Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Additional plans are in the works to transform the Buffalo Central Terminal into an asset for the East Buffalo community.
The Central Terminal Restoration Corporation (CTRC) announced plans on Wednesday to transform the old mail and baggage building, as well as the adjacent the post office buildings at the Buffalo Central Terminal.
The project will start with some pre-development work, which includes an analysis of the buildings, materials and the environment. Afterwards, they will transform the buildings into 90-to-110 affordable and attainable housing units, as well as additional possible uses such as workforce development, training, and light industrial manufacturing.
The development team for the project is pushing forward to break ground as early as 2027, with development completed and ready for reuse in 2029.
"The Central Terminal has always been an integral part of Buffalo’s culture and history," said Ben Upshaw, co-founder and managing partner of CB Emmanuel Realty. "The reuse of historic properties like the Central Terminal offers the unique opportunity to mix innovation and preservation to build a flexible, sustainable future. Together, we’re building a vibrant cultural and economic hub for a vital community."
The reuse of the Buffalo Central Terminal, in alignment with the community-driven Master Plan, is expected to bring life to a new future for the historic East Buffalo landmark as a vibrant, mixed-use campus that fosters opportunity for the community.
While construction is ongoing, CTRC is continuing to reinforce the Central’s Terminal’s role as a welcoming space and a symbol of positive momentum on Buffalo’s East Side.
"We’re continuing to work with the community to build the Central Terminal’s next era of connection," said James Morrell, Chair of the CTRC’s Board of Directors. "Every step we take toward bringing the Buffalo Central Terminal back to life honors our past and shapes a more vibrant future for the East Side and all of Buffalo."