5.1 COUNTY’S ROLE ON THE WATERFRONT...Volume 1 / Park System Master Plan / 5.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY...

V o l u m e 1 / P a r k S y s t e m M a s t e r P l a n / 5 . 0 W A T E R F R O N T S T R A T E G Y / 5 . 0 W A T E R F R O N T S T R A T E G Y / 5 . 0 W A T E R F R O N T S T R A T E G Y / 5 . 0 W A T E R F R O N T S T R A T E G Y / 5 . 0 W A T E R F R O N T S T R A T E G Y 5-1

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Eighteen Mile Creek

5.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY

5.1 COUNTY’S ROLE ON THE WATERFRONT

5.1.1 GENERAL

The potential for waterfront development continues to be the sourceof much attention and discussion within Western New York. ErieCounty has one of the most beautiful and historically significantwaterfronts in all of the United States, including Lake Erie, the Niagaraand Buffalo Rivers, Cattaraugus and Eighteen Mile Creeks and theErie Canal, and yet much of the prime waterfront properties remainundeveloped or underutilized. Although economic developmenthas not been as quick to start here as in other parts of the country,the County has become increasingly aware of the potential impactthat a vibrant and successful waterfront will have on the futurequality of life for residents and the potential lure it could have fortourists and visitors. However, given the large expense of maintainingwaterfront properties, and given the current or projected fiscaldifficulties facing many towns, cities and counties across the state,Erie County cannot be expected to handle all of this waterfrontresponsibility themselves. Partnerships for both funding andstewardship of waterfront parks and trails will need to be formedwith local municipalities, and a strong pitch will need to be made tothe State of New York to maximize the potential of our significantregional waterfront assets.

· Given its regional significance, emphasis should beplaced on strengthening partnerships between localmunicipalities and Erie County, and on encouragingmore involvement from the State and Federal levels. Fewcounties and regions of the country have a linear trailsystem such as the Riverwalk or Canalway trail, and thisshould be seen as a wise investment and long-termstewardship effort by the State of New York, tocompliment its many other area parks, recreation andhistoric preservation attractions.

· Erie County should partner with the New York StateOffice of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

THE ULT IMATE GOAL I S TO HAVE AWATERFRONT TRAIL SYSTEM THAT LINKSLOCAL, COUNT Y AND STATE PARKSTOGETHER FROM EVANGOLA STATE PARK ATTHE SOUTHERN END OF ERIE COUNTY TOOLD FORT NIAGARA STATE PARK AT THENORTHERN END OF NIAGARA COUNTY.

View of Lake Erie shoreline from bluff at Wendt Beach

A M a s t e r P l a n f o r t h e E r i e C o u n t y P a r k S y s t e m5-2 R E N E W A L

(NYSOPRHP) and theNiagara Parks Commission(Ontario) to enhance its rolein the Eco-Tourismindustry. This would elevatethe county’s visibilitywithin the Niagara Region asa visitor destination forfishing, bird-watching,hiking, nature sight-seeing,water sports, etc.

5.1.2 NORTH SECTION

North of the City of Buffalo, ErieCounty has major involvement andinvestment in the Riverwalk waterfronttrail system, which serves as the overallrecreational “spine” linking numerouswaterfront parks, including local,county and state facilities. The countyalso owns and operates Ellicott CreekPark along the Erie Canal, classified asa “Heritage Park,” and Isle View Parkalong the Niagara River.

· The County should continueto promote regional trailefforts, while looking topartner with the State ofNew York for future trailenhancements, maintenanceand marketing. This linearpark and trail is certainly aregional asset that deservesattention and support at thehighest levels of government.Given its significance, thecounty should look todevelop partnering roles forthe local communities, as


well as with the State. Future emphasis should beplaced on trail linkages to Niagara Falls.

· The proposed Canalway Trail system, which includessome existing county trail sections, is an integral part ofthe Erie Canal “National Heritage” corridor and thusshould be considered for federal involvement. A sectionof the trail will pass directly through the county’sEllicott Creek Park, and will link directly to theRiverwalk system. Erie County should remain a partnerwith Niagara County, State of New York and NationalPark Service (Federal Government) for all futureplanning efforts.

· In addition to Isle View Park, the Cherry Farm Park isanother significant property that deserves attention fromboth the county and state levels of government. Thisreclaimed Brownfields property could be seen as anational model for land reclamation, shoreline/habitatrestoration and waterfront recreation.

· The County should revisit portions of the existingRiverwalk alignment due to the fact that some stretchesof the trail do not have much relationship to the waterand travel along some very busy roadways (Along RiverRoad from the Grand Island Bridge to Sheridan Drive).When constructed in the late 1970s, there were manyimpediments to linking the Riverwalk directly to theRiver due to active industries and land uses, however thepast 20 years have brought with it many changes inland uses along this section of the waterfront andopportunities now exist in some areas for realignmentand making a stronger and more aesthetically pleasingconnection between the Riverwalk and the River.

5.1.3 CENTRAL SECTION (CITY OF BUFFALO)

Erie County’s role in the central urban waterfront has been steadilyincreasing over the past few years. The County’s Riverwalk extendsfrom the Tonawandas into the City of Buffalo and meanders its way


southward to the Erie Basin Marina and Erie Canal Harbor site.Numerous smaller park sites are linked by the Riverwalk, includingtwo historic Olmsted Parks. Currently the County operates andmaintains Tow-Path Park and Ontario Street Boat Launch, andagreement for operation are pending between the City and Countyfor the new Squaw Island Park and existing Broderick Park –Underground Railroad Freedom Memorial. Two major waterfrontdevelopment areas that warrant extensive county and stateinvolvement are at the Inner Harbor (Erie Canal Harbor) and OuterHarbor, recently highlighted by the exciting news of a new 80-acreState Park at Gallagher Beach and the Small Boat Harbor.

· Similar to the Northern section mentioned above, theCounty should also revisit much of the existingRiverwalk alignment and aesthetics along the City’surban waterfront due to the fact that some stretches ofthe trail travel behind buildings, do not have anyrelationship to the water and are considered isolatedand dangerous. When constructed in the late 1970s,there were many impediments to linking the Riverwalkdirectly to the River due to active businesses and certainprivate property obstacles, however the past 20 yearshave brought with it many changes in land uses alongthe waterfront and opportunities now exist in someareas for realignment and making a stronger and moreaesthetically pleasing connection between the Riverwalkand the River.

· The County should continue to extend its hand to thefuture operations and maintenance of the nationallysignificant Olmsted Park System, with two propertiesalong the waterfront (Riverside and Front Parks),consistent with the recommendations outlined in thestudy recently completed by the Central ParkConservancy.

· Similar to the Cherry farm property in Tonawanda, theSquaw Island Park is a notable reclamation of a formerBrownfields site, with great potential for shorelinerestoration and habitat enhancement. The County’spending take over at this new park property will elevate


the importance of this site to a regional level.

· Broderick Park is a small but extremely important sitefor Western New York. It is home to the UndergroundRailroad Freedom Memorial and deserves County, Stateand Federal attention and future involvement. Earlierinvestment by the City of Buffalo has established theframework for the memorial, however a lack ofcontinued funding has halted any further phases ofdevelopment of the site. Agreements are pending for theCounty to assume a much needed operations andmaintenance role at Broderick Park.

· One major waterfront park site that warrants a largercounty role is at LaSalle Park. This 77-acre park sits atone of the most beautiful locations along the Erie countywaterfront, and is home to many events, concerts andactivities that serve a larger regional audience. Amaster plan has been established for LaSalle Park andearly phases of construction have been completed.However, funding has now diminished and attention athigher levels of government are needed to allow thissignificant park maximize its full potential. TheRiverwalk also travels through LaSalle Park and is inneed of significant upgrades and repairs.

· The County should continue its partnership role at theErie Canal Harbor site, and work closely with the City ofBuffalo and State of New York to provide an urbanwaterfront center that is vibrant and successful for yearsto come.

· The Outer Harbor area is Buffalo and Erie County’sgreatest potential for economic rebirth and waterfrontredevelopment. The County should continue to supportthe momentum currently underway with theestablishment of Buffalo’s first State Park. Furthercounty involvement and partnership with the State ofNew York could expand upon its recent successes andextend the State Park holdings to Tifft Nature Preserveand northwards towards Downtown Buffalo with a


linear waterfront park and trail system and to TimesBeach Nature Preserve. Other notable futuredevelopments in the Outer Harbor area could include aNational Industrial Heritage Corridor along the BuffaloRiver and a greenway connection from the Lake intoOlmsted’s South Park and the County-owned BotanicalGardens.

5.1.4 SOUTHERN SECTION

South of the Outer Harbor and City of Buffalo limits, Erie Countyhas been involved in the advancement of a lakefront recreationaltrail that would link the Riverwalk and Outer Harbor to points southand eventually to Evangola State Park. Emphasis should be placedon encouraging greater State of New York involvement andinvestment in this regional trail system, which serves as the overallrecreational “spine” linking numerous waterfront parks, includinglocal, county and state facilities. Two major county-owned facilitiesalong the southern Erie County waterfront are Bennett beach andWendt Beach. Given their proximity to Evangola State Park, and thecurrent sharing of manpower and resources, it may make senseover the long term for Erie County to partner with the State on bothof these properties for future operations and maintenance, marketingand capital expenditures.

