York State to realize the goal of [becoming] a major center for production and research for renewable energy and in particular solar energy products," Kestenbaum said.



http://www.buffalonews.com/258/story/351212.html

[Nickelplate]

Yes. All we can hope is that his troubles in England don't impede him from getting on track with the Statler. If Wyndham signs and he gets the tax credits, it should all work out. Right? :shrug:

Meanwhile a block away, the Two Hundred Delaware project is humming along. This is the rendering sent out announcing Damon & Morey signed. If this is the latest plan, the 'wing' from the top of the building has been ditched:

http://img360.imageshack.us/img360/1611/200delrenderpb2.jpg

http://buffalorising.com/story/damon_morey_puts_pen_to_paper#sca

I was shipped off to the Air Force from this buildings 10th floor in 1997. Got lots of memories but am happy about the new use for this asbestos filled beast. Go Buffalo!! Always in my heart!

[westcoastperspective]

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/5239/dsc08958ac7.jpg

[impressingagent]

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/5239/dsc08958ac7.jpg

some kind of caging device for another one of Spitzers projects?

[BUFFALOVE!!]

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/5239/dsc08958ac7.jpg

I love it!! i cant wait to come home in 3 days and see that baby!!!

[Halovet]

looks impressive alright. You'd think they we're erecting a 49 story building (I wish) but after all that, you'll probably get some two story structure with a Tim Horton's and FootLocker!:brickwall: :lmao:

[westcoastperspective]

Give it up for union steel workers- they've made good progress this weekend:

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/8916/crane4qp5.png

[Downtown Bolivar]

^^^Federal project or not, it's going to be a cool landmark.

Has anyone been down to the harbor yet? What did you think?

[eMKay]

I was shipped off to the Air Force from this buildings 10th floor in 1997. Got lots of memories but am happy about the new use for this asbestos filled beast. Go Buffalo!! Always in my heart!

Me too...But it was 1993. I was out sailing today and from the water it's just an empty shell, from the angle I was at you could see straight through it. You can also see the cranes from the new building, and lots of progress on the outside of the condo building. y boat is at the Small Boat Harbor next to the freezer queen site, and heavy equipment is starting to show up there, although it could be for all the construction on Furhman so don't read too much into that.

[westcoastperspective]

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/4683/2523097210fcc9264f17cb6.jpg

:eek:
I got goosebumps seeing this picture. Imagine, Baltimore-like crowds on the Buffalo River! Now we need more for folks to do to keep them around. Hurry Bass Pro and Benderson!!!!

[westcoastperspective]

Freezer Queen Make-Over

http://img222.imageshack.us/img222/6388/perspectiveseaor9.jpg

http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/5061/dsc0329nv0.jpg

http://www.buffalorising.com/story/big_plans_for_the_outer_harbor

[BUFFALOVE!!]

^^ i dont approve. the two extra floors will put this building out of place for that neighborhood. plus they are ruining the historic façade. and all the windows will reflect extra sun light into the water thus increasing its temperature killing fish... (small joke :) )

great improvement

[Halovet]

^^ i dont approve. the two extra floors will put this building out of place for that neighborhood. plus they are ruining the historic façade. and all the windows will reflect extra sun light into the water thus increasing its temperature killing fish... (small joke :) )

great improvement

You had me fooled there for a min B~Love.:jester:

[chevy064]

It's awesome! It looks like a cruise ship.

very cool

[BUFFALOVE!!]

can someone please tell me WTF is going on with 50 court st. i hate that ugly building but i want it there because its critical for density in downtown. density is key for a city. and right now 50 court is a huge hole. someone tell mr. p. to giddey up. wasnt it supposed to start last spring

[sullymon54]

200 Delaware and Courthouse update

200 Delaware

http://inlinethumb49.webshots.com/41776/2177908410066366662S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2177908410066366662UlNIgR)

http://inlinethumb15.webshots.com/34574/2849592050066366662S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2849592050066366662qcJWuQ)

http://inlinethumb01.webshots.com/24064/2904989690066366662S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2904989690066366662FsqDeC)

http://inlinethumb56.webshots.com/41143/2186174980066366662S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2186174980066366662IdaIdi)

http://inlinethumb13.webshots.com/31436/2468733260066366662S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2468733260066366662OAeVEY)

Courthouse

http://inlinethumb56.webshots.com/41335/2514737480066366662S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2514737480066366662OYJwDf)

http://inlinethumb53.webshots.com/34484/2776700350066366662S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2776700350066366662wNzxJx)

http://inlinethumb38.webshots.com/42661/2811466540066366662S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2811466540066366662JzQjcQ)

http://inlinethumb02.webshots.com/40129/2774215550066366662S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2774215550066366662bpRlGE)

http://inlinethumb35.webshots.com/43106/2306868030066366662S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2306868030066366662SWVdUl)

http://inlinethumb13.webshots.com/39820/2646979250066366662S600x600Q85.jpg (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2646979250066366662scTePO)

[westcoastperspective]

can someone please tell me WTF is going on with 50 court st. i hate that ugly building but i want it there because its critical for density in downtown. density is key for a city. and right now 50 court is a huge hole. someone tell mr. p. to giddey up. wasnt it supposed to start last spring


Stay tuned. The Paladino/Hotung fight continues. And Paladino is tweaking his plans.

