Major waterfront project clears hurdle

A project that aims to transform an eyesore on Buffalo's Outer Harbor into the city's newest success story has cleared a major legal hurdle.

State Supreme Court Justice Donna Siwek has upheld regulatory approvals granted by the city of Buffalo in May to the Queen City Landing project. The ruling means work can continue at the site of the former Freezer Queen building on Furhmann Boulevard.

The decision is also a major setback for environmentalists, who are trying to stop demolition at the brownfield site. Demolition is expected to take place within the next few weeks.

Queen City Landing will feature a 23-story tower that will be home to 200 apartments with waterfront views. The tower will also feature restaurants, an attached parking garage, and paths for biking and walking along the water.

"Queen City Landing is emblematic of the new Buffalo and of where this city and this community is going," said developer Gary Buchheit. "We are thrilled to be the group who are going to give the Outer Harbor the investment, energy and attention it has long deserved."