· Similar to the northern reaches of the county’swaterfront, the County should continue to promoteregional trail efforts along the southern shoreline areas,while looking to partner with the State of New York forfuture trail developments, enhancements, maintenanceand marketing. The proposed lakefront trail isconsidered a regional asset that deserves attention andsupport at the highest levels of government. Given itssignificance, the county should look to developpartnering roles for the local communities, as well aswith the State.

· Both Wendt and Bennett Beaches should be consideredfor increased involvement by the State of New York.This would follow the precedent set by the State atWoodlawn beach State Park, and put greater emphasis


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5.2 BACKGROUND STUDIES ANDINITIATIVES

Erie County includes scenic lake and river systems, including extensiveshoreline along Lake Erie and the Niagara River, which are significantregional attractions and economic assets. Waterfront land ownershipis held by a number of interests, including State, County, localmunicipal governments and private landowners. It has been wellrecognized in New York State that a comprehensive approach toplanning and development of the region’s waterfronts is needed toensure that an appropriate balance is achieved between the protectionof natural resources, economic benefits, and recreationalopportunities. A strategy to address the management anddevelopment of the County’s waterfront parks was deemed animportant component of this Master Plan.

The Erie County waterfront strategy needs to address all water’sedges including lakes, rivers and canals. In particular the Lake Erie/Niagara River shoreline, the Buffalo River and the Erie Canal are keycorridors that have been identified as paramount to environmentalconservation, tourism potential and economic RENEWAL in WesternNew York. Several documents exist which provide over-arching orinterrelated policies and guidelines to direct the waterfront strategy.As well, there are a number of key projects that are in the planningstages, particularly along the City of Buffalo waterfront, that currentlyhave County support and involvement. These documents, inconjunction with the Parks Master Plan, need to be considered inthe discussion of future land acquisitions, parks improvements ordevelopment on the waterfront.

WATERFRONT

Erie County’s series of waterfront parks andtrails should be a continuum of the greatOlmsted tradition. Buffalo/Erie Countyhas a signif icant history of great parksplanning and publ ic spaces, which ishighlighted by the unique series of historicparks, parkways and urban spaces designedby Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr. between the1860s and 1890s. Buf falo’s Olmsted ParkSystem was the f irst of its kind in the UnitedStates.

Another world-class model of parks planningand connectivity is only a few miles awayacross the Niagara River. The NiagaraParks System in Ontario extends fromLake Erie (at Fort Erie near the PeaceBridge) through Niagara Falls and ends atLake Ontario (at Niagara–On-The-Lake).This is a successful model of a park systemwith funding support from the Provinciallevel of Government, and numerous revenue-generating facilities that return dollarsdirect ly back to the operat ions andmaintenance of the system.

Similar to what Erie County hopes to achievewith greater New York State involvementalong the Lake and River shoreline, theIthaca area is an example of where NewYork State Parks are clustered aroundunique natural water features, includingButtermilk Falls State Park, Allan H. TremanState Marine Park, Robert H. Treman StatePark, and the nearby Taughannuck FallsState Park. In addition, Letchworth StatePark is a linear park that has preserved aunique natural feature of the Genesee RiverGorge.

on Wendt and Bennett Beaches as significant regionalattractions and the preservation of natural sand dunes,beaches and historic structures.

· The County should consider working with State Parks ona seasonal marketing campaign that would link themajor lake front park properties of the Outer Harbor,Woodlawn Beach, Sturgeon Point, Wendt beach, BennettBeach and Evangola State Park.


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Out of these past studies and planning initiatives comes the impetusfor the current waterfront strategy, which includes an emphasis onsome major guiding themes. These themes include:

• Encouragement of greater New York StateInvolvement along the waterfront, in partnership withErie County and local communities. This regionalcooperation would elevate the waterfront to a higherlevel of recreational and tourism potential and develop itinto an asset of statewide significance.

• Emphasis on waterfront access and trail linkagesbetween destination parks and other area waterfrontattractions. Tie into the Seaway Trail marketing efforts byNew York State.• Focus on maintaining and strengthening themomentum that has begun on Buffalo’s Outer Harborwith the establishment of a New York State Parks facility.Use parks and open space as a means to leverage publicsupport and private investment.

• Preserving and enhancing the unique environmentalsystems along Erie County’s waterfront as a part of agrowing regional EcoTourism market.

A listing of specific studies and intitiatives can be found in thesidebar columns over the next few pages.

5.3 REGIONAL WATERFRONT SITES

The following is a synopsis of waterfront sites (from North to South)that include County owned and/or managed sites, along with othersites that represent the regional waterfront system. Many of theprojects have been achieved or are moving forward with Countyinvolvement. In the future the County is likely to be increasinglyasked to participate in waterfront projects of significance, such asthe Erie Canal Harbor (formerly the Buffalo Inner Harbor) and theOuter Harbor Lands. The projects identified below are projectsthat may warrant some level of County involvement under apartnership or collaborative arrangement with the State and Localgovernments. Given the statewide significance of the Erie Countywaterfront, including the Lake Erie shoreline, the Niagara Riverand Erie Canal, emphasis should be placed on increasing New

Commissioner’s Pond at Chestnut Ridge

Erie County waterfront initiatives and strategiesshould tie in to the ef forts already in place orunderway for the Seaway Trail. This scenicroute is the longest National RecreationTrail in the country. It runs for 454 milesfrom the Pennsylvania border north along LakeErie, the Niagara River and Lake Ontario toMassena and the St . Lawrence Seaway.Historic sites, scenic overlooks and naturalwonders can be found along its length.

Although New York State has had facilities atBuckhorn Island, Beaver Island and EvangolaState Parks for years, and the more recentWoodlawn Beach State Park, it is with theannouncement of the State’s new involvementon Buf falo’s Outer Harbor (Gallagher Beachand Small Boat Harbor) that the vision of acomprehensive linear waterfront park systemalong Erie County’s shoreline is f inally gettingcloser to becoming a reality. With future(potential) State involvement at such sites asBennett Beach, Wendt Beach and the CherryFarm, and more County/State involvement atsuch properties as Broderick Park, LaSalle Park,Times Beach, Tif f t Nature Preserve and theOlmsted Park System, etc., there would be acontinuous series of major “nodes” along thislinear park and trail system. As envisioned formany years, the precedent is being set for amajor waterfront park, parkway and trailsystem that rivals Ontario’s Niagara ParksSystem and f inally receives the attention itdeserves at both the State and federal levels.


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York State’s future role in preserving and enhancing this vitalwaterfront asset. In addition, there may be specific sites, includingthe Erie Canal corridor, that may warrant future Federal supportand involvement.

Recommendations, where proposed in earlier waterfront plans, arenoted, along with updates where actions have been taken or wheremore current ‘on the table’ initiatives exist. Refer to Figure 5-1 forlocations.

TOWN OF GRAND ISLAND

1. BUCKHORN ISLAND STATE PARKNew York State (New York State Office of Parks, Recreationand Historic Preservation - NYSOPRHP)

Buckhorn Island State Park is a 895 acre state-owned naturalenvironment area located at the northwest tip of Grand Island, andseparated from the rest of the island by Burnt Ship Creek. Comprisedof marsh, meadows, and woods, the site affords some of the bestwildlife viewing along the Niagara River. Major improvements wereinitiated in 2001, including additional observation areas, parkingareas and nature trails.

2. BEAVER ISLAND STATE PARKNew York State (NYSOPRHP)

Beaver Island State Park is a 951 acre state-owned multi-purposepark located at the southern tip of Grand Island. The park is openyear round and offers beach swimming, picnicking, nature trails,cross-country skiing, sledding and tobogganing along with aneighteen hole golf course. The notable Casino Building, which burneda number of years ago, if slated for restoration / reconstruction inthe near future. The park charges a per vehicle admission fee.

5.2.1. NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OFSTATE, DIVISION OF COASTALRESOURCES, COASTAL MANAGEMENTPLAN

Prepared in 1982 (revised 2001) the New YorkDepartment of State, Division of CoastalResources, Coastal Management Planprovides a comprehensive policy framework forreview and approvals of waterfront projects, anumber of which will have an inf luence onCounty initiatives. The Coastal Management Planprovides policies in the following areas:

· Development;· Fish and Wildlife;· Flooding and Erosion Hazards;· Public Access;· Recreation;· Historic and Scenic Resources;· Agricultural Lands;· Energy and Ice Management;

· Water and Air Resources.

