City of Buffalo eyes state funds to expedite Statler project [Video]

Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) – Some state funding may be on the way to help speed up the process of the Statler Hotel rehabilitation project.

The Buffalo Common Council on Wednesday approved submission of a state grant application that could cover parts of the cost to fix the Statler.

“We prepared an application to be submitted to Empire State Development Corporation for $3.5 million for repairs to the Statler,” said Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown with WBEN on Thursday. “The money will do foundation repair work, the vaults under the sidewalk would be repaired, there will be sidewalk repair work, and that work is essential before other work to renovate the property.”

In addition, there will restoration of parking to accommodate hotel guests, residents and users of the event space.

The city will seek funding through the Restore NY Communities Initiative Round 8. The Statler Project itself is expected to have an estimated cost of $160 …