MAYOR MASIELLO, DOWNTOWN STAKEHOLDERS SUPPORT DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT
May 18, 1999
Contact: Peter K. Cutler (716) 851-5841
 

BUFFALO (5/18/99) - Responding to misleading characterizations of the Downtown Buffalo business climate, Mayor Anthony M. Masiello and downtown stakeholders, including business leaders, entertainment industry leaders and restaurateurs, gathered today to counter the negative assertions.

"We are on the cusp of revitalizing and reinvigorating Downtown Buffalo," stated Mayor Masiello. "Standing here in the Theatre District we bear witness to the excitement of the reopened Shea's Performing Arts Center, the Irish Classical Theatre, related restaurant openings and expansions. In addition, we are studying the Main Street traffic issues to possibly reopen Main Street to vehicular traffic, which will help reconnect our entire downtown cityscape."

With the arrival of Information Technology companies to downtown, the commitment of retail businesses such as Taylor's and the impending waterfront development activities, many downtown stakeholders envision a bright future for the region.

"The public should recognize that vacancy rates have lowered in downtown due

to businesses taking advantage of New York State Zone benefits," stated Alan Delisle,

President of the Buffalo Economic Renaissance Corporation. "What is particularly

significant are the technology firms, such as Reciprocal and EdgeNet, who

are redefining downtown's business future. These firms, who are led by young and

energetic business leaders, recognize the cost effective benefit of conducting business in

downtown Buffalo; they want to be in downtown and we will make every effort to

support that decision."

The Mayor noted the recent announcement of Adelphia Communications, who will team up with the Cordish Company of Baltimore, MD, has committed itself to the city's redevelopment initiatives.