5.2.2 NEW YORK STATE OPEN SPACECONSERVATION PLAN

The New York State Open SpaceConservation Plan - NYSOSCP (2002)prepared by the New York State Of f ice of ParksRecreation and Historic Preservation identif iespolicies and actions for conservation of openspace lands, signif icant natural areas, andcultural heritage sites throughout the State. Itencourages a collaborative working relationshipbetween the state, the federal government andlocal governments to identify and protect acohesive framework of open space lands forenvironmental protection and public recreationalpurposes. The Plan identif ies major resourceareas and conservation priority projects, forimmediate attention by the Department ofEnvironmental Conservation, the New YorkState Of f ice of Parks Recreation and HistoricPreservation, and their partners. Resource areaspertaining to the Erie County waterfront are:

· Great Lakes Shoreline, Islands and Tributaries· Niagara River Corridor· New York State Canal Recreationway System

NYSOSCP RESOURCE AREAS IN ERIE COUNTY

The Great Lakes Shoreline is recognized asone of the region’s most signif icant naturalresources, both from public access / recreationand wildlife and f isheries conservationperspectives. Conservation strategies proposed

A M a s t e r P l a n f o r t h e E r i e C o u n t y P a r k S y s t e m5-1 0 R E N E W A L

THE TONAWANDAS

3. ERIE CANALWAY TRAILJoint Venture

Stretching 363 miles from the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes,with 83 locks, the Erie Canal has been recognized as one of the greatengineering feats of the 19th Century, initiating an economic boomin the West. Today, it is also recognized as a significant heritageresource and a recreation amenity. The New York State CanalCorporation in conjunction with the National Park Service Rivers,Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program, local and stategovernment agencies, and local volunteers, are working to completethe Erie Canalway Trail. The 524-mile bicycle path will cross NewYork State following the towpaths of the existing and previous routesof the Erie Canal. At present, more than 200 miles of trail are openand available for public use. Through Erie County, the Erie CanalTrail is partially developed in the City of Tonawanda, and the Townof Amherst. The trails are used for hiking, biking, cross-countryskiing, and in some sections, for horseback riding. No motor vehiclesare allowed. The last remaining 4 mile segment between Tonawandaand Amherst will soon be completed. The project will includelandscaping and signage at several trailheads, and will include linksto the Riverwalk Trail and a segment from the State University ofNew York (SUNY) at Buffalo Amherst campus to Ellicott Creek Parkin Tonawanda and two town parks in Amherst.

4. ELLICOTT CREEK PARK Erie County

Ellicott Creek Park is 165.0 acre County owned park in the Town ofTonawanda. One of the original County parks acquired and developedfor multi-use in 1926, the park is located on the Erie Canal and istraversed by Ellicott Creek. It includes numerous heritage structures,a boat launch site for canoes and small water craft and is alsoconnected to the Ellicott Creek Trail, which is a 7.5 mile town-owned trail system in Amherst.

Ellicott Creek

Erie County Riverwalk

V o l u m e 1 / P a r k S y s t e m M a s t e r P l a n / 5 . 0 W A T E R F R O N T S T R A T E G Y / 5 . 0 W A T E R F R O N T S T R A T E G Y / 5 . 0 W A T E R F R O N T S T R A T E G Y / 5 . 0 W A T E R F R O N T S T R A T E G Y / 5 . 0 W A T E R F R O N T S T R A T E G Y 5-1 1

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5. TONAWANDA “GATEWAY” PARK ANDDEVELOPMENTCity of Tonawanda/North Tonawanda

Gateway Park is a newly renovated waterfront park on the Erie Canalin the Tonawandas. A component of the waterfront developmentlocated at the point where the Erie Canal meets the Niagara River isunderway as a joint venture between the cities of Tonawanda andNorth Tonawanda. Called “Gateway Point,” the proposed developmentincludes a museum to house Erie Canal memorabilia, historical boatmuseum, retail shops, restaurants, an Erie Canal Visitors Center,docking facilities for visiting pleasure craft and larger docking areascapable of mooring large historical ships.

6. ERIE COUNTY RIVERWALK SYSTEMErie County

The 13-mile Buffalo and Erie County Riverwalk extends along theNiagara River from Tonawanda through Buffalo. Beginning nearTonawanda’s Gateway Park, the Riverwalk traverses Niawanda andIsle View Parks before reaching Olmsted’s Riverside Park in Buffalo.Continuing south and crossing to Squaw Island, the trail continuesto Broderick Park (Underground Railroad Freedom Memorial) andBird Island Pier before crossing back over the Black Rock Canal, andcontinuing past or near other key desintation waterfront park sites;including Olmsted’s Front Park, LaSalle Park, before terminatingjust south of the Erie Basin Marina. The trail is proposed to continuesouthward, as waterfront revitalization takes place. Rest areas(“Windows on the Water”) include a River overlook near the GeneralMotors facility, and periodic fishing spots along the historic ErieCanal retaining wall. Tow Path Park is a new 2.3 acre county-ownedfacility at the foot of Hertel Avenue, that also provides fishingopportunities.

7. NIA-WANDA PARKCity of Tonawanda

Nia-Wanda Park is a linear park located along the shore of the NiagaraRiver on the site of the abandoned Erie Canal and Towpath, in theCity of Tonawanda. The site connects to the County-owned IsleView Park at the outlet of Two-Mile creek and is primarily used forwalking, biking, boat launching, fishing access, and picnicking. The

multi-use Riverwalk trail traverses this narrow riverfront property.

by the NYSOSCP for the Great Lakes Shoreline,Islands and Tributaries are:

· Recommendations made by the Great LakesBasin Advisory Council for improving waterquality and preservation of important open spaceresources within the Basin should be pursued;

· State, county and municipal governments shouldcontinue to purchase and develop access sites,including boat launches, along the Great Lakes;

· Important habitats should be protected andrestored through strict enforcement of existinglaws;

· More communities should be encouraged toprepare local waterfront revitalization programs

under the State’s Coastal Management Program.

The Niagara River Corridor includes world-renowned, unique and scenic resources includingthe falls and gorge. The NYSOSCP recognizesthe need for protection of the shoreline and itslinkages, access, and scenic character, andidentif ies opportunities for a trail system linkingstate and local parks and historic sites, both inthe US and in Canada. The Niagara Rivercorridor is also of f icially designated an“Important Bird Area” for its signif icance as amigratory route for waterfowl. Nineteen speciesof gulls alone have been identif ied, representingalmost half of the world’s 45 species.

Conservation strategies proposed by theNYSOSCP for the Niagara River Corridor are:

· Work closely with local communities, the NYPower Authority, Empire State DevelopmentCorporation, the City of Buffalo, NiagaraFrontier Transportation Authority, and New YorkThruway Authority, the Niagara Falls BridgeCommission, and Canadian agencies to completeand/or implement the recommendations of the

various planning efforts including:

NIAGARA RESERVATION MASTER PLAN

NIAGARA GORGE ACCESS PLAN

NIAGARA RIVER REMEDIAL ACTION PLAN

BUFFALO INNER HARBOR WATERFRONT

PROJECT

· Conservation easements, fee purchase, cooperativeagreements, zoning and other strategies should beconsidered in protecting and maintaining theresource, developing trail systems, improving waterquality and fishing opportunities and enhancing

public access.

Completion of the 348 mile Erie Canalway Traillinking Lake Erie to the Hudson River, is a key


8. VETERAN’S MEMORIAL PARKCity of Tonawanda

Veteran’s Memroial Park is a large, multi-purpose park located onthe banks overlooking the Niagara River in the City of Tonawanda.The site is adjacent to Nia-Wanda Park and Two-Mile Creek, and liesnear the north end of the County-owned Isle View Park. The Park isnoted for its large trees, playground and picnic facilities, and athleticfields. These park fields are also utilized by the adjacent TonawandaJr./Sr. School.

9. TWO MILE CREEK GREENWAYErie County

In 1999, the Two Mile Creek Trail was completed by the County,providing a key recreational link from the Riverwalk at Niawandaand Isle View Parks to Sheridan Park in Tonawanda. It will soon beextended south to reconnect with the Riverwalk at the foot ofSheridan drive.

10. ISLE VIEW PARKErie County

Isle View Park is 49 acre county-owned developed park located onthe site of the abandoned Erie Canal and Towpath, in the Town ofTonawanda. The site was acquired by the County in 1959 and isprimarily used for boat launching, fishing access, and picnicking.The multi-use trail is used for biking, rollerblading, strolling andcross-country skiing, and is connected to Nia-Wanda Park and theTwo Mile Creek Greenway.

11. CHERRY FARM PARKNYSDEC/Town of Tonawanda

Located on the Niagara River, across from Grand Island, the 55-acreCherry Farm site on River Road was once used both for disposal ofsteel manufacturing waste and as an industrial landfill site. The sitewas designated a hazardous waste site by the New York StateDepartment of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). In the mid-


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nineties a concerted effort was made to clean up the site, as part ofa collaborative agreement to reduce toxic discharge to the NiagaraRiver, by NYSDEC, the United States Environmental ProtectionAssociation, the Ontario Ministry of the Environment andEnvironment Canada. Using a comprehensive groundwaterextraction and treatment system, combined with remedial measuresto clean-up the shoreline and restore wetlands, the site was cleanedup to parkland standards through the joint efforts of the state, localagencies and the PRP Group (Potentially Responsible Parties). Futuredevelopment of the site is proposed to include a range of outdoorrecreation facilities, passive use areas, trails, and an interpretive center.

12. AQUA LANE PARKTown of Tonawanda

Aqua Lane Park is a 5-acre town-owned, developed park on theNiagara River at the foot of Sheridan Drive. This small site is situatedbeside the Tonawanda Boat Harbor and is connected to the Riverwalkbike path.

13. STRAWBERRY ISLAND/MOTOR ISLANDNYSDEC

The Strawberry Island and Motor Island Shallows is a 400-acreshallow-water habitat, located in the Niagara River, and officiallydesignated as a New York State significant coastal fish and wildlifehabitat. The area contains extensive beds of submerged aquaticplants and is used by a variety of migratory waterfowl and bymuskellunge as spawning and nursery habitat, making the NiagaraRiver muskellunge fishery one of the best in New York. A statefunded shoreline restoration project was announced in 2001 thatwill stop the erosion of Strawberry Island and restore three acres ofwetland habitat along the eastern and western arms of the island.