Scratching my head trying to picture how the 200 Delaware facade is going to look like when completed. So far....hmmm.

[BUFFALOVE!!]

^^how is it being tweaked??

[westcoastperspective]

^^how is it being tweaked??

Haven't heard besides there will be "changes." Bigger? Smaller? Is the hotel back? New design? :shrug:

[Halovet]

Scratching my head trying to picture how the 200 Delaware facade is going to look like when completed. So far....hmmm.
It already looks better thaen it ever did!:shrug:

[kznyc2k]

Many thanks for the photos, sullymon. But boy that glass on 200 Delaware looks rather dark and dull, almost 1970s like. Hopefully it'll show us some nice reflective properties the higher it goes.

[Downtown Bolivar]

Taken from the Erie Basin Marina tower
General Skyline Pic (The new projects will have a big impact from this angle)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3046/2564518015_0393b8da22.jpg?v=0

Erie Basin Condo Midrise:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3259/2565347412_b8b4973a58.jpg?v=0

The Dulski Project:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3110/2565357836_5b7edf2a4e.jpg?v=0

Healthnow (Still a crane at the parking garage):
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3030/2565360618_c9047b5923.jpg?v=0

Bonus--The fastest sailboat on the Great Lakes:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3167/2564553315_b4553e7828.jpg?v=0

[BuffaloBill]

^^ i dont approve. the two extra floors will put this building out of place for that neighborhood. plus they are ruining the historic façade. and all the windows will reflect extra sun light into the water thus increasing its temperature killing fish... (small joke :) )

great improvement



the endangered jubjub bird might slam into that roof pod. can't have that.

:(

[mrussell83]

..........“We’ve determined we need to go with a smaller building. We’ll represent a seven-story, 225,000-square-foot tower,” the developer said.

The downsized tower will cost approximately $30 million to construct.

He blames Hotung’s lawsuit for allowing two major downtown office projects to get ahead of 50 Court St., resulting in a smaller pool of available tenants. He cited Uniland Development’s new office building at 285 Delaware Ave., as well as Uniland-Acquest Development partnership to overhaul the former Dulski federal office building to mixed-use, with more than 100,000-square-feet of Class A office space.

Buffalo law firm Damon & Morey, a tenant Paladino had hoped to sign to 50 Court St., recently confirmed it will lease 50,000-square-feet at the overhauled Dulski site at Delaware Avenue and West Huron Street.

Paladino said he might sue Hotung for the loss of potential tenants and carrying costs tied to the litigation-caused delay.

“He deserves to be sued until hell freezes over. He’s cost me millions [of dollars],” Paladino said.

Paladino’s interest in the Court Street site dates back to 1989. Over the years, he’s proposed several different projects for the address, including a 15- story office/hotel tower.

from blo-news

[BUFFALOVE!!]

..........“We’ve determined we need to go with a smaller building. We’ll represent a seven-story, 225,000-square-foot tower,” the developer said.

The downsized tower will cost approximately $30 million to construct.

He blames Hotung’s lawsuit for allowing two major downtown office projects to get ahead of 50 Court St., resulting in a smaller pool of available tenants. He cited Uniland Development’s new office building at 285 Delaware Ave., as well as Uniland-Acquest Development partnership to overhaul the former Dulski federal office building to mixed-use, with more than 100,000-square-feet of Class A office space.

Buffalo law firm Damon & Morey, a tenant Paladino had hoped to sign to 50 Court St., recently confirmed it will lease 50,000-square-feet at the overhauled Dulski site at Delaware Avenue and West Huron Street.

Paladino said he might sue Hotung for the loss of potential tenants and carrying costs tied to the litigation-caused delay.

“He deserves to be sued until hell freezes over. He’s cost me millions [of dollars],” Paladino said.

Paladino’s interest in the Court Street site dates back to 1989. Over the years, he’s proposed several different projects for the address, including a 15- story office/hotel tower.

from blo-news

he's a giant tool too. i'll repost what i said on b-lo rising:

"Both proposals are jokes. There is no need for a parking ramp the main place guy just doesnt want an office tower to compete with his buildings. and paladino's building is a thought less blob of crap. no first floor retail and just a generic box. why cant he add a few floors of high end apartments and then a floor or two of condos. we've seen that there is demand for both. especially in the middle of the down town business district. grrr "

no matter what its just going to sit empty for another 10 years. i dont have a problem with a 7 story building as long as it doesnt look like the origional proposed one with just office space and no first floor retail. apartments should go ther with office and retail!!!!

[BUFFALOVE!!]

Does anyone remember when it felt like this was going to start tomorrow? :(
http://www.buffalo-city-tower.com/

Or when you could see and hear construction on this baby on Delaware ave on any given day :(

http://www.thestatler.com/

sigh... i thing the statler is still floating but it needs a lifevest instantly (tax credits + hotel signing)! I've pretty much given up hope on the tower :(

i was his biggest supporter :(
http://www.basharalissa.com/

[impressingagent]

the loading bar for the buffalo city tower just sucks the life out of you.


