Niagara Falls, NY – The state will invest $12 million to buy and renovate a vacant downtown Niagara Falls building.
Governor Pataki appeared in the Cataract city Monday afternoon to announce the economic boost for the Falls Street Faire building.
Pataki said the vacant building will be transformed into a conference and meeting venue.
Niagara Falls Mayor Irene Elia said the building, constructed in 1990 never opened as an indoor retail and amusement mall.
"This particular property has lied fallow for far too long," said Elia.
Governor Pataki said the state's investment "demonstrates the positive ripple effect" that casino gaming will have on downtown revitalization efforts in the Falls.
He said the project will boost downtown redevelopment efforts and address the immediate need for a conference venue, as well as improve the city's convention business.