Buffalo, NY (WBEN) Developer Douglas Jemal says there's no "master plan" but he wants to do renovations at Statler City right. It's part of his vision to make downtown a community for everybody.
Jemal anticipates hundreds of apartments to be ready within the next 12-15 months. He said they're still doing a lot of behind the scenes work on things like asbestos.
"The Statler Towers will soon be a building that breathes life into the downtown again. Buffalo is fortunate that Mark Croce had the vision to save this beautiful building for future generations. This building cannot be recreated today and our renovations have unveiled the beautiful design of the building that has been hidden over the years. Douglas Development's work is respecting the history of this building, while securing the building's future," says Jemal as he gave reporters and Mayor Byron Brown a tour.
"The progress Douglas Development has made on the Statler Towers in such a short time is incredible. The Douglas Development team continues to inspire with its creativity and deep commitment to the City of Buffalo," Mayor Brown said. "By creating another nearly 100,000 square feet of usable space, Douglas Development is increasing the number of tenants and visitors the Statler can accommodate, which in turn will increase the activity in Niagara Square, and around the Convention Center."
"I'm proud to be the caretaker here. It's a jewel that should be preserved for years to come," says Jemal. Brown announced that the City has transferred $3.3 million, remaining from a $5.3 million Empire State Development grant which was provided to Croce, to Douglas Development.
Croce used $2 million of the grant for the initial stabilization and renovation of the building. Douglas Development can now access the remaining $3.3 million for its planned $150+ million in planned restorations and renovations.