Hopefully this will bring in more interest for projects

UB receives $10 million gift from Jacobs family to staff heart-vascular institute (http://www.buffalonews.com/home/story/367630.html)

[impressingagent]

colbert had a guest on his show and i think it goes well with our concept of green energy. It would be crazy to see towers of farms for density. vertical farms (http://www.verticalfarm.com/designs.aspx) seems like a very realistic reuse project for our grain silo's. Lol though i wouldn't mind just filling up our urban core with buildings that grow plants. :notacrook:


also.. has anyone herd news on the wind turbine company that wanted to manufacture here? The last i herd it sounded like we missed a real opportunity. Over the weekend i spent a few hours traveling back in time (trying to find an old post). Its really incredible how positive these pages have become for buffalo, hopefully a real strong testament of the future.

someone should convince labbatt to build a brewery here. though if i had my choice it would be guinness or new castle.

[westcoastperspective]

Warehouse Lofts leased out
Business First of Buffalo - by James Fink Business First

Jake Schneider was wrong. He assumed that when he opened the Warehouse Lofts on Ellicott Street in Buffalo early this spring, it would take until late August or September before the 30 apartments were leased.

Yet, just weeks after Memorial Day, Schneider leased the last of them in the century-old, former printing press building. The 8,300 square feet of commercial space also was leased, with college-student-polling company Student Voice taking the entire spot.

Warehouse Lofts features a mix of one- and two-bedroom units, with monthly rental rates ranging from $900 to just under $2,000.

The tenant mix is diverse, including professional athletes, newlyweds, attorneys, retirees and working couples.

http://buffalo.bizjournals.com/buffalo/stories/2008/06/09/daily43.html?t=printable

[Halovet]

Warehouse Lofts leased out
Business First of Buffalo - by James Fink Business First

Jake Schneider was wrong. He assumed that when he opened the Warehouse Lofts on Ellicott Street in Buffalo early this spring, it would take until late August or September before the 30 apartments were leased.

Yet, just weeks after Memorial Day, Schneider leased the last of them in the century-old, former printing press building. The 8,300 square feet of commercial space also was leased, with college-student-polling company Student Voice taking the entire spot.

Warehouse Lofts features a mix of one- and two-bedroom units, with monthly rental rates ranging from $900 to just under $2,000.

The tenant mix is diverse, including professional athletes, newlyweds, attorneys, retirees and working couples.

http://buffalo.bizjournals.com/buffalo/stories/2008/06/09/daily43.html?t=printableThis happens because folks have such low expectations for B-Lo, and it pisses me off. Hell, at least Issa tried. Have faith and build the dam thing whatever it is. If you don't believe in the city, frickin leave. Geez, I can't take it anymore!:hell:

Sorry! Got to be the White Zif Im downing right now!:drunk:

[Downtown Bolivar]

Facade Work:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3110/2585640701_389f37f830_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3255/2585638413_98f86cd8bc_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3032/2585636473_48cd7f47c3_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3125/2585634903_681d272845_b.jpg

I think it looks better than the renderings. I guess we'll know for sure when the windows go in. Sorry for the quality of the photos--practically taken right into the sun.

[westcoastperspective]

Uniland is going to announce the new name of Two Hundred Delaware on Monday.

[kznyc2k]

Redevelopment at Kensington Heights
Business First of Buffalo - by Annemarie Franczyk
Friday, June 20, 2008

The empty, dilapidated Kensington Heights housing project on Buffalo's East Side is closer to coming down to make way for a retirement community.

Site developers HLM Holding and Centerstone Development expect to award a contract for the demolition in the next few weeks. Work could begin in mid-August, said John Giardino, Centerstone CEO.

New York state early last year committed the $5 million needed to take down the six high-rise towers as the first phase of a project leading to an $80 million senior-living community called Heritage Heights.

Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples, whose district includes the site, championed the funding through the state Dormitory Authority.

"It looks like a matter of days before these towers are finally demolished and we see cranes and construction equipment on this site," she said.

Gone would be the blighted public housing that abuts Erie County Medical Center, three schools and a park and is visible from Route 33, the Kensington Expressway.

Unoccupied for two decades, the seven-story buildings have been a haven for criminal activity and graffiti.

Giardino and partner Hormoz Mansouri were selected four years ago as preferred developers of the 12-acre site owned by the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority. Two years later, they announced plans that would bring to the city a senior development so far available only in the suburbs.

The project calls for 180 independent-living apartments for seniors who don't require nursing care, 158 assisted-living units offering some daily help and a 320-bed nursing home.

http://www.bizjournals.com/albany/othercities/buffalo/stories/2008/06/16/daily41.html?b=1213588800^1654163

[Halovet]

Redevelopment at Kensington Heights

"Unoccupied for two decades, the seven-story buildings have been a haven for criminal activity and graffiti."








I really hate to break the news, but this eye witness says, they were a haven for criminal activity in 1967! :notacrook:

[westcoastperspective]

http://www.buffalonews.com/258/story/376685.html

200 Delaware = Avant

:rolleyes:

[Halovet]

So will it be "THE AVANT" , 200 AVANT, or just AVANT as in Avant Williams, a kid that lived in The Kensington High rises in 1967?:lmao:

[Downtown Bolivar]

^^^Nice one--hiliarious!

