Community Name & Location:
North Tonawanda and Tonawanda, New York, Niagara Region/Western Frontier, Niagara County
Challenge:
There was a need to stimulate waterfront revitalization and economic development, following closure of major regional industries such as International Paper and Tonawanda Iron & Steel.
Vision:
The two communities want to capitalize on the tourism and recreational potential of their Niagara River and Erie Canal waterfront areas.
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Waterfront redevelopment emphasizing boater and pedestrian amenities. |
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LWRPs approved in 1987 and 1988. Major completed projects include construction of the Western Gateway Harbor by the NYS Canal Corporation: one of eight such harbors in the state canal system; remediation of the 53-acre Gratwick-Riverside Park; and installation of a 5,000 foot trail and boat launch. 16 acres of the park were devoted to plantings to attract birds. Harbor improvements included re-sloping of banks, construction of waterfront promenade, construction of amphitheater. Other improvements include new docks, interpretive markers, and a harbor master’s station. |
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Future projects include construction of “Gateway Point” in North Tonawanda. With the goal of increasing tourism, a 10,000 sq. ft. marine museum, 18,000 sq.ft. of retail space, parking, and additional boat slips will be constructed. The project will also include a miniature, “one of a kind,” operational rotary steam railroad, a visitors’ center, a toy boat harbor, restaurant and commercial center. |
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Need to implement projects persistently, proceeding one step at a time, and keeping the shared vision for a reinvigorated waterfront (as articulated in the LWRP document) in mind.
How/why is this a success?
Success has depended on continued community involvement and the participation of business leaders. Indicators of success include completion of numerous waterfront improvements, increased commercial/retail activity, renewed civic involvement, and an influx of tourism during boating season.
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Erie County, NYS DOS, NYS Canal Corporation, City of Tonawanda, City of North Tonawanda, Erie & Niagara Counties, volunteers
Mid 1980's - present.
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Alice Roth / Mary Kabasakalian
Tonawanda / North Tonawanda, NY (716) 695-8645 / (716) 695-8540
Kevin Millington
NYS Department of State, Division of Coastal Resources
41 State Street
Albany, NY 12231-0001
(518) 473-2479
kmilling@dos.ny.gov
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Governor Cuomo Announces 
Local Waterfront 
