The project involves the design, development and construction of a fully integrated 650,000 sq. ft. development made up of the following:

2-story hockey arena                             115,000 sq. ft.

Full service hotel                                    144,000 sq. ft.

Five level parking garage                     371,000 sq. ft.

Retail and Restaurant                              20,000 sq. ft.

In 2012 the City of Buffalo sent a request for proposal for the redevelopment of the Webster Block and the HARBORcenter were eventually named as the preferred developer.  The property, which has been accepted into the Brownfield Cleanup Program, is within an area of dense commercial and industrial development.  The site's previous uses included oil storage, oil refining, machine shop and brass foundry.  The BCP encourages the voluntary cleanup of contaminated properties so they can be reused and redeveloped.

Overview of the Webster Block Project:

Hockey Complex

The hockey complex (115,000 sq. ft.) as currently envisioned will be built on the 6th and 7th floors of the new building and will consist of  two NHL sized ice sheets,  2000 +/- spectator seats, eight locker rooms, administrative and maintenance areas, concession, restrooms and a large concourse.

Parking Area

A five level parking structure will service not only the building but will supplement parking shortages in surrounding area.

Retail and Restaurant

The project will feature retail and restaurant space on the first level with a Main Street entrance. 

Hotel

A 200-room, full service, hotel affiliated with the Marriott brand is expected to be operational in April, 2015.  It is anticipated that the hotel would be connected via skywalk with the First Niagara Center. 

2001                        BURA transfers property to City of Buffalo.

4/2/2012                 City issues RFP for Webster Block Development.

2012                        Buffalo Sabres group chosen as preferred developer.

11/15/2012             ESD adopts a Negative Declaration in accordance with SEQRA.

2/15/2013 Public hearing conducted.  Transcript on file at ECIDA

2/19/2013 Lease/Leaseback Inducement Resolution presented to Board of Directors.