CITY OF BUFFALO

14. OLMSTED’S RIVERSIDE PARKCity of Buffalo

Riverside Park is a historic, 37-acre, city-owned park, designed byFrederick Law Olmsted, Sr., as part of the impressive park system

objective of the New York State CanalRecreationway System and one of thepriority demonstration projects for the NYSOSCPin Western New York. The canal is an importantrecreation resource for boating and f ishing, andincludes adjacent wetlands and wildlife habitat.Five of the state’s largest cities are located alongthe Canal, and the corridor of fers opportunitiesfor a long distance trail system linking historicdistricts and sites. Through Erie County, the trailhas been implemented through Ellicott CreekPark. It also links to Isle View Park and theRiverwalk trail system along the Niagara River.

Conservation strategies proposed by theNYSOSCP for the Canal Recreationway System,as they pertain to Erie County are:

· Continue to work with the Canal RecreationwayCommission to foster local-state cooperation andcoordination;

· Implement the Canal Recreationway Plan;· Encourage communities along the canal to prepare

local waterfront revitalization programs under theState’s Inland Waterways Program;

· Enhance opportunities for public access and waterrelated development consistent with public safety andcanal operations;

· Relate restoration of villages and cities to the canaland its history;

· Coordinate with local and regional agencies toimplement connections and extensions with other trailsystems such as the Riverwalk, and State Park andParkway systems along Lake Ontario and Erie.

· Ensure public access as a condition of all permits,leases and sales of canal lands;

· Work with the newly created Erie Canalway HeritageCorridor Commission (established by Congress) toenhance heritage tourism, education, recreation and

development along the corridor.

NYSOSCP PRIORITY PROJECTS IN ERIECOUNTY

In addition to being identif ied as signif icantresource areas, the Great Lakes and NiagaraRiver Access, Shorelines and Vistas, and the NewYork State Canal Recreationway System areidentif ied as conservation priority projects. TheBuffalo River Corridor is also identif ied as aconservation priority project in Erie County. TheNYSOSCP recognizes the signif icance of theriver corridor to enhance access to Lake Erie forrecreation and f ishing and to protect the vitalwildlife habitat contained within the corridor andin the remaining f loodplain forest area withinmetropolitan Buf falo. Other waterfront relatedconservation priority projects in Erie County areCattaraugus Creek and its tributaries,


within the City of Buffalo. Originally situated overlooking the NiagaraRiver and the Erie Canal, the park is now separated from the River bythe NYS Thruway (I-190). This multi-purpose, developed park offersmany passive and active recreational activities, including walking,picnicking and playgrounds, as well as baseball/softball fields, iceskating, swimming pool and wading pool, and a seniors center. TheRiverwalk trail system passes near Riverside Park, connected by atrail linkage over the highway, linking it to other parks in Buffalo andTonawanda. A series of new river overlook have been constructedalong River Road providing views over the Niagara River. The park islisted on the National Register of Historic Places and is currentlyowned and operated by the City of Buffalo. The Buffalo OlmstedParks Conservancy, an independent not-for-profit communityorganization is responsible for the promotion, preservation,maintenance and restoration of the historic Olmsted system of parksand parkways. The current master plan for the park calls for landscapeimprovements and reinstatement of some of the park’s formerelements, as well as phasing out of some of the active recreationfacilities in favor of a more authentic passive park setting in keepingwith the original park design. The County is increasingly becomingmore involved in the Olmsted parks (the Botanical Gardens wereassumed in 1981) as the parks are seen to be a regional asset morecompatible with the County’s mandate for historic preservation andpassive recreation. Discussions are ongoing between the City ofBuffalo, Erie County and the Conservancy, over a possible increasedrole for the County within the entire historic Olmsted Parks system.

15. SCAJAQUADA TRAILJoint Venture - County, State, City of Buffalo

The Scajaquada Trail is an inland link connecting the Riverwalk toOlmsted’s Delaware Park and Buffalo’s Museum District/OlmstedCrescent (“Arts, Parks and sciences in the Heart of Buffalo” - Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Historical Society, Buffalo Zoo, Burchfirld-PenneyArt Center, Forest Lawn Cemetery, Darwin Martin House, ForeverElmwood, etc.). Opened in 1999, the Scajaquada Trail was a jointundertaking among the County, State, and City of Buffalo.


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16. BUFFALO GREENWAYSJoint Venture - City of Buffalo and County

The Buffalo Greenways Plan is an ambitious effort to connect (andreconnect) Buffalo’s parks and neighborhoods by a series of parkwaysand recreational trails throughout the city. This plan was firstdeveloped in the 1860s/1870s by Frederick Law Olmsted Sr., whoconceived of a grand system of parks and parkways from the northside of the city to the south. An example of the northern system oftrails and connections includes: Front Park via Porter Avenue toColumbus Park (originally Olmsted’s Prospect Park), to SymphonyCircle and Kleinhans Music Hall, up Richmond Avenue through WestFerry Circle to Colonial Circle, to Bidwell Parkway to Soldiers Circle,to Lincoln and Chapin Parkways, to Delaware Park, via HumboldtParkway to MLK Park, etc. Trails continue southerly from MLKPark, as well as the waterfront and Downtown areas, to South Buffalo,including linkages to Olmsted’s Cazenovia and South Parks, withlinkages to such sites as the Botanical Gardens (Erie County) andOur Lady of Victory Basilica.

17. SQUAWISLAND PARKCity of Buffalo

Squaw Island park is a city-owned waterfront property locatedadjacent to the Black Rock Canal Locks and accessible by bridgefrom Niagara Street. Squaw Island Park is part of the Riverwalk trailsystem and is currently being redeveloped as a naturalized park forfishing, birdwatching and picnicking.

18. BRODERICK PARK - UNDERGROUNDRAILROAD FREEDOM MEMORIALErie County

Broderick Park and the banks of the Niagara River hold a specialplace in Buffalo’s history. During the early to mid 1800s, this areawas one of the crossing points for escaping slaves on their journeyto freedom across the river in Canada. In 2000, the Broderick Parksite took on national significance as the Underground RailroadFreedom Memorial, which includes a heritage memorial,commemorating the island’s role as one of the staging areas anddestinations for the Underground Railroad. This impressive site isalso a popular fishing access point, and offers informal seating areas,

notable for its contributions to the salmonidf ishery in Lake Erie, and the Eighteen MileCreek and gorge, which also outlets to theLake, for its signif icance as stop-over habitat formigratory songbirds and diversity of wildlifehabitat.

5.2.3 HORIZONS ACTION PLAN FORTHE ERIE COUNTY WATERFRONT

A strategic plan already exists for the Lake Erie/Niagara River shoreline in the Action Plan forthe Erie County Waterfront, undertaken bythe Horizons Waterfront Commission in 1992.The plan def ines a vision for the waterfrontvision based on the following goals:

· To provide a waterfront that gives significantenrichment to the quality of life;

· To rejuvenate and sustain the waterfront as a clean,inviting, and healthy environment;

· To achieve a prosperous waterfront by pursuingeconomic development that advances environmentalquality and enriches the quality of life.

The Horizons plan addresses recreation andopen space, development opportunities andtransportation issues for the entire waterfront,based on several key principles:

· Create and improve waterfront activity centers forpeople to enjoy. The plan proposes a series of nodes ofactivity along the waterfront, some focused onrecreation and open space, others on residential orcommercial development.

· Connect the centers to each other and to thecommunity through a “greenway” system oflandscaped boulevards, scenic roads, bike/hike trails,and transit stops.

· Humanize and bring to order the waterfrontenvironment to capture the spirit and drama of the

natural and man-made setting.

5.2.4 BUFFALO - FORT ERIEINTERNATIONAL WATERFRONTGATEWAY

The Buffalo-Fort Erie InternationalWaterfront Gateway Strategy is a collaborativeef fort between the border communities ofBuf falo, on the US side, and Fort Erie, on theCanadian side. Conceived in 1998, the GatewayStrategy aims at revitalizing the waterfronts andneighborhoods of the two communities toencourage tourist visitation, and to improveeconomic conditions. The proposed Gatewayplan includes recommendations for reconnecting


naturalized plantings and a small concession building. The BirdIsland Pier extends southerly from Broderick Park as a breakwaterbetween the Niagara River and Black Rock Canal. Although currentlyowned and mainatined by the City of Buffalo, negotiations arecurrently going on to transfer the operations and maintenance tothe County. This is certainly one of the waterfront sites that deservesboth State and federal involvement.

19. BIRD ISLAND PIER United States Army Corps of Engineers

The breakwater between the Niagara River and Black Rock Canal isknown as the Bird Island Pier. The pier is accessible from BroderickPark and can be walked for almost 2 miles along the rivers edge.This pedestrian route affords unique and awesome views of theLake, River and Canal from beneath the Peace Bridge and off-shorefrom LaSalle Park. To highlight, the Niagara River is an ImportantBird Area (IBA), and is one of the best places in North America forviewing gulls and waterfowl. The site is well known by NiagaraRegion birders as one of the few viewing locations along the built-up Buffalo riverfront. It is also a popular spots for fishing.

20. PEACE BRIDGE INTERNATIONAL GATEWAY-JOINT VENTUREPeace Bridge Authority, City of Buffalo, Federal

A collaborative effort between Buffalo and Fort Erie, Ontario, aimedat revitalizing the waterfronts and neighborhoods of the twocommunities to encourage tourist visitation and to improve economicconditions. This gateway enhancement project is tied to the currentinvestigations for ways of improving the fixed transportation linkbetween the two countries including potential redevelopment or“twinning” of the existing Peace Bridge or developing a second newbridge location.

