The Erie County Legislature has unveiled half a million dollars in funding to build a new structure in the city of Buffalo.
The money will fund construction of an archway at the corner of Bailey Avenue and Winspear Avenue. The double-sided archway will have an inscription that reads "Welcome to the University District" etched into it.
That may be just the start. Buffalo city officials said more work will be done to make that community inviting and beautiful.
"There is going to be a lot of funding going to Bailey Avenue and we want to do our part to ensure that it's not only their streets and sidewalks done, but we have proper lighting, we have nice garbage cans, we make it an area that people want to visit," said Taisha St. Jean Tard, a member of the Erie County Legislature.
“Today, we celebrate the full funding of the Bailey Avenue Archway Project," said Acting Mayor Chris Scanlon. "This is more than just an infrastructure improvement, it is a symbol of the bright future ahead for this neighborhood. This project reflects the power of collaboration with all levels of government."
In addition to the archway, the project will also include:
- Light pole upgrades along the area
- Shrubbery and flowering pots along Bailey Avenue
- Concrete bollards for improved safety
- Trailblazers light pole banners
- Historical markers to highlight the area's rich history
- Iron trash cans along Main Street, East Delavan and Bailey Avenue
The City of Buffalo will soon begin the bidding process for the construction work. City officials say the timeline for construction will be shared once the bidding process is complete.
