Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Buffalo Pro Soccer has announced its plans to construct a 7,600-seat, privately-funded stadium near the Buffalo River in the city's Valley neighborhood. Located at Elk and Lee Street.
Buffalo Pro Soccer's new stadium adds to the excitement surrounding the United Soccer League (USL), the largest and fastest-growing professional soccer organization in the country.
Peter Marlette Jr., president of Buffalo Pro Soccer, says that this is a very special day for pro soccer and the city. He also adds that he is confident that soccer's global outreach, can bring the game to the city of Buffalo successfully.
"As we'll see right here in our backyard, for the World Cup 2026 soccer is a global game, and buffalo is increasingly a global city. But yes, we are building the home of Men's and Women's Professional Soccer here in our city and region. But we are also building a community asset, which will host countless additional events, lacrosse, rugby, concerts, festivals and many other local outdoor events."
Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon says that this achievement is a testament to Buffalo's sports culture.
"I'm very bullish on Buffalo, very optimistic about our future. And a privately funded stadium of this magnitude is a major vote of confidence in Buffalo's future. It's an investment in our economy, in our community and our sports culture. This stadium is going to create jobs, drive economic activity and energize this growing neighborhood here in the valley."
Brian Higgins, CEO of Shea's performing arts center, was in attendance as well and adds that this new addition to the entertainment district has overcome all odds.
"Everything we've done here, from this project to the waterfront, is overcoming all of the industrial contamination that occurred here. We had to clean it up. We had to redevelop it, and in doing so, we are redefining Buffalo, and this is a great tribute to the continuation of that effort and everybody's contributions to making this day possible."