21. OLMSTED’S FRONT PARK City of Buffalo

Front Park is a 25.5-acre city-owned Olmsted park in the City ofBuffalo listed on the National register of Historic Places. Locatedoverlooking the Niagara River and Lake Erie (and NYS Thruway), the


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park was once widely used for ceremonies and other civic displays,but is now increasingly encroached upon by the surrounding roadnetwork, which includes access to the Peace Bridge. Today, theframework of the historic Olmsted design remains, although roadwayalterations and the addition of playing fields and park maintenancestructures have changed its character and uses. The present masterplan for the park calls for restoring greenspace within the park;however proposed changes in the Peace Bridge area, including anew or updated bridge, and changes to the Customs area, couldfurther alter the park, either positively or negatively depending uponthe bridge alternative selected. Currently owned and operated bythe City of Buffalo, discussions are ongoing between the City ofBuffalo, Erie County and the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy,over whether the County will assume responsibility for the entireOlmsted Parks system in future years.

22. FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT BOATHOUSE Joint Venture – City of Buffalo/Erie County

A Frank Llloyd Wright-designed boathouse, originally designed forthe University of Wisconsin but never constructed, will be built onlands on the Black Rock channel. The boathouse is to be constructedadjacent to the West Side Rowing Club, at an estimated cost of $4.1million. The boathouse reconstruction is being achieved throughcollaborative efforts by the Frank Lloyd Wright’s Rowing BoathouseCorp., a non-profit organization, and various government agencies.Buffalo State College provided the parcel of land, which was slatedfor its Great Lakes Research Center, in return for other waterfrontland donated by the state Division of Military Affairs. Erie Countyhas designated $200,000 in funding for the boathouse, and anadditional $800,000 toward the Research Center. The boathouse willbe used as a working boathouse by the rowing club, and cross-marketed as a tourist attraction with other Wright sites: Graycliffand the Darwin H. Martin House.

23. COLONEL WARD PUMPING STATION City of Buffalo

Located at the north end of LaSalle Park the Colonel Ward PumpingStation building is a magnificent industrial heritage structure. Withinthe overall master plan for LaSalle Park, it was recommended that

downtown areas to the waterfront through agreen network of trails, treed boulevards, parks,and ‘windows on the water.

5.2.5 ERIE CANAL HARBOR(FORMERLY BUFFALO’S INNERHARBOR)

Redevelopment of Buffalo’s Inner Harbor haslong been a longstanding anchor of pastwaterfront revitalization plans. The recentlyrevised plan on the table has been reworkedfollowing a comprehensive engineering review,and includes an increased emphasis on thehistorical signif icance of the Erie Canal, and thearea’s 19th and 20th century industrial history.The plan includes re-watering of the historicCommercial Slip at the terminus of the ErieCanal to accommodate commercial passengervessels, tall ships, and tour boats. Fundingcommitments for the Inner Harbor Project weremade in 2002, by the City of Buf falo, Erie Countyand the State. An update of the Harbor Plan isexpected in 2003.

5.2.6 BUFFALO OUTER HARBORPROJECT

Since the decline of industrial and manufacturingbusinesses along the Lake Erie waterfront,through the 1980’s, there has been muchdiscussion over the future of South Buffalo’souter harbor lands. Since 1999, the City ofBuffalo, Erie County and the Buffalo EconomicRenaissance Corporation have been leading aninitiative to rejuvenate the over 1200 acres offormer heavy industrial lands to new recreationaland economic uses. The site is considered one ofBuf falo’s best opportunities to boost economicand commercial development. Most of the land iscurrently controlled by the Niagara FrontierTransportation Authority (NFTA). The NFTAoriginally acquired the property in the 1950’s inanticipation of the need to expand Buffalo’s portfacilities; however the opening of the St.Lawrence Seaway in 1959 made that expansionunnecessary.

Using successful waterfront developments inBaltimore, Chicago and Cleveland as examples,one recent idea integrates environmentalrestoration, parkland, new public amenities,housing and commercial initiatives. Variouscombinations of mixed use have been proposed,with emphasis on retail, recreational, residentialand light industrial, and a commitment tomaintaining public access. As of January 2003,New York State has committed funds for a new


the great hall of the building be adaptively reused as a shared-usefacility, such as a Buffalo Visitor’s Center or an Industrial HeritageMuseum. However, after the events of Sept. 11, 2001, securityissues are now of primary concern for such vital facilities, whichwould likely preclude such a “public” venture at this time.

24. LASALLE PARKCity of Buffalo

LaSalle Park is a 77-acre city-owned multi-purpose park in the Cityof Buffalo, strategically located on Lake Erie at the junction of theNiagara River. Currently Buffalo’s premier waterfront park, the sitehouses festivals and concerts, and provides numerous sports fields,as well as biking, rollerblading and strolling on the Riverwalk. Soccerfields run by Delaware Soccer club are also located in the park. Acomprehensive master plan was completed a few years ago andconstruction has been completed on initial phases of the park work.

25. BUFFALO AND ERIE COUNTY NAVALMILITARY PARKCity of Buffalo

The Naval Military Park and Museum is located on the Buffalo Riverand is home to the destroyer U.S.S. Sullivans (listed on the NationalRegister of Historic Places), the missile cruiser U.S.S. Little Rock, anda submarine, the U.S.S. Croaker. The Park is listed in the NationalRegister of Historic Places, and is operated as a non-profitorganization supported by memberships and donations, admissionfees, ship’s store, events bookings. The park hosts overnightencampments for up to 225 youth, berthed aboard the USS LittleRock. The Naval Park is slated to be relocated in the near future, butwill remain a vital part of the new Erie Canal Harbor project.

26. ERIE BASIN MARINACity of Buffalo

Erie Basin Marina is one of the favorite spots for Western NewYorkers during the warmer months. The park is a city-owned facilityoffering seasonal and transient docking, a boat launch and otherservices for recreational watercrafts in the City of Buffalo. Locatedat the foot of Erie Street near the heart of Buffalo’s downtown, theErie Basin lands include an observation tower and public greenspace.

Ohio Street Park


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It is located close to Waterfront Village, a mixed use developmentlocated adjacent to Buffalo’s Central Business District. The BuffaloRiver frontage also serves as the departure point for cruise boatsthat tour the Black Rock Canal and Lake Erie.

27. BUFFALO RIVER CORRIDOR - INDUSTRIALHERITAGE TRAILCity of Buffalo

The historic grain elevators are located along the Buffalo River justsouth and east of Downtown Buffalo. Once a bustling industrialarea, the elevators and industrial buildings stand as fascinatingreminders of the area’s history as one of America’s greatest workingwaterfronts. These impressive structures have been studied andadmired worldwide by architects, structural engineers and historybuffs as one of the great innovations in architectural design formand use of materials. Innovative re-uses for the buildings have beeninvestigated in conjunction with a visioning session on the SouthBuffalo Redevelopment Plan and other planning efforts. Ideas haveincluded a national industrial heritage park along the river, to multi-media presentations on the granary façades, as well as theincorporation of an industrial heritage trail that would run along theBuffalo River, linking to lakefront lands.

28. BUFFALO RIVER PARKS - OHIO STREET,SMITH STREET, AND BAILEY AVENUEErie County

In 1997, several new sites (former industrial properties) along theBuffalo River were naturalized through a cooperative effort by theErie County Department of Environment and Planning, the Buffaloand Erie County Private Industry Council and the West Seneca YouthBureau-Americorps Program. Students participated in a seven weeklong national youth employment and training program, working toclear land, create trails and plant vegetation at the three parks.Program funding was provided by the U.S. Environmental ProtectionAgency and U.S. Department of Labor through a Coastal WatershedManagement Project, Wetlands Protection Project and Employmentand Training Program. Additional funding for the new parks toprovide public access to the river and improve fish and wildlife habitatswas provided by a number of local, state and federal agencies. Anadditional trail connection, overlook area and river side remediation

State Park on the Outer Harbor to includeboth Gallagher Beach and the Small BoatHarbor. This would be combined with aproposed waterfront recreational trail andother additional parkland expansion in thefuture. Another proposal at the north end of theouter Harbor is for the development of TimesBeach into a Nature Preserve.

5.2.7 CITY OF BUFFALOCOMPREHENSIVE PLAN

The City of Buffalo Comprehensive Planrecommends a series of Action steps relating tothe South Buffalo waterfront area, including:

· Create a waterfront focal point at the terminusof Main St. on the Lake Erie waterfront, to bedeveloped as a mixed use waterfront village,including office commercial, residential,recreation and open space;

· Continued financial support for the developmentof Gallagher Beach;

· Promotion of the Seaway Trail as an attractionfor City, region and state ad protection of thecorridor through development controls as aNational Scenic Byway;

· Creation of Gateways on Fuhrmann Boulevard,Tifft Street and the City limit, through signage,landscaping and site amenities;

· Promotion of Tifft Nature Preserve, includingimproved connections to Times Beach;

· Implementation of the Times Beach Master Planas a Nature Preserve destination area.

· Completion of a Local WaterfrontRevitalization Plan.

A component of the South Buffalo project is theimprovement of transportation infrastructure inthe Southtowns area, and this has been thesubject of several studies and initiation of ascoped Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)process. Original proposals for the SouthtownsConnector called for an inland expressway andtunnel system to replace the Buffalo Skyway/Route 5. A recent report issued by the New YorkState Department of Transportation (NYSDOT)refocuses the terms of reference for the projectto better meet local land use plans andbrownf ields restoration objectives, including:

· Improving road access to specific developablesites within the Southtowns industrial area,including the Outer Harbor, Bethlehem Steel


/ enhancement project was completed adjacent to Erie County’sSmith Street site by the owners of the Buffalo Color Corporation.

