The city of Buffalo is seeking the public's input on two proposals for developing the Webster Block in downtown Buffalo.
Companies tied to developer Carl Paladino and the Buffalo Sabres are the two bidders for the project. Mayor Byron Brown says the city will announce the winning bid on August 15, but first they want to hear from citizens.
The proposals can be viewed on the city's website.
"Essentially this is the taxpayers property, and we want the tax payers to play role," said Mayor Brown. "We only have one chance to do this right and to develop this property the right way. So we are trying to build in as much public input and community involvement in our decision making as possible," said Brown.
Both proposals cost more than $60 million. The conceptual designs will be posted on city's Website and aired on the city's public access Channel 22.
A community panel will advise a selection committee. The Webster Block is a prime piece of land next to the growing waterfront. It's 1.7 acres that incudes a surface parking lot across from First Niagara Center.
Paladino's plan calls for a mixed use of residential living, office space and hotel rooms. The other plan, submitted by Sabres owner Terry Pegula, would feature two indoor ice rinks, retail and a sports bar.
