Statler owner didn’t have permission to display Josh Allen banner

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Douglas Development, the owner of the Statler, lacked the necessary permission to display the large Josh Allen banner unveiled last weekend in downtown Buffalo.

The city confirmed that the Allen banner can be displayed on the Statler building because it’s not considered a permanent fixture.

However, the city’s permit commissioner told WIVB News 4 that developer Douglas Jemal did not technically have permission to display the large advertisement because the zoning board is currently in recess and couldn’t issue a permit yet.

Despite this, the temporary installation has been planned for over a month and will remain in place for the time being. Fans have been impressed by the oversized display.

“It’s kind of staring into the city’s soul, you know,” said one Bills Mafia member.

A black and white photograph of Allen, the Buffalo Bills’ quarterback, was installed this past weekend and now overlooks the heart of the Queen City.

Throughout the day on Monday, Bills Mafia members paused for a moment during their walks to look up and snap selfies with the backdrop of Allen’s Gatorade’s revived “Is It In You?” advertising campaign.

“City should feel good about it and the neighborhood and all the people here,” said Fredonia resident Nathan Teneyck. “Buffalo’s always done a pretty good job of celebrating the Bills and supporting them, so it’s just kind of topping that.”

The banner follows the commercial called “Hello Coach,” which showcased Allen’s resilience as he reached out to numerous college programs seeking a chance to join their teams.

Downtown workers say that his story inspires them every day.

“I park right underneath that sign. I believe it’s going to give me inspiration to come back to work every single day now,” said Buffalo resident Dan Richer. “Yeah, he’s a great looking guy and go Bills.”

This isn’t the first time Allen has been highlighted in Buffalo.

Recently, a mural emerged on Niagara Street and his iconic Superman pose was transformed into a sign at the intersection of Clark and Kent Streets. Additionally, artist Eric Jones has produced numerous works throughout the region.

“There’s dozens of people coming to Niagara Square now to take photos and to just really immerse themselves in the downtown area,” Richer said. “So, I’m all for it. I think it’s great for the community.”

Residents contacted News 4 to inquire whether the Allen banner complied with city code.

Buffalo Common Councilman Mitch Nowakowski stated that the property owner, Douglas Development, is coordinating with the Department of Permits and Inspections to obtain the necessary permit.

Department Commissioner Cathy Amdur said that the banner, discussed in late August, does not require the Preservation Board’s approval because it’s a temporary sign and doesn’t affect the exterior of the historic Statler.

An official permit for the banner is necessary and will be addressed at an October board meeting.

“We do have a historic district here full of memory and full of a lot of history obviously,” Richer said. “But I think it adds a new age and a new feel for downtown.”

Dillon Morello is a reporter from Pittsburgh who has been part of the News 4 team since September of 2023. See more of his work here and follow him on Twitter.