29. SENECA BLUFFS Erie County/City of Buffalo

Seneca Bluffs is located on the east side of Seneca Street immediatelysouth of the bridge over the Buffalo River. As part of a larger NYSfunded strategy to improve water quality and restore wetland habitatsin the Great Lakes watershed, Erie County and the City of Buffaloare working together to restore the Buffalo River corridor. The SenecaBluffs project will restore 15 acres of mixed floodplain habitat on theBuffalo River, reduce erosion of the bluffs, and treat stormwaterrunoff.

30. SOUTH BUFFALO REDEVELOPMENT AREAJoint Venture – City of Buffalo/County, State

The City of Buffalo is proceeding with the South BuffaloRedevelopment project, which is one of the largest brownfieldsinititiatives in New York state and has maintained its commitmentto the redevelopment of the former steel/industrial lands in thedevelopment of its new Comprehensive Plan (2002 Draft). The projectcovers almost 1200 acres and includes the redevelopment of theformer Republic Steel and Union Ship Canal areas, The projectincludes transportation plans to construct a direct roadway fromthe I-90 and accommodation of the potential Southtowns connectorproject.

31. HISTORIC BUFFALO LIGHTHOUSEBuffalo Lighthouse Association

The Buffalo Lighthouse is located at the mouth of the Buffalo Riverat the north end of the Outer Harbor lands. The site is situated onlands owned and occupied by the Coast Guard and is licensed to theBuffalo Lighthouse Association for restoration. Built in 1833 to replacea smaller lighthouse constructed in 1818, the lighthouse is listed inthe National Register of Historic Places. In support of the Association’sefforts to preserve and restore the lighthouse, the City of Buffalohas developed a shoreline promenade at Lighthouse Point.


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32. TIMES BEACH NATURE PRESERVENFTA/City of Buffalo

Times Beach is strategically located near the north end of the OuterHarbor on Lake Erie, at the mouth of the Buffalo River. It is at thenorth end of Fuhrmann Boulevard. The site is informally accessedfor birding (particularly shorebirds) and other wildlife viewing. In2001 the US Army Corps of Engineers initiated a study to investigatethe potential impacts of opening up the site for public access.Opportunities being investigated range from simple trails to a moreelaborate boardwalk system including interpretive stations and aneducational center. The potential for a fishing pier is also beinginvestigated, although preliminary investigations indicate that thiswould need to be a substantial structure due to wave and ice action.The City of Buffalo Comprehensive Plan recommends thedevelopment of a detailed development plan for the site, withimproved connections to the Tifft Nature Preserve. Futureconsideration should be given to extending the New York StateParks land holdings along the entire Outer Harbor to encompassTimes Beach as an appropriate addition to this State waterfrontpark facility.

33. BUFFALO OUTER HARBOR WATERFRONTTRAIL Erie County/City of Buffalo/New York State/NiagaraFrontier Transportation Authority (NFTA)

As part of continued efforts toward a Lake Erie recreational greenway,an 8.5-mile bike and pedestrian pathway will be constructed,extending from the former DL&W railroad terminal at the foot ofMain Street to Gallagher Beach on Fuhrmann Boulevard. The trailwill continue where the Riverwalk currently ends downtown,connecting the Erie Basin Marina, HSBC Arena and other InnerHarbor features with Tifft Nature Preserve and the Small Boat Harborto the south. The trail is a cooperative venture led by the NiagaraFrontier Transportation Authority involving the City of Buffalo andErie County, and funded through grants provided to the State throughthe Federal Transportation Enhancements Program (TEP). The trailwill be located on a 75-to-90-foot-wide “green belt” that will becreated from reclaimed industrial brownfields along the harbor’sedge. Design work will begin in 2003 with completion expected in2004.

Lands, Republic Steel and the Union ShipCanalsite lands;

· Reconfiguring Route 5/Fuhrmann Boulevard/OhioStreet road system along the Outer Harbor landsinto a system of waterfront boulevards andarterials;

· Providing adequate service for commuter/commercial traffic between the Southtowns andDowntown Buffalo; and,

· Improved bus service, park and ride facilities,and pedestrian/bicycle trails, including theIndustrial Heritage Trail through the historicgranary / industrial waterfront area.

With the magnitude of the Outer Harbor Landsproject, it is envisioned that a multi-levelgovernmental approach to the planning anddevelopment of the lands will be required,including the support and involvement of ErieCounty. In recent months, at both the State andFederal level, support has been indicated for theproject along with a commitment to address landownership issues, and investigate fundingopportunities.


34. SMALL BOAT HARBOR - NY STATE PARKNiagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) / NewYork State

The Small Boat Harbor, along with adjacent Gallagher Beach, hasjust been designated as the first NY State Park facility along the Cityof Buffalo’s waterfront. Currently, the NFTA owns and operates thissmall craft harbor off Fuhrmann Boulevard in the South BuffaloOuter Harbor area. This recent State Park announcement has elevatedthese important properties to statewide significance and has givennew life to new development prospects along the Outer Harbor andother sites along Erie County’s waterfront.

35. GALLAGHER BEACH - NY STATE PARK Joint Venture, New York State/ Erie County

In recent years the County and the State have collaborated on theredevelopment of Gallagher Beach including a boardwalk,improvements to jet ski and wind surfing launch sites, developmentof sunbathing and picnicking areas and the resurfacing of parkingareas. The site is located at the south end of the Outer Harbor.Recent announcements by New York State will see the transfer ofcontrol of Gallagher Beach and the adjacent Small Boat Harborproperties from the NFTA to the New York State Office of Parks,Recreation and Historic Preservation (NYSOPRHP). This designationincludes approximately 80-acres of Buffalo’s Outer Harbor area as aNew York State waterfront park and recreation area, with a connectinglinear waterfront park that extends from the Small Boat Harbor tobeyond Gallagher Beach near the City of Lackawanna border. Thebeachfront would be developed to become a full-service swimmingand sunbathing beach and the boat harbor would be improved toincrease its regional appeal and commercial viability. This recentState Park announcement has elevated these important propertiesto statewide significance and has given new life to other newdevelopment prospects along the Outer Harbor and other sites alongErie County’s waterfront.

36. TIFFT NATURE PRESERVECity of buffalo /Buffalo Museum of Science

Tifft Nature Preserve is 264.0-acre city owned nature preserve inthe South Buffalo area. Located on brownfield lands formerlyoccupied by industrial canals and slips, the Preserve includes 75


acre of marshland, and open water ponds, along with woodlands,thickets, and grassy fields, and is on a primary migration route forwaterfowl, warblers and passerines. The site is the largest naturepreserve in the City of Buffalo and one of the largest and only urbannature preserves within any city in the United States. This site ismanaged by the Buffalo Museum of Science. The City of BuffaloComprehensive Plan recommends the improvement of connectionsbetween the Tifft Nature Reserve and Times Beach at the mouth ofthe Buffalo River. Given the proximity of the Tifft Nature Preserveto Gallagher Beach, Small Boat Harbor and Outer Harbor Developmentarea, this site is also a prime candidate for a New York State takeoverand inclusion in a major waterfront State Park facility.

CITY OF LACKAWANNA

37. REDEVELOPMENT OF BETHLEHEM STEELPROPERTYPrivate/Public Joint Venture

The former Bethlehem Steel Company occupied over 2000 acres ofland in Lackawanna. In 1998, the Bethlehem Steel Corporationannounced a comprehensive Land Redevelopment Plan that couldeventually convert 1,100 acres of its landholdings into a commercial/industral area, with a distribution and transshipment center. Thedevelopment would include 485 acres of greenway and recreationaluses designed to reconnect the community with the waterfront,including: a new regional marina, the realignment of Smokes Creek;enhancement of the Route 5 corridor; new public access via aGreenway along Smokes Creek. Much of the site may becontaminated from former industrial uses, and as such is subject toU.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations for siteclean-up. In 2002, the EPA announced that it would remove portionsof the site from a federal agreement requiring Bethlehem Steel toinvestigate all of its lands at this time for environmentalcontamination, freeing up the company to undertake the assessmentand remediation of a 102 acre site. After the necessary remediationwork, Erie County, the City of Lackawanna and New York State willwork to redevelop the parcel into an industrial park.


TOWN OF HAMBURG

38. WOODLAWN BEACH STATE PARKNew York State

Woodlawn Beach State Park is a large natural sand beach, locatedon the easternmost shore of Lake Erie in the Town of Hamburg, justsouth of Lackawanna’s bethlehem Steel property. It is the largestsand beach closest to Buffalo and, as such, often attracts shorebirdsin the fall. A small corridor of underbrush that covers the dunesalong the beach provides cover for migrant birds in spring and fall.Two small streams empty into Lake Erie near the north end. A newbeach-related facility including restrooms, concessions and meetingrooms was recently completed by the State. This impressive newfacility can serve as a model for the potential facility for Erie County’sBennett Beach property.

