It was merely a formality. But Thursday's move by the Empire State Development Corporation to put its stamp on a loan agreement brought the future Curtiss Hotel closer to opening in downtown Buffalo.
Work continues on turning the Harlow Curtiss building at the corner of Franklin and West Huron Streets into an upscale hotel that will feature 68 rooms, a 120-seat restaurant and a lounge that includes a revolving bar.
Along the way, the project was modified, with a banquet space taken out to make way for more rooms. In a quick meeting with only a handful in attendance, Empire State Development Corporation officials gave formal approval to a loan agreement that helped make those adjustments possible.
"We're essentially just, as a board, approving the process that had been taking place, really, over a couple of years," said Sam Hoyt, ESD regional president. "Once the work was complete, the board then approves it and the payment is processed."
Hoyt says the hotel, being developed by local businessman Mark Croce, will be a welcome addition to downtown Buffalo's hotel stock. According to the Curtiss Hotel's website, the facility is expected to open later this spring.
Hoyt joked that there was only one downside to the project: the former Continental club was torn down to make way for the project.
"I was hoping that with all the rehab that's taking place in Buffalo that we'd get another punk bar back in Buffalo," he quipped.
