"This will be a reconstruction of the entire stretch of Allen Street in several phases," said Mayor Byron Brown. "We are very pleased to have the support of Allen Street area residents and businesses who have been part of an extensive visioning process to plan this reconstruction."
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Buffalo's Acting Commissioner of Public Works, Michael Finn, provided more details into what exactly has been and will be going on.
"The first phase of the project kicked-off in March with installation of a new 24-inch water main beginning at the Main Street end and progressing toward Delaware Avenue," said Finn. "Sewer replacement is expected to start shortly and will similarly be installed from Main to Delaware. When the sewer and water work is completed, the full street reconstruction will follow."
Congressman Brian Higgins was able to secure $3 million in federal funding for this phase, and he says the project will greatly benefit the area.
"In the shadows of the University at Buffalo Medical school, you will see new private sector investment in an along Allen Street with this investment of public dollars," said Higgins.
Along with the $3 million that has been allocated from the Federal Highway Authority, $2.7 million in funding is coming from the City of Buffalo, and Empire State Development is contributing $600,000 to the project.
Brown echoed Higgins' sentiments, saying the famous Buffalo corridor was in need of infrastructure replacement and a facelift.
"With this reconstruction, the street will certainly be more attractive and more efficient for vehicles, for pedestrians, for bicycles and for visitors to the Allentown area," said Brown.
The first phase is expected to be completed in 2020.
Brown noted that funding for the second phase has been secured, and that will complete construction on Allen Street West to Wadsworth Street.