Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Buffalo Common Council officially approved on Tuesday the renaming of Broderick Park, located at 3 Bird Island Pier and 92 West Ferry Street, to "Freedom Park".
This decision came after extensive discussions and a public hearing on Oct. 24, 2023, reflecting the collective wishes of the Friends of Broderick Park, the Broderick Family, and the citizens of Buffalo.
Broderick Park, informally known as the “Foot of Ferry,” holds immense historical significance as a National Park Service-designated Network to Freedom site. For over 120 years, it served as a vital stop on the Underground Railroad, with the Black Rock Ferry facilitating Freedom Seekers' journey from the United States to Canada.
Back in September, the Broderick family gave its blessing to the Friends of Broderick Park to go forward with its initiative with the City of Buffalo to rename the park, given its historical significance with the Underground Railroad.
"This renaming signifies a significant step towards honoring the Park’s legacy as a beacon of freedom," said Buffalo Common Council Majority Leader David Rivera in a statement on Tuesday. "We acknowledge the importance of preserving history and are committed to recognizing the sacrifices made by those who sought freedom through this route."
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As part of the renaming of the park, the Common Council assures a meaningful remembrance for Michael Broderick, the former namesake of the park. The Broderick family will be actively involved in this decision, ensuring that the legacy of Michael Broderick is respectfully commemorated.
"Once again, I am grateful to the Broderick family for recognizing the historical significance of this park and supporting its change in name to reflect that significance. However, we do not want to forget about the impact that Michael Broderick had on this community, and we seek to continue to honor his legacy," Rivera added. "I pledge to work with the Broderick family to honor Michael Broderick in this very same park so that we all may remember the monumental influence this one individual had on his community."
The resolution passed by the Common Council includes the following key points:
Formally Renaming the Park: Broderick Park is officially renamed "Freedom Park," effective immediately.
Updating Signage and Records: The Department of Public Works will update all park signage, and relevant agencies will update their records and directories to reflect the park's renaming.
Official Notifications: The City Clerk will send a copy of this resolution to various departments, including the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, Erie County Department of Real Property Tax Services, City Planning Board, Department of Assessment and Taxation, Division of Engineering of the Department of Public Works, and the main branch of the United States Post Office in Buffalo, N.Y.