[mrussell83]

Don't forget the Downtown Housing Tour is tomarrow 1p-5p, Chris (WCP[for a while]) and I will be at the Market Arcade.

[BUFFALOVE!!]

Construction tour of 'Avant' with real "million dollar" views
New glass facad
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3015/2615704125_bc065e03d8.jpg

Installation of a glass panel
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3137/2615702317_c540bb5a70.jpg

This is going to be someones living room view
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3171/2615703219_e4b6b5d136.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3028/2616532526_1fb56815ba.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3097/2616533444_88e778a81e.jpg

Plus. Shots from the roof of the marine drive towers
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3022/2616534356_9b91b2b546.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3131/2616535170_cc57f91224.jpg

[westcoastperspective]

Volunteers for the downtown housing tour tomorrow got a VIP tour of Genny Gateway and Avant. Plus a bonus rooftop pass to the Marine Drive Apts. rooftop Wiggs and Buffalove!! stepped up to the plate.

[Halovet]

Volunteers for the downtown housing tour tomorrow got a VIP tour of Genny Gateway and Avant. Plus a bonus rooftop pass to the Marine Drive Apts. rooftop Wiggs and Buffalove!! stepped up to the plate.Nice Pics. Wonder how much a view like that would be. Hey I had it free when I was 9 yrs old from The 8th floor at 312 Perry St. Watched The M&T and Erie Towers both get built. WOW!:tup:

[Wigs]

just wanted to say thanks again to Chris aka westcoastperspective for getting us a "hard hat" tour of the Dulski and rooftop/unit tour of Marine Drive apartments.
it was also nice getting to meet and hangout with BUFFALOVE as well

and Buffalo Homecoming Week "Downtown Housing tour" was a success today. at least from my vantage point manning the door at the Buehl Block building.

[westcoastperspective]

just wanted to say thanks again to Chris aka westcoastperspective for getting us a "hard hat" tour of the Dulski and rooftop/unit tour of Marine Drive apartments.
it was also nice getting to meet and hangout with BUFFALOVE as well

and Buffalo Homecoming Week "Downtown Housing tour" was a success today. at least from my vantage point manning the door at the Buehl Block building.

I'll do a BRO post with some pics of the tour and numbers- incredible turn-out. Everyone I talked to- resident hosts, the public, and developers were pleased. The whole event is meant to expose the public to the good things happening downtown, let them experience downtown living first-hand, talk to current residents, and plant the seed that yes, downtown and city living is pretty neat.

Thanks Wigs and Buffalove!! for sacrificing almost two days to this and MRussell for help and input!

http://img119.imageshack.us/img119/9778/dsc0500vu3.jpg>

http://img119.imageshack.us/img119/291/dsc0496gw8.jpg>

http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/802/dsc0495qc0.jpg>

http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/3496/dsc0494op8.jpg

[BUFFALOVE!!]

^^ I had a great time! thanks for the opportunity

[Wigs]

Marine Drive roof
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/8823/Picture003Large.jpg
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/8822/Picture002Large.jpg
http://img47.imageshack.us/img47/1342/picture014largesd1.jpg
http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/6442/picture005largegk6.jpg
http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/8159/picture006largefr8.jpg

from Avant (nee 200 Delaware/former Dulski Federal building)

http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/2240/Picture018Large.jpg
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/2652/Picture022Large.jpg
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/6851/Picture023Large.jpg
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/5749/Picture024Large.jpg
http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/5340/picture025largemc7.jpg
http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/8677/picture026largepc5.jpg
http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/3227/picture027largesn9.jpg
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/1333/Picture028Large.jpg
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/664/Picture030Large.jpg
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/815/Picture031Large.jpg
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/2590/Picture032Large.jpg
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/6697/Picture034Large.jpg
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/5339/Picture036Large.jpg
http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/6078/Picture037Large.jpg

BONUS: pano!
http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/2750/panoramalw2.jpg

(sorry that the image is all watermarked. if anyone knows free photostitching software that doesn't watermark images please let me know)

[Wigs]

Also, I'd just thought I'd mention at the top floor (15th floor) of "Avant" will have 21 foot ceilings, so 21 feet of floor-to-ceiling glass! unbelievable! and some units will have both a downtown AND waterfront view.

[westcoastperspective]

Nice pano!!!! Too bad it was so crappy that day. We'll try to get up there in December. :cheers:

From the Pasquale today:

http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/9213/dsc0576hi6.jpg

http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/3775/dsc0600li2.jpg

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/1572/dsc0602tg5.jpg

http://img526.imageshack.us/img526/213/dsc0606hc7.jpg

http://img154.imageshack.us/img154/2060/dsc0610ch1.jpg

http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/4374/dsc0611nn3.jpg

[sullymon54]

Developer plans to convert crumbling livery stable into residences
By Matt Gryta - News Staff Reporter
Updated: 07/01/08 12:11 PM

One of the city's major property developers has agreed to buy the crumbling Jersey Street livery for $1 with plans to renovate the three-story brick landmark as residential property, the city announced today.

