Governor Cuomo announced yesterday that the New York Power Authority (NYPA) has contributed $145,000 towards the upgrading of a Greenbelt Public Pathway extension that helps to link the Outer Harbor bike trail to the Fuhrmann Boulevard bike trail. The dedicated funds were earmarked for the installation of a new fence along the water’s edge, the relocation of boulders, and the 12-foot wide multi-use path with millings. Bike racks and trash receptacles will be added at a later date.
“From Times Beach and the Buffalo Lighthouse to Tifft Nature Preserve, Wilkeson Pointe and Buffalo Harbor State Park, we have invested in parks and public spaces for visitors to take in the natural surroundings up and down the water’s edge,” said Congressman Brian Higgins, who fought to secure the federal NYPA relicensing settlement which funded the Greenbelt Public Pathway. “This trail provides new access and connections to make exploring the Outer Harbor easier and enjoyable for the growing number of people coming to visit.”
“Governor Cuomo has worked with elected officials and community leaders to transform the Buffalo Outer Harbor into a first-class recreation destination,” New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Matthew J. Driscoll said. “Western New Yorkers have miles of continuous pathways and trails, boardwalks, pavilions, piers and fishing docks to enjoy, providing great opportunities for walking or biking along the beautiful waterfront.”
Mayor Byron Brown said, “The Outer Harbor is one of our city’s greatest assets and the extension of the trail, coinciding with the nearly completed $11.3 million makeover along Ohio Street, benefits residents and visitors by providing a natural playground for boaters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts. The new trail is another visible sign of the continued progress taking place in Buffalo’s Ohio Street neighborhood as we continue to improve and expand opportunities along the waterfront, creating jobs and spurring new investment.”
Assemblyman Sean Ryan said, “Connectivity and public access to the water are what will drive future development of Buffalo’s waterfront. I am thrilled to be joining the NYSDOT and ECHDC for today’s event to announce a new multi-use trail which will further improve the connections along Buffalo’s outer harbor. With the addition of these new paths and bike racks, Buffalo’s reputation as a bike-friendly city continues to grow. Exploring our waterfront is easier than ever, thanks to investments like this one, and our new Queen City Bike Ferry, which is moving pedestrians and bicyclists throughout the inner and outer harbors.”