BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Community members and city leaders are working together to transform a historic East Buffalo neighborhood with a major infrastructure investment that residents have been requesting for years.
A $32.5 million streetscape project will soon begin along Jefferson Avenue, a corridor that has long served as the heart of Buffalo's Black community. The project will be completed in two phases, with construction on the first phase beginning this summer.
"For generations, Jefferson has been a hub of Black enterprise, faith and community," said Councilmember Leah Halton-Pope, Majority Leader and Ellicott District representative. "This $32.5 million streetscape project is not just about improving infrastructure, it's about improving value."
I spoke with city officials who explained that the investment aims to improve road conditions, pedestrian access, bike safety and the overall appearance of the historic corridor.
Acting Mayor Christopher Scanlon announced the project less than two weeks before the Democratic primary for mayor.
"When we talk about infrastructure, we talk about investing in neighborhoods. When we invest in commercial corridors like Jefferson Avenue, we are investing in our small businesses, our quality of life and the pride we have here in the East Side," Scanlon said.
Phase 1 will include new asphalt, curbs, sidewalks and street lighting between Main and Best Streets. The improvements will also feature bicycle infrastructure upgrades and new benches and trash receptacles.
Phase 2 will extend from Best Street to Swan Street and will mirror the work done in the first phase. Planning for the second phase is set to begin this fall.
The project is being funded through federal, state and local resources via the Transportation Improvement Program.
Local business owners expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming changes.
"One of the promises is getting ready to come true and that's this streetscape. We got to build it one block at a time. Jefferson Avenue used to be a thriving community. We want to bring it back so that it is thriving again," said Larry Stitts, Golden Cup Coffee Company President.
City leaders acknowledged the importance of community input in shaping the project, thanking residents and business owners for sharing their vision for the Jefferson corridor.
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