Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA) alongside elected officials cut the ribbon on Tuesday unveiling the new Canalside Metro Rail Station (formerly Erie Canal Harbor Station), marking the completion of one of many stations that will soon be modernized.
"It had been 40 years since the system had been put in place and the aging infrastructure was left without any capital funding. And as there was work being done downstate, we stood up collectively and said our community deserves the same sort of attention that they're getting downstate, and we got it. $100 million over five years. You're seeing the fruits of that investment here today as we open up the Canalside Station," said Congressman Tim Kennedy.
The new station boasts numerous features aimed at improving passenger convenience and comfort, including advanced ticketing systems, real-time transit information displays, and increased accessibility for all riders.
"It feels like it's where it belongs. It's Canalside, that's the intent," notes Tom George, VP of Operation for the NFTA.
"We're really looking to create placemaking with all of our stations. You'll see as we develop stations up the line, each one will have its own identity. And so when a rider comes along, they'll feel like they know where they are. When you come here, you'll look out and you know you're at Canalside. I'm really thrilled about the development of this and how it came out."
Both Congressman Kennedy and George note there are many more projects in the works as the NFTA continues to update their old equipment, track and stations.
"We're pleased to announce that we'll be breaking ground on the Church Street Station this summer for new construction there, that will be completed over the next two years. We are also pleased to announce that we will be moving forward with design on the Lafayette Station," said George.
"New catenary work, new rail lines, new escalators, upgrades and revitalized stations all along the Metro Rail corridor, the new DL&W station that's going to come online in the very near future, that's going to give our community an incredibly impressive and brand new way to travel here to Canalside, to the events at the arena and to all of the areas including the Cobblestone district, along the water's edge. This is really a team effort and I'm proud to have played a role in in my efforts as chair of the Transportation Committee in the [New York State] Senate," said Congressman Kennedy.
The $100 million in funding allocated in 2019 through the state has now been exhausted by the NFTA. In addition to their state budget funding allocation of $84.8 million, they will be getting more state funding, $26 million this year from a new $130 million five-year capital plan. This new investment will aid in track and tunnel repairs as well as update the old stations.
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