Sam Savarino and his Savarino Cos. will purchase the White Bros. Livery & Boarding Stable from longtime owner Robert Freudenheim, said Corporation Counsel Alisa A. Lukasiewicz.

The city has been doing some emergency demolition work to stabilize the 138-year-old architectural masterpiece while suing Freudenheim for the costs and for the demolition of another of his properties.

Freudenheim attorney Jennifer Persico told a judge today she expects the property transfer to be completed within 48 hours.

State Supreme Court Justice Christopher J. Burns, whose three-week effort led to what all sides in the dispute believe is the best of solutions, vowed to continue monitoring the situation after being notified of the development. He put off further court proceedings until Sept. 2.

During a mid-morning court session, Lukasiewicz said the city -- which had opted to spend $397,000 to save the crumbling horse barn -- will file a lien on the property in that amount.

With the city eventually seeking payment of that new lien for the continuing costs of work on the property, Lukasiewicz said the court case the city launched last week against Freudenheim to recover demolition costs already incurred "will continue."

The city originally ordered a total demolition of the livery because of the danger the dilapidated structure posed to nearby homeowners. On the advice of the city, five families temporarily moved out of their homes because of safety concerns about the crumbling structure.

Burns, the prime architect in the effort to save the historic livery from total demolition, lauded all sides from the bench, saying the Savarino purchase "makes sense" for the neighborhood and the safety of its residents.

[Halovet]

HomeDeveloper plans to convert crumbling livery stable into residences

By Matt Gryta - News Staff Reporter
Updated: 07/01/08 12:11 PM


http://media.buffalonews.com/smedia/2008/06/20/11/609-livery_local_livery__scull.standalone.prod_affiliate.50.jpg


A gaping hole was left in the former White Bros. Livery & Boarding Stable at 428 Jersey St. after part of its brick wall collapsed June 11.

City designates $397,000 to restore crumbling Jersey Street stable
Dangerous old stable drives five families from their West Side homes
City plans court action against stable owner
Judge allows ‘therapeutic demolition’ of livery
Historic livery stable faces demolition after section of brick wall collapses

One of the city's major property developers has agreed to buy the crumbling Jersey Street livery for $1 with plans to renovate the three-story brick landmark as residential property, the city announced today.

Sam Savarino and his Savarino Cos. will purchase the White Bros. Livery & Boarding Stable from longtime owner Robert Freudenheim, said Corporation Counsel Alisa A. Lukasiewicz.

The city has been doing some emergency demolition work to stabilize the 138-year-old architectural masterpiece while suing Freudenheim for the costs and for the demolition of another of his properties.

Freudenheim attorney Jennifer Persico told a judge today she expects the property transfer to be completed within 48 hours.

State Supreme Court Justice Christopher J. Burns, whose three-week effort led to what all sides in the dispute believe is the best of solutions, vowed to continue monitoring the situation after being notified of the development. He put off further court proceedings until Sept. 2.

During a mid-morning court session, Lukasiewicz said the city -- which had opted to spend $397,000 to save the crumbling horse barn -- will file a lien on the property in that amount.

With the city eventually seeking payment of that new lien for the continuing costs of work on the property, Lukasiewicz said the court case the city launched last week against Freudenheim to recover demolition costs already incurred "will continue."

The city originally ordered a total demolition of the livery because of the danger the dilapidated structure posed to nearby homeowners. On the advice of the city, five families temporarily moved out of their homes because of safety concerns about the crumbling structure.

Burns, the prime architect in the effort to save the historic livery from total demolition, lauded all sides from the bench, saying the Savarino purchase "makes sense" for the neighborhood and the safety of its residents.

mgryta@buffnews.com

[westcoastperspective]

Dreary make-over for Elmwood/Auburn Wilson Farms:

http://img387.imageshack.us/img387/636/622bn20080702b008severavy8.jpg

http://www.buffalonews.com/businesstoday/localbusiness/story/383205.html

[BUFFALOVE!!]

^^^BARF! just nock it down please!! This is probably my favorite neighborhood in the city and this wilson farms and parking lot next door ruin it. wouldnt it be nice to have a 3-5 story building there up to the sidewalk with first floor retail and living space above

[westcoastperspective]

Stay tuned for some news on the former KFC at Elmwood/Bryant. Think tear-down and rebuild.

[mrussell83]

A little teaser of my plane ride around Buffalo from the weekend... More to come when I get back.

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1312.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1340.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1349.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1353.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1354.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1415.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1435.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1617.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1652.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1658.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1693.jpg

[homestar]

Stay tuned for some news on the former KFC at Elmwood/Bryant. Think tear-down and rebuild.
I'm shivering with anticip...

[homestar]

...pation!



:hyper:

[mrussell83]

A little teaser of my plane ride around Buffalo from the weekend... More to come when I get back.

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1312.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1340.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1349.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1353.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1354.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1415.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1435.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1617.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1652.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1658.jpg

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1693.jpg

[BUFFALOVE!!]

