Stinson Properties held a news conference Tuesday morning in front of The Buffalo Central Terminal. Owner, Harry Stinson expressed his shock and disappointment with the Central Terminal Restoration Corporation. The committee is taking a step back from the Canadian developers. CTRC is not renewing it’s developer agreement or continuing negotiations with Stinson about selling the historic building.
Stinson wants to turn the terminal into a film studio and mixed used space. Initially restarting Amtrak services to the building was part of the plan.
About two weeks ago the city and state decided on building a new train station(Amtrak) on Canalside near Downtown Buffalo.
Stinson Developers wants to buy the property. They believe it would become more marketable to vendors if they purchase it. According to CTRC, that’s no longer going to happen. It’s still unclear why the CTRC is cutting ties with the Canadian developers.
The corporation responded late Monday to Stinson's latest appeal.
"We sincerely appreciate Mr. Stinson's passion for the project, and we remain excited about getting the results of the Urban Land Institute study. The insights from the ULI study will help us determine the next steps for this historic property so that any redevelopment plans are in lockstep with the best interests of the neighborhood and the city of Buffalo," CTRC's John Jiloty said in an email statement.
In a report, Stinson Properties claims the conditions of the old central terminal is “very concerning and demands that something be done soon.” Being the building up to code is expected to cost millions.
ASAP Architect Firm has proposed to the Central Terminal to turn the terminal into a one of a kind art and culture complex with a small hotel. ASAP Founder, Adam Sokol says something unique has to go inside this building in order for it to thrive. He believes it’s going to take a lot of public money to even get any project moving.
