Central Terminal Building Gets Special Designation
WIVB-TV Buffalo, NY, November 20, 2003
The long-neglected Central Terminal building in Buffalo is getting its due. News 4's Lorey Schultz reports, the building has been given a special designation that will help give the building a special place in Buffalo's history.
The Central Terminal is one of the greatest art deco train stations in the country, tucked within the heart of Buffalo's east side.
In its heyday, it was a focal point of a once thriving city. Today, even after nearly a quarter century of neglect, it's still rich with memories.
Friend of the Terminal Russell Pawlak said, "Up until a certain age, some of the momentous times in people's lives are tied to this building."
Thursday, Friends of the Terminal and elected leaders gathered inside the main concourse for a special announcement.
The Preservation League of New York State selected the terminal as one of this year's seven most endangered properties, meaning its worthy of special attention to secure its future.
Russell Pawlak said, "It may not bring us anything directly, but it gives us the acknowledgement and recognition by a greater body that will allow us to do a lot of small things for funding purposes activites it's a recognition of who and what we are."
This is the first time an historic building in Erie County has received this special designation.
A building in Niagara Falls did a few years ago, and you should see it now.
Preservation League member Tania Werbizky said, "One of our happiest success stories is a sight up in Niagara Falls. We placed the former high school on list a number of years ago. We followed up with small grant and now that building is fully occupied by artists and theater is in use and it's contributing to the local economy."
Friends of the Terminal are hoping for similar results, so the terminal can
stand as a beacon of hope and inspiration for this struggling area.