^^ thats pretty cool. howd you get to do that.

btw central terminal is amazing

[steel]

The profession of architecture has reached a very sad state with this

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1354.jpg

[Jas]

Judge rules against Buffalo casino
Business First of Buffalo - by James Fink Business First

A federal judge ruled Tuesday afternoon that the Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino is operating a downtown Buffalo gambling site in violation of federal law.

U.S. District Court Justice William Skretny, in a highly anticipated ruling, said approval by the National Indian Gaming Commission that was granted on July 2, 2007 was "arbitary, capricious, and not in accordance with the law."

The decision, which does validate the Senecas ownership of the property, may cast an ominous shadow over plans by the Seneca Gaming Corp. to build its permanent $333 million gaming center in downtown Buffalo.

The 127-page ruling was part of a lawsuit filed by the Citizens for a Better Buffalo filed against federal officials concerning Seneca Gaming Corp.'s operation of Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino along Michigan Avenue. The anti-gaming group claims the nine-acre parcel acquired by the Senecas, an arm of the Seneca Nation of Indians, is not gaming eligible.

Skretny's ruling appears to support that claim.

An appeal of the decision is expected and it remains unclear if the construction will continue. A temporary casino at the location opened a year ago this month.

Seneca Gaming officials canceled a news conference and said a statement will be issued later Tuesday.
:tup:

[westcoastperspective]

I don't think this is the end of casino dreams for Cobblestone. It'll be interesting to see what the Senecas will do beyond appealing the decision.

With casinos popping up all over the place, really how much of an out-of-town draw would it be? Rochester perhaps. The Senecas in their federal filing estimated that a vast majority of Buffalo Creek patrons would be local residents. After seeing the toothless guy interviewed on WKBW (see their website for video), the casino is anything but world class and isn't exactly drawing high-rollers.

[chevy064]

westcoast - this is BAD news. There is no way to sugar coat it. Wanna bet Bass Pro pulls out of the deal now. You just wait and see. Bass Pro wants to be part of something big and a world class venue casino that would rival those of Vegas had to be a factor in them signing on.

All I can say is I hope the Senecas retain the land and dig a great big hole there and leave it like that.

I always stuck up for Buffalo - but no more. It is simply pathetic how that city operates and I will stop hoping for some dramatic turnaround of that city because it will never happen. I will just accept they will drive the Bills away as well.

[sullymon54]

chevy there is no evidence that an indian owned or any other type of casino would have or will suddenly awaken buffalo or large city that has built one. you obviously haven't seen how "prosperous" it has made niagara falls, detroit, or atlantic city all top notch cities in my book.

Also I agree with westcoast because the casino in Niagara falls makes sense to add to an attraction that is already established namely the falls themselves why build another one 20 miles away next to a low income neighborhood so that old folks and people in poverty can squander their limited incomes, great idea. Add to that the fact that there is no tax revenue, they'll build an enormous hotel and kill the rest in the city and the fact that the city residence have no say in how and what gets built there it really seems like a win win doesn't it.

[chevy064]

chevy there is no evidence that an indian owned or any other type of casino would have or will suddenly awaken buffalo or large city that has built one. you obviously haven't seen how "prosperous" it has made niagara falls, detroit, or atlantic city all top notch cities in my book.

Also I agree with westcoast because the casino in Niagara falls makes sense to add to an attraction that is already established namely the falls themselves why build another one 20 miles away next to a low income neighborhood so that old folks and people in poverty can squander their limited incomes, great idea. Add to that the fact that there is no tax revenue, they'll build an enormous hotel and kill the rest in the city and the fact that the city residence have no say in how and what gets built there it really seems like a win win doesn't it.

False - that hotel would not kill the city at all. They had a news piece on channel 4 news and other hotel owners like the Adams Mark and Hyatt were in full support of a casino hotel because it would HELP their business.

The Senecas propsoed hotel would be comped rooms for high rollers. It would not be for the average Joe's who just want to gamble and stay over night - they would stay at other downtown hotels.

Do you know how many cities would welcome a 1/3 of a BILLION dollar investment in their downtown??????? Yet somehow Buffalo manages to screw it up.

I have never in my life seen a more frustrating city. I am glad I do not live there if I am this frustrated and I am not even a resident. The Bills are my tie to the city and when they leave so does my allegiance, along with the hundreds/thousands I spend up there in a given year on games, food, hotel, shopping - and yes I would have made special trips to the casino as well - and would have hit the Chophouse or Pearl Street for dinner and Chippewa as well. Don't tell me the casino wouldn't have helped Buffalo - cuz that is bullcrap.

[westcoastperspective]

Studies showed that for each job created at the casino, 1.5 to 2 elsewhere would be eliminated. Unless that casino draws tens of thousands of out-of-towners, there is no plus here. What's the hotel occupancy in Niagara Falls, NY? Less than fifty percent. The locals going to the casino are not staying overnight except in the free Seneca rooms. You are emptying the pockets of the locals, getting a net loss of jobs, all for a $7 million local share. Don't be taken by the fancy casino rendering. Casinos are not economic development in a city such as Buffalo with little tourism. Even Golisamo was against the casino and his team plays next door!

