Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - "I am very confident in this project," said James Morrell, Chair of the Central Terminal Restoration Corporation, as the next phase of a massive restoration begins on the nearly 100-year-old East Side landmark.
Morrell, who joined WBEN on Friday, explained some of the work included in Phase II of the project, which is supported by $33 million in state funding.
"This will allow access into the passenger concourse, which will be able to hold events for about a thousand people. This is significant. A generational investment," Morrell said.
One focus of the project will be on the Guastavino wall and ceiling tiles throughout the concourse.
"We want to make sure that they're stable and don't fall on anyone's head. We painstakingly went through and tapped and tested every tile to check their stability. They will be removed, fixed and reattached, where needed," Morrell detailed.
Morrell said there are hundreds of thousands of tiles on the walls and ceiling of the structure. He believes it's one of the most tiled buildings in North America.
Additionally, the project will include asbestos removal, remodeling bathrooms, updating lighting, and a new prep kitchen and storage area in the restaurant.
Morrell says the ultimate vision for the Central Terminal is to be an economic hub.
"It will offer arts and entertainment, a place for the community; eventually some housing, office space and possibly light manufacturing," he said.
Phase II is estimated to be a two-year project out of a 10-year master plan.
The project is personal for Morrell.
"I grew up not far from here down Paderewski Drive, so to be able to come full circle and be part of this historic moment is really important to me," he noted.
The Central Terminal has been sitting idle for 45 years. The last train left the Central Terminal in 1979.