39. WANAKAH BEACHTown of Hamburg

Currently, a Visitors Center for the Seaway Trail is proposed for theWaterworks site, located on Rte 5 in the community of Wanakah.The project is funded in part by grants from the New York StateOffice of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (NYSOPRHP),and the Federal Transportation Enhancement Program, and fundsfrom the Town of Hamburg. Site redevelopment for the three-phaseproject will include redevelopment of the building to house the visitorcenter facility, creating direct access to 400 feet of beachfront,construction of an observation deck and a fishing platform. Othersite improvements include seawall repairs and upgrades, repairs tothe foundation of a building, and the realignment of rip-rap.

40. ATHOL SPRINGS LAKEFRONT AREATown of Hamburg

Athol Springs is a small portion of the Town of Hamburg, a little lessthan 8 miles south of Downtown Buffalo and 2-miles south ofWoodlawn Beach State Park. A previous waterfront plan proposed alakefront promenade adjacent to waterfront restaurants andcommercial area. Situated on a bluff overlooking Lake Erie, the areais promoted by birders for observation of gulls and other waterfowl.


41. HAMBURG TOWN PARKTown of Hamburg

Hamburg Town Park is a 13-acre town-owned developed park locatedon Lake Erie, in the hamlet of Mount Vernon just south of AtholSprings. The park includes a beach, walking/biking and nature trails,picnicking and other related facilities and is promoted along withAthol Springs for its birdwatching opportunities. The sandy beach ispatrolled and offers safe swimming, a snack bar, change rooms andrest rooms. Adjacent to the swimming area is a boat launch; with aspecial area reserved for windsurfers. The park is limited to use byTown of Hamburg residents only.

42. EIGHTEEN MILE CREEKTown of Hamburg/Town of Eden/Town of Evans

The New York State Open Space Plan identifies this as a significantarea. Protection of the creek mouth and gorge within a naturepreserve area. Eighteen Mile Creek is a jewel along the Erie Countywaterfront and is renowned for its geological and prehistoricsignificance.

TOWN OF EVANS

43. STURGEON POINT MARINATown of Evans

Sturgeon Point Marina is a town-owned facility offering docking,mooring, loading and other services for recreational watercrafts inthe Town of Evans. Owned, operated and maintained by the town,the site includes hard surface launching ramps, parking for 100 carsand trailers, plus 167 single cars. Fishing and picnicking, are alsoavailable. Sturgeon Point is has an undeveloped shoreline areaadjacent to the marina and is accessed via Sturgeon Point Road.


44. WENDT BEACHErie County

Wendt Beach is a178.0-acre county-owned multi-purpose parklocated on Lake Erie. The park is located on the former Wendtestate and includes the old Wendt mansion, a historic structure thatwas also once used as a stagecoach stop. The park includes twodistinct halves; the western section includes the mansion and itsvarious outbuildings, a shale beach, vegetated dunes, naturalwoodland areas, and other beach related facilities. The easternmostsection includes wide open, level lawn areas that is primarily usedfor soccer throughout the summer and fall months. Although theapproach and grounds are still characteristic of an estate property,parking, maintenance and storage facilities crowd the mansion anddiminish its potential ambience. The park with its heritage aspectsand waterfront setting, has the potential to be a regional draw but isin need of restoration. The park was selected as one of the detaileddesign components of the Master Plan. Given Wendt’s large size,lake access, recreational potential and its proximity to Evangola StatePark, it is recommended that the State of New York become a partnerwith the County in the future development and enhancement ofthis park. Refer to Volume 2, Section 3.0 for the Specific Park MasterPlan and recommendations.

45. BENNETT BEACHErie County

Bennett Beach is 47.5-acre county-owned waterfront park on LakeErie in the Town of Evans. Located at the mouth of Big Sister Creek,the park includes a fine sand beach (one of the last remaining naturalsand beaches on the eastern end of Lake Erie) and a backshorepicnic area, with natural dune and creek environments. Howeverfacilities are limited and aging, and do not serve the beach area well.The site offers tremendous potential as the County’s premier passive,beach-oriented park (similar to Woodlawn Beach State Park). Thepark was selected as one of the detailed design components of theMaster Plan. Given Bennett Beach’s lake access, natural sand beachand dunes, and its proximity to both Wendt Beach and EvangolaState Park, it is recommended that the State of New York become apartner with the County in the future development and enhancement


of this unique waterfront park. Refer to Volume 2, Section 3.0 forthe Specific Park Master Plan and recommendations.

46. EVANS TOWN PARKTown of Evans

Evans Town Park is an 11.0-acre town-owned developed park locatedon Lake Erie. This multi-purpose park offers many diverse forms ofrecreation, including swimming and beach activities, tennis, volleyball,basketball, baseball, rolloer hockey, horseshoes, picnicking andplaygrounds. These activities are supported by a comfort station.

47. LAKE ERIE BEACHTown of Evans

Lake Erie Beach Park is 5.3 acre town-owned and developed park inthe Town of Evans. Redevelopment of Lake Erie Beach representsthe Town’s foremost priority for revitalizing its waterfront. Facilitiesinclude a guarded beach, play areas, picnicking and fishing access. Aprevious waterfront plan recommended improvements to the beach,support facilities, and parking to promote revitalization of commercialsites along Lakeshore Road. A pedestrian bridge over Muddy Creekwas constructed, to allow public access to approximately 5.0-acresof shoreline. The project includes a picnic area, lighting, landscapingand other associated site improvements.

TOWN OF BRANT

48. EVANGOLA STATE PARKNew York State

Evangola State Park is 733-acre state-owned park located in theTowns of Brant and Evans. Its main attraction is its beautiful shorelineand natural sand beach, lined with low shale cliffs, located on LakeErie. The park offers a guarded beach for safe swimming, naturetrails, picnic facilities, baseball and soccer fields, tennis and basketballcourts and 80 campsites. Snowmobiling, hunting and cross-countryskiing are also offered.


5.4 POLICY DIRECTION

5.4.1 WATERFRONT PLANNING

The waterfront strategy for the Erie County parks should build onthe goals and recommendations provided in previous waterfrontplans for the Erie County Waterfront. Due to changes in theeconomic picture over the last ten years, specific components relatingto market demand and economic projections need to be updated.Notwithstanding this, the principles and underlying framework for acomprehensive and linked system of waterfront activity centers arestill viable.

Although major work still needs to be undertaken on key projectssuch as the Outer Harbor and the Erie Canal Harbor (Buffalo InnerHarbor area), progress is being made and a number of significantprojects, by all levels of government, have been undertaken alongLake Erie, the Niagara River, and the Erie Canal. These individualprojects continue to build toward an overall waterfront recreationalsystem. Efforts toward a linked system of waterfront recreationsites and amenities needs to be coordinated within a planningstrategy that promotes sound decisions in land use planning,transportation and environmental management.

5.4.2 MANAGEMENT OF THEWATERFRONT RECREATIONSYSTEM

The waterfront County Parks and their inter-linking recreationaltrails and greenways are key destinations within the overall waterfrontplan, which also includes state and local parks and landholdings. In1999 the County agreed to take over management of three City ofBuffalo waterfront parks: Broderick Park, Ontario Street Boat Launch,and Tow Path Park. Although small in scale, these sites nonethelesscontribute as ‘windows on the water’ or as part of the linear Riverwalktrail system contribute to the overall waterfront greenway system.Broderick Park is also significant for its historic role in the UndergroundRailroad (site of the Underground Railroad Freedom Memorial). TheCounty has also partnered with the New York State Department ofEnvironmental Conservation on several sites along the Buffalo River


that were targeted for environmental clean-up and/or demonstrationprojects.

New projects aimed at revitalizing the waterfront and adjacentneighborhoods, such as the Erie Canal Harbor Project, the BuffaloOuter Harbor Trail, and the Buffalo-Fort Erie Waterfront Gatewayhave recently been initiated, with Erie County financial involvement.As waterfront revitalization efforts continue, the County canincreasingly expect to be asked to partner in other similarundertakings, and has demonstrated its commitment in the pastthrough financial contributions on a number of projects that generatematched funds from State programs.

While funding has been made available for capital development inthe past by the County and the State, a corresponding increase hasnot been seen in operational funding at the County level. The Countyhas further taken on responsibilities for parks that were previouslymaintained by the City of Buffalo. Given the current climate oflimited resources, and the higher costs associated with themanagement of the waterfront sites, it may not be possible for theCounty to continue to increase its waterfront landholdings in asignificant way, unless a corresponding increase in operational fundsis provided. Redevelopment of Wendt Beach and Bennett Beachalone, assuming that development costs can be secured, will generatea significant increased demand on County operational andmanagement resources, and the balance of the parks within theCounty system are equally needy. There is an expectation, and anacceptance by the public, that the New York State Parks, e.g.Woodlawn Beach State Park and Evangola Beach, are based on anominal user pay system. However, there is a correspondingexpectation that the facilities provided at the State parks are of aquality that warrants a fee payment. The County waterfront parksdo not currently charge for admission; however neither are the facilitiesup to the standards provided at the State parks.

Within the emerging waterfront parks and greenway system that isunderway, there is a potential pattern of ownership/management ofthe waterfront sites emerging. The Outer Harbor Project is expectedto include a State-run park component that will build on the existingnetwork of State parks on the Niagara River/Lake Erie shoreline. Asrecently as January 2003, New York State has announced its intention


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to manage Gallagher Beach and the Small Boat Harbor as newState Park facilities. The addition of this parkland in close proximityto the significant natural environment area of the Tifft Nature Reserve(which is currently managed by the Buffalo Museum of Science),suggests that these lands should all be considered as an integratedState park. It is conceivable that Wendt Beach and Bennett Beachmight also fit with this state system, either as official State Parks, asa shared partnership between the State and County, or redevelopedand managed similar to the State run system.

