The Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy along with other neighborhood organizations are pleading with New York State Department of Transportation to reconsider its redesign plans for the 198.
Stephanie Crockatt with Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy said the state's proposed plans fall short. They're not bike and pedestrian friendly enough, and still cut off access to museums and the zoo.
"We got so much investment from the Darwin Martin House all the way over to H.H. Richardson. I mean if you think of the money that's being sunked just along this corridor deserves that respect of attention as well," Crockatt said.
Jill Jedlicka with Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper is concerned how the state's design, which will cost $100 million, could also impact the nearby Scajaquada Creek.
"For us to truly restore the granger of the creek and the creek system for the benefit of this communities and the institutions, we need to take a hard look at some of the areas farther down stream," Jedlicka said.
Joseph Morrissey with NYSDOT released this statement:
"The Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Scajaquada Corridor project is the culmination of years of hard work and community discussion focused on creating a roadway that considers all users, enhances safety and better fits with the character of historic Delaware Park. The Buffalo Community has significantly shaped the project. In fact, the newest proposal includes two new design elements specifically requested by community stakeholders. We continue to work with Federal Highway Administration in reviewing public comments on the project and look forward to sharing an update in the near future."
According to NYSDOT website the project could get underway this winter and the redesigned 198 could be ready for traffic by fall 2018.
