A new name has been given to a proposed nature trail and greenway along Buffalo's DL&W rail corridor. The Western New York Land Conservancy today unveiled what it calls The Riverline, a 1.5-mile ribbon that runs along the Buffalo River from the area near the Tesla plant to the DL&W Terminal near Canalside.
The conservancy worked with Block Club, a local branding and strategy agency, to develop a name and identity for the project, which is envisioned as a nature-centered public space.
"When it is completed, The Riverline will be a corridor of connections, connecting people to each other and to nature. It promises to attract new investments, strengthening our economic vibrancy and quality of life,” said Land Conservancy Executive Director Nancy Smith, in a statement
The Riverline runs through the Old First Ward, Perry and Valley neighborhoods. Sections of the trail have names that reflect the heritage of the corridor, including “The Del,” “The Junctures” and “The Basswoods.” A promotional video and website were also unveiled at a press conference Tuesday morning.
“By providing an inspiring place for residents to get outdoors and explore, The Riverline will have a positive impact on all Western New Yorkers. With future connections to Buffalo Harbor State Park and the Empire State Trail, The Riverline promises to be a much-loved addition to the unfolding puzzle of unique Buffalo destinations,” said NYS Parks, Western District Director Mark V. Mistretta, in a statement.
The next step is a design phase, which is being funding by the state parks office. Officials say the community will be involved in developing a final design.
