Rooted in a previous investment initiative to boost economic activity and create jobs, the New York State-endorsed this project for revitalizing Buffalo’s East Side unlocked funding for housing, entrepreneurship, infrastructure, and the preservation of historical and natural assets. By mid-2021, dozens of projects were identified to transform the East Side, focusing on four main economic corridors and nine investment areas with high potential impact.
The University at Buffalo Regional Institute and the Center for Regional Strategies played crucial roles in planning and managing funding streams for this initiative. The project’s goal is to improve economic conditions on Buffalo’s East Side by supporting local organizations and preparing them for future investments. Engaging over 250 residents, six investment goals were developed, emphasizing mixed-use, walkable commercial corridors, historical and natural asset investment, workforce connections, and new business growth.
Key revitalization opportunities include Broadway Market, Central Terminal, Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor, and parts of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks System. The cross-sector collaboration has enabled innovative funding approaches for comprehensive local initiatives, positioning East Side Avenues as a model for building wealth in historically marginalized communities.