Ohio Street's transformation from an industrial roadway into a green parkway would connect Canalside with the outer harbor. As WBFO and AM 970's Mark Scott reports, a local lawmaker wants to fast-track the project to make sure already approved federal funding is not lost.
Congressman Brian Higgins says more than $5 million in federal funding will lapse one year from now if construction of the Ohio Street parkway is not underway. He says an environmental review has been done. Higgins says this and other waterfront improvements will bring new economic development opportunities to the waterfront.
"These projects are going to transform Buffalo from its old industrial image to one of exciting new possibilities," Higgins said. "This parkway project, approximately $11 million in total cost, will go a long way in providing quick, attractive and convenient access between downtown Buffalo and the outer harbor."
Plans call for adding greenspace and trees to Ohio Street along with pedestrian and bicycle pathways.