BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — There's shattered glass, boarded up windows and spray-painted messages all throughout the City of Buffalo after Saturday's protest. Woven in the destruction is some Buffalo Strong spirit as the community comes together to make repairs.
"I've always said Buffalo will be good to you if you're good to it. We just want to give back and take care of our city. We love it here," said Mike Ruben, who picked up debris near Grant Street.
THREAD: Cleanup has started in Niagara Square this morning. I’ll be sharing photos and videos as it continues. @WKBW pic.twitter.com/kmbOqWPSve
— Taylor Epps (@taylor_epps_) May 31, 2020
Many local businesses were hit, including Sabores De Mi Tierra on Niagara Street. The owner fears he will have to pay out of pocket for repairs. Elmwood Avenue businesses also saw significant damage, including Elmwood Discount Liquor and Wine, Blue Mountain Coffees, the 7 Eleven, Bank of America and more.
Niagara Square in Downtown Buffalo saw grafitti and damage as well. Volunteers and members of Buffalo in Bloom woke up early to clean the area up.
"It's so sad, it really is. I don't think people realize how much time and effort is put into all these spaces, it's a public space, we've had our tragedies, we'll make do," said Linda Garwol, Chairperson for Buffalo in Bloom.
After hours of work, Niagara Square is mostly back to normal.
Most of the cleanup crews around the city are good neighbors who just want to help the community.
"It's a scary time for everyone, but there is some light at the end of the tunnel and it's people getting together to try to take care of the city and if we can help out, we will do our best," said Ruben.