[lastcall4am]

Back up for a second....Stop bashing the city of Buffalo for a federal court ruling. Mayor Brown and others weren't leading this oppposition. It was a small group of religous and moral elitists! Everyone take a deep breath now. The Seneca's will surely appeal this decision, because this ruling doesn't affect just the Buffalo Creek Casino, but can also be used as precedent for other casinos in the state (read: Niagara Falls). Do you honestly see all of these casinos closing????? What about Turning Stone and the propoesd casino in the Catskills....Are they going to get shut down by anti-gambling group consisting of a few dozen members. NO!!! Construction is still continuing today on the casino and the temporary blue shed is still open!

[detmi7mile]

Those are great aerial pics.

[homestar]

I always stuck up for Buffalo - but no more. It is simply pathetic how that city operates and I will stop hoping for some dramatic turnaround of that city because it will never happen.
One setback and you throw in the towel? Even with all the good news lately? Are you really such a fair-weather Buffalonian?

A true Buffalo supporter can see the forest thru the trees.

[Halovet]

westcoast - this is BAD news. There is no way to sugar coat it. Wanna bet Bass Pro pulls out of the deal now. You just wait and see. Bass Pro wants to be part of something big and a world class venue casino that would rival those of Vegas had to be a factor in them signing on.

All I can say is I hope the Senecas retain the land and dig a great big hole there and leave it like that.

I always stuck up for Buffalo - but no more. It is simply pathetic how that city operates and I will stop hoping for some dramatic turnaround of that city because it will never happen. I will just accept they will drive the Bills away as well.Once again, you are right chevy. This sucks big time I'm in Indiana, and a huge group of us here including my Boss, were waiting with anticipation for this casino to open. There are those (perhaps westcoast) that may disagree, but there are many of us, in our 50's and older, that like to check out the new casinos. I have been working evey day sense July 7, 1970, and if I want to play around with a few hundred of my hard erned bucks at the casino, provided I'm responsible, why should anyone be against it? FYI, I'm most interested in the fantastic food buffets more than gaming, but whatever. I can't tell you how disapointed I am for several reasons, some of which chevy has pointed out. I love Buffalo, always will, but God, it sucks as a city. Just seems "civic suicide" is the entire perspective. In the end, The Seneca's are going to win. Why do they do this? Unbelievable!:(

[Halovet]

The profession of architecture has reached a very sad state with this

http://mrussell.us/buffalo/DSC_1354.jpg

I don't know steel, perhaps if it didn't stand alone? I would have liked to see three more as fill in .:shrug:

[mrussell83]

Okay, enough bickering about the casino, lets wait and see what happens. Maybe this will make you guys happy:

http://mrussell.us/photo/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=23815&g2_serialNumber=4

http://mrussell.us/photo/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=23819&g2_serialNumber=4

http://mrussell.us/photo/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=23911&g2_serialNumber=4

http://mrussell.us/photo/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=24147&g2_serialNumber=4

http://mrussell.us/photo/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=24219&g2_serialNumber=4

http://mrussell.us/photo/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=24211&g2_serialNumber=4

http://mrussell.us/photo/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=24399&g2_serialNumber=4

http://mrussell.us/photo/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=24479&g2_serialNumber=3

http://mrussell.us/photo/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=24519&g2_serialNumber=4

I have about 300 more on my website, www.mrussell.us

[mrussell83]

If any of you want high res prints let me know, these were taken with a Nikon D80 (10MP) with a VR lens.
Also, I'll be doing this again soon if your interested

[photoLith]

Wow, I had no idea that thats what Buffalo looks like. Its so gritty and industrial looking, I love it!

[chevy064]

One setback and you throw in the towel? Even with all the good news lately? Are you really such a fair-weather Buffalonian?

A true Buffalo supporter can see the forest thru the trees.

ONE setback? If it was just ONE I could handle that - I am just sick of damn near every project falling through somehow. The city is bleeding population and yet nothing gets done in terms of substantial development that would attract people and new spin-off development.

No I am not throwing in the towel - but I am ready to strangle some people with it who keep positive development from happening.

[Halovet]

ONE setback? If it was just ONE I could handle that - I am just sick of damn near every project falling through somehow. The city is bleeding population and yet nothing gets done in terms of substantial development that would attract people and new spin-off development.

No I am not throwing in the towel - but I am ready to strangle some people with it who keep positive development from happening.What? people who keep development from happening? In Buffalo? No way! :lmao: :brickwall: :koko:

[westcoastperspective]

The casino ruling has just claimed its first development project. Paladino says his plans to put a hotel and high-end apartments in the Fairmont Creamery building in Cobblestone are now on hold. (if you can believe him) Post coming in Buffalo Rising any minute.

[FireMedic]

http://www.buffalonews.com/editorial...21/1030191.asp

Buffalo Niagara loss soars in last 5 years

Buffalo Niagara lost more people in the past five years than it did during the entire 1990s, according to Census Bureau estimates scheduled to be released today.
Only halfway into this decade, the population in Erie and Niagara counties already has dropped by 22,400 people.

So not only does the region's population continue to fall, but the decline appears to be speeding up.

Buffalo took the largest hit - down nearly 13,000 people during the past five years, dropping the city's population to an estimated 279,745.

