Baskin Announces Investment of $3.2 Million in Jefferson Avenue Development Projects
Hon. April N. M. Baskin
Erie County Legislature Chairwoman April Baskin and three organizations announced a total of $3.2 million she was able to secure to fund three separate development projects on Jefferson Ave. Representatives from the Buffalo Urban League, T.O.P. Enterprises, Inc and CB Emmanuel Realty, and Kanaka Development were on hand with Chairwoman Baskin to announce three separate projects happening on Jefferson Avenue in East Buffalo.
This follows recent efforts by the County to reinvest in neighborhoods in the City of Buffalo that have been left behind during our region’s economic renaissance. In January, the Erie County Legislature passed a law, sponsored by Chairwoman Baskin, that made affordable housing a County purpose. That allows the County to fund affordable housing projects in the county.
“Over the last several decades, we have seen a disinvestment in communities across East Buffalo. Jefferson Ave was once a booming economic district in our city, and because of intentional disinvestment over many years, it has been left in despair,” said Erie County Chairwoman April N.M. Baskin. “The tragedy of May 14th underscores how important it is to invest in East Buffalo, and these developers are doing just that.”
The funding will go to the following projects:
$1million to Buffalo Urban League for construction of their new headquarters.
$1.2million to T.O.P. Enterprises, Inc for their mix use building providing affordable housing options, event and gallery space, commercial space, as well as entrepreneurial opportunities for local residents.
$1million to Kanaka Development for a new space to better provide the area with healthcare such as a pharmacy, wellness center, primary care physician office and behavioral center.
“TOP Enterprises and CB Emmanuel Realty are proud to partner together on the Gateway Village project. Legislator Baskin has helped the project secure its first source of capital financing,” said Ben Upshaw, CB Emmanuel Realty Managing Partner. “Our organizations know that these funds will be a catalyst in attracting other capital needed to start and complete this exciting project. The Gateway Village Project will aid the community and contribute to the revitalization of Jefferson Avenue by providing affordable housing options, event and gallery space, commercial space, as well as entrepreneurial opportunities for local residents. We are incredibly thankful for the support of Chair Baskin.”
“The Buffalo Urban League is grateful to Chairwoman April Baskin and the Erie County Legislature for their support of the construction of the Urban League Empowerment Campus on Buffalo’s East Side,” said Thomas Beauford, Buffalo Urban League President and CEO. “This development will bring over 100 employees, critical programs, services, and economic opportunities directly to the local community.”