Conversely, the smaller waterfront sites that contribute to the overallwatrefront greenway trail system, or as public access points, may bemore suited to management by local governments. Notwithstandingthe City of Buffalo’s difficulties in the past, and the transfer ofmanagement of several of its waterfront sites to the County, futureCounty decisions concerning new waterfront land acquisitions, orthe assumption of management, should ensure adherence to themission and mandate of the Erie County parks system. Withdiscussions over the assumption of the Olmsted Parks (which closelyfits with the County’s role), the County may wish to revisit themanagement of the smaller waterfront sites and the linear parksalong Buffalo’s waterfront with the City, or consider increasingoperations and maintenance budgets to ensure a high qualitystandard of management.

5.5 WATERFRONT PARK SYSTEMIMPROVEMENTS

The following are general recommendations that apply to the Countywaterfront landholdings. Specific park by park recommendationsfor key waterfront sites can be found in Volume 2, Section 3.0,Specific Park Master Plans.

5.5.1 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

The Niagara River has been designated the First Globally SignificantImportant Bird Area (IBA) in the region (as identified by the NationalAudubon Society, US partners in the global IBA program). Significanthabitat sites, or “stopovers” already exist on Grand Island (Buckhorn

Wendt Mansion

Bennett Beach Park


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Island State Park) and at the Tifft Nature Preserve. Other regionalsites under consideration for development, (Times Beach, BuffaloOuter Harbor lands, Cherry Farm Park, etc.) also provide significantopportunities for the incorporation of naturalized, habitat areas thatsupport the IBA.

Several of the County waterfront parks: the Buffalo River Parks,Wendt Beach, and Bennett Beach, include natural environment areasthat contribute to the system. Towpath Park included naturalizationmeasures in the original master plan which were never implemented.These sites and other County waterfront parks and open space areascould also provide some contributions to the IBA. The County shouldincorporate an underlying ecological framework for its waterfrontpark system, and the development of wildlife areas and specializedwaterfowl and migratory bird habitat enhancement areas should beconsidered in the development/redevelopment of new waterfrontsites. For existing small parks and open space areas, this may belimited to the encouragement of meadow and regeneration areasthrough reduced mowing in specific locations. For larger sites, thedesign should incorporate measures that target specific habitat types,such as wetland or forest habitat.

5.5.2 ACCESS AND LINKAGES

The existing network of waterfront parks, particularly through Buffalo,is not easily accessed from the main streets and lacks a cohesivesystem of directional signage. In conjunction with the establishmentof a new County Park logo, and the development of a comprehensivefamily of signs, special waterfront directional signs should bedeveloped and located along major roads and throughoutneighborhoods to cue visitors and ‘remind’ residents that thewaterfront (Lake or River) is nearby, and to offer wayfinding tohighlighted waterfront destinations.

The Riverwalk system has improved public accessibility to the waterand provides an almost continuous corridor. The Riverwalk is nowalmost 25 years old and, when built, traversed behind numerousactive businesses with little relationship to the water’s edge. However,land uses have changed in some areas of the trail, providingopportunities for the County to revisit the trail alignment andpotentially improve the aesthetics of the overall trail setting and

Recommendation 5.1 – Build on the planningpolicies set out in previous waterfront plans.Update the policies to be consistent with theCounty’s Park’s current Mission Statement.Recognize that an accessible and connectedwaterfront, linked to a regional greenways systemis a powerful marketing and tourism opportunity.

Recommendation 5.2 – The County should assumea leading role in working with the state and localgovernments toward the protection of the Lake Erieand Niagara River waterfront environment, andthe preservation of public open space, throughconsistent and appropriate land use planning,urban design and development controls thataddress environmental conservation, ecologicalenhancement, public access, and water-basedrecreation.

Recommendation 5.3 – The County shouldcontinue to work with the state and localgovernments to implement recommendations forwaterfront revitalization contained in the HorizonsPlan and other waterfront strategies, including suchprojects as the Buffalo Inner Harbor, the BuffaloOuter Harbor, completion of the Canalway Trailsystem, the Buffalo-Fort Erie InternationalGateway, and other projects as they arise.

Recommendation 5.4 - In contemplatingacquisitions of new County waterfront sites, orassumption of management of existing sites, theCounty should consider the role and function of thewaterfront park designations (Destination Parks,Windows on the Water, and Linkages). The landsshould contribute towards an overall strategy thatbuilds economic renewal of the waterfrontcommunities, promotes waterfront recreation andprotects significant environmental and heritageresources.

Recommendation 5.5 – The County should enterinto discussions with the waterfront partners –State, County, Buffalo Museum of Science, City ofBuffalo, Local governments - to develop a cohesive


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experience, with respect to aesthetic fencing, buffers, and shadedrest areas.

There is a growing interest by the public in low intensity, water andnature based recreation, and a number of the County’s river andcanalfront parks are well situated to support this. The waterfrontpark system should be examined for additional opportunities toprovide additional fishing access points and ‘soft’ canoe / kayaklaunch sites that are accessed and serviced by existing facilities(parking, washrooms, trails).

5.6 CONCLUSIONS

Given its role within the overall planning of the region, the Countyneeds to assume a leading role in working with other levels ofgovernment to ensure that waterfront development is undertakenin a comprehensive and unified manner. The waterfront strategyshould build on past waterfront planning efforts, and work towardsthe underlying principles of economic renewal, public accessibility,recreation enhancement and environmental conservation.

It would appear that there is a role to be played for all levels ofgovernment, Local, County, and State, both in planning andimplementing the waterfront recreation system as well as in managingand maintaining the existing parks and the ones to follow. Capitalinvestment that is not followed by adequate maintenance is moneywasted, and will not achieve the vision of a premier waterfront parksystem. Therefore, it will be important for all stakeholders to rationalizethe roles and responsibilities not only for purchase and capitaldevelopment, but for the ongoing management of the various sites,to be in keeping with their mandate for the provision of recreation.

The County should continue to encourage the State to assume aprominent role in the management of significant sites that are inkeeping with the overall State Park system and open spaceconservation objectives. This includes a recommended future Staterole at such sites as Times Beach Nature Preserve, Tifft NaturePreserve and extended Outer Harbor/waterfront trail system area(as an extension of the current Gallagher Beach and Small BoatHarbor State Park proposals), and may extend in the future to Wendt

Towpath Park

Bennett Beach Park

Wendt Mansion


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Beach and Bennett Beach. Alternately, from a “dollars and cents”level of thought, as redevelopment of Wendt and Bennett Beachestake place the County may wish to consider a user-pay system similarto that in place in the New York State Parks to ensure that adequatefuture funds are available to manage and operate these vitalwaterfront sites to the highest quality.

The County-owned and/or managed waterfront park system alreadyrepresents a significant part of the County park operational costs.The ability of any planned waterfront revitalization to generatetourism potential and economic renewal for the region will besubstantially based on the quality of the recreational experience forprospective residents and visitors. This will require a high standardof park development, accompanied by a high standard of managementand maintenance. Many of the existing County-owned parks are inneed of redevelopment or upgrading. The County has also assumedmanagement of several smaller, and fairly recently developed parksfrom the City of Buffalo, which are also in need of restoration andimproved maintenance efforts.Future County decisions concerning new waterfront land acquisitions,or the assumption of management of existing parks and open spaceareas, should therefore consider the mission and mandate of theErie County Parks System, and should ensure the provision ofadequate funds to manage and operate them to a high standard.

Specific recommendations for parks improvements are provided inVolume 2. However, as a general note it is recommended that visualand physical connections within the existing waterfront park andtrail system be improved, through:

· Wayfinding signs with consistent waterfront image orlogo– along Riverwalk trail corridor, on mainthroughfares at intersections with connecting roadsleading to waterfront access points, along scenic ruralroutes in rural areas (in tandem with the SeawayTrail signage).

· Improvements to physical trail connections - roadcrossings, trail corridors, (shade, fencing, views to lake,rest areas), revisiting trail routing where land useshave changed;

· Improved fishing access and opportunities for canoe/kayak launching, employing “soft” launches ratherthan paved ramps.

system of ownership and management for the LakeErie/Niagara River waterfront park system thatreflects the mandate of each level of government,and ensures a system of high quality, wellmanaged and financially sustainable parks

Recommendation 5.6 - Waterfront parksredevelopment and upgrading, should beundertaken with a view to establishing anecological framework throughout the system thatsupports the significant migratory bird corridor(Important Bird Area) along the Lake Erie andNiagara River corridors. With the assistance ofnaturalist organizations, the County should identifyspecific opportunities within new and existingparks to be implemented as part of a managementstrategy or at the time of redevelopment.

Recommendation 5.7 – Review the existingRiverwalk trail route alignments with waterfrontlandowners to ensure maximum connectivity , inlight of land use changes.

Recommendation 5.8 – Develop a waterfrontsignage and wayfinding system that identifies allwaterfront access points, and promotes a unifiedwaterfront image.

Recommendation 5.9 – Investigate opportunitieswithin the County waterfront parks for improvingfishing access and providing soft launches forcanoeing and kayaking. .

5.1 COUNTY’S ROLE ON THE WATERFRONT...Volume 1 / Park System Master Plan / 5.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY...

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Transcript of 5.1 COUNTY’S ROLE ON THE WATERFRONT...Volume 1 / Park System Master Plan / 5.0 WATERFRONT STRATEGY...