[Downtown Bolivar]

I don't believe a word that Paladino says--he's a perfect example of what's wrong with development in the city. Any other place in the country and he'd either be run out town or out-manouvered by other developers. Case in point is the never to be built midrise held up by liberty group in court. Lame.

[westcoastperspective]

http://www.buffalonews.com/editorial...21/1030191.asp

Buffalo Niagara loss soars in last 5 years

Buffalo Niagara lost more people in the past five years than it did during the entire 1990s, according to Census Bureau estimates scheduled to be released today.
Only halfway into this decade, the population in Erie and Niagara counties already has dropped by 22,400 people.

So not only does the region's population continue to fall, but the decline appears to be speeding up.

Buffalo took the largest hit - down nearly 13,000 people during the past five years, dropping the city's population to an estimated 279,745.

Go away.

[BUFFALOVE!!]

A few things.

First: The for lease sign on the old ‘elmwood bagel’ (Elmwood & Anderson) is down and the exterior signage that was there has been removed. Anyone have any news?

Second: “Housing bust isn't stopping huge project proposed for Clarence”
http://www.buffalonews.com/home/story/390737.html?imw=Y

BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

[homestar]

The for lease sign on the old ‘elmwood bagel’ (Elmwood & Anderson) is down and the exterior signage that was there has been removed.
Good to hear something might happen there. I was surprised it's taken so long. It's a prime location on Elmwood.

No updated rumors on the KFC site?

[bloburgher]

http://www.buffalonews.com/editorial...21/1030191.asp

Buffalo Niagara loss soars in last 5 years

Buffalo Niagara lost more people in the past five years than it did during the entire 1990s, according to Census Bureau estimates scheduled to be released today.
Only halfway into this decade, the population in Erie and Niagara counties already has dropped by 22,400 people.

So not only does the region's population continue to fall, but the decline appears to be speeding up.

Buffalo took the largest hit - down nearly 13,000 people during the past five years, dropping the city's population to an estimated 279,745.

Well, add two to the Buffalo population count as my wife and I just moved back and are happier than ever! And, we make more money than you (bitter poster) ha!

[bloburgher]

No word on KFC but that area is looking great with Tabree just opened, and the wine Thief coming soon. Just went to Tabree bistro accross from KFC, great place.

[sullymon54]

i was around town today so I snapped some pics of a few projects

first up is pano's expansion
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3252/2668465930_27b716b694_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3188/2667645021_9c9a701444_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3294/2667645419_1b6f14cde9_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3152/2667645695_acacfaef9c_o.jpg

the new bank at the old elmwood taco location
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3172/2668464366_85143ef324_o.jpg

the family video on hertel
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3062/2668463742_09f7a1564b_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3102/2668464084_166a314a47_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2351/2668464690_c7dd083606_o.jpg

[Xeelee]

not bad

[westcoastperspective]

Watts Architecture & Engineering is leasing the third floor and part of the second at 95 Perry Street- they're moving from Eggertsville, taking 20,000 sq.ft. of space, and bringing 70 employees to Cobblestone. :cheers:

[BUFFALOVE!!]

Family video looks so bad, they didnt even try

[BUFFALOVE!!]

Just think what upper elmwood would look like if that hotel went in now that panos is there. it makes me so mad

[westcoastperspective]

Family video looks so bad, they didnt even try

No argument here. I did a couple posts on BRO about that project, the resident of Sterling would be good for a few quotes on the quality of the design. :D

[sullymon54]

that's a very good point buffalove, my roommate and I were actually talking about how far the new pano's sticks out compared to the neighbors. The hotel would have balanced it out and made for some nice density with the two story buildings across the street.

[Wigs]

Just think what upper elmwood would look like if that hotel went in now that panos is there. it makes me so mad

I agree. :hell:

[kznyc2k]

Family video looks so bad, they didnt even try

I honestly thought it was a building built around 1990 being torn down. The design language is the exact same as The Commons retail building on UB's north campus, put up in -- you guessed it -- 1990. That's super weak.

--

OK, I've got a question I've been meaning to ask for a long time: where did this picture come from? And more importantly, does anyone have a larger size of it? I've been wanting to make it my desktop background for years.

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/3371/buffalo14sunsetxn4.jpg

My hard drive says I downloaded it back in May 2005, which means I probably got it from this site.

[Halovet]

I honestly thought it was a building built around 1990 being torn down. The design language is the exact same as The Commons retail building on UB's north campus, put up in -- you guessed it -- 1990. That's super weak.

--

OK, I've got a question I've been meaning to ask for a long time: where did this picture come from? And more importantly, does anyone have a larger size of it? I've been wanting to make it my desktop background for years.

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/3371/buffalo14sunsetxn4.jpg

My hard drive says I downloaded it back in May 2005, which means I probably got it from this site.This shot (not necessarily the same picture) is one of the more popular Buffalo Post Cards. Different versions have been around sense the 80s. Outstanding!:worship:

[Halovet]

Hey kznyc2k, don't know if this helps or not, but this site seems pretty cool!
http://www.panoramio.com/map/#lt=43.111009&ln=-78.403931&z=8&k=1&a=1&tab=1