BUFFALO | City Tower | 600ft | 41 fl | App

[Fishnat22]

40-story office-hotel structure also would be most expensive

By SHARON LINSTEDT
News Staff Reporter
10/25/2006


Sketch by Cannon Design shows proposed building, which, at 600 feet, would be Buffalo's tallest.

The British developer who recently bought the faded Statler Towers wants to construct what would be Buffalo's tallest, most expensive building.
Bashar Issa, of Manchester, England, confirmed Tuesday he wants to build a 40-story, 1.2-million-square-foot skyscraper at the corner of South Elmwood Avenue and West Mohawk Street, one block north of City Hall.

At 600 feet tall, the $361 million, ultra-contemporary glass and steel office, hotel and condo tower would eclipse the HSBC Center in height by 33 feet and would rank among the tallest buildings between New York City and Chicago.

"It will give new hope to Buffalo. It will be a symbol of rebirth for those who live and work here and to those outside the region that this is a city on the rise," Issa said.

The developer, who has just embarked on an $80 million makeover of the historic Statler building, said he's not banking on any public funds for the most expensive building ever proposed for Buffalo.

"We plan to privately finance it. I believe projects should work without public money, and if it comes, that's a bonus," Issa said.

While Buffalo has a long history of dramatic development projects that have never seen the light of day, those connected with Issa's proposal say he has the resources to get the building constructed.

The building, designed by Grand Island-based Cannon Design, would include 500,000 square feet of office space spread over 20 floors, topped by a 10-story, 300-room luxury hotel. The top 10 floors would house about 80 condominiums priced at $500,000 and up. The tower also incorporates interior parking space for more than 800 vehicles.

Cannon's Harry L. Warren, the project's lead architect, said he drew his inspiration for the translucent tower from winter scenes at Niagara Falls.

"It's evocative of a frozen waterfall. It's crystalline and faceted," Warren said. "Because you'll be able to see through it, it will be light and airy, touching lightly on the landscape."

Another unusual design feature is metal lattice work that will cover three sides of the glass facade, working to deflect glare both outside and inside the building.

"It is rather like a bride's veil. You can see her face, but you also see the diaphanous screen. It's very intriguing," Warren said.

The decidedly contemporary design received positive reviews from a group of local architects who were briefed on the project earlier this week. John Laping, of Kideney Architects, who also serves as chairman of the Buffalo Preservation Board, said Buffalo is the perfect location for the distinctive structure.

"We didn't have anything like the Guaranty Building when it was built. The Darwin Martin house design was a one-of-kind," Laping said. "Those are architectural icons we've learned to love. I don't know why we can't love a beautiful glass tower, too."

The new building, to be located on what is now a surface parking lot, would be built to the rear of the new federal courthouse. That planned 10-story, semi-elliptical building also relies heavily on glass and light in its modernistic design.

At $361 million, the mixed-use tower surpasses the price tag of all other downtown buildings. By comparison, the HSBC Center, built in 1972, sold last year for $85 million and currently is back on the market at $121 million.

Cannon, whose portfolio has buildings across Western New York and around the world, was thrilled to take on Issa's challenge to design a signature skyscraper for downtown Buffalo.

"This is very special for us, professionally and personally. Not only is it the tallest building we've ever done, it's for our own community," Warren said.

Issa said he hopes to start construction by the end of 2008, with the first tenants in place in 2010.

"The starting time will depend on how long it takes to get through the design process and preleasing. We'd like to have it at least 40 percent leased when we begin," he said.

Cannon has signaled interest in moving its headquarters from Grand Island to the new building, which would bring about 200workers downtown.

George Hamberger, from RealtyUSA, who is representing Issa in his Buffalo projects, said he will be focusing on luring businesses from New York and Toronto to build a tenant base for the signature building.

"I see it as a carrot to bring some new blood to the market. For so long we were robbing from Peter to pay Paul to fill space downtown, but we're now attracting new businesses, and this will aid that cause," Hamberger said.

Mayor Byron W. Brown also sees the proposed tower as a symbol of changing economic times for the city.

"Over the past year, we've seen tremendous investment citywide, and particularly in downtown. These types of proposals reinforce the value and benefit of investing in Buffalo," Brown said, calling the design "bold and exciting."

Issa's project also has captured the interest of competing Buffalo developers, like Amherst's Uniland Development Co., with two nearby projects. "It's encouraging to see out-of-town interest in a project that would further the progress already under way in building a vital downtown core," said Uniland's Michael Montante.

http://img125.imageshack.us/img125/4376/02fg0.jpg

http://img95.imageshack.us/img95/8032/04tw8.jpg

http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/7918/issatowercutgm1.jpg

http://img274.imageshack.us/img274/103/01jh3.jpg

http://img243.imageshack.us/img243/6026/issa100gs8.jpg

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/3039/05sw6.jpg

http://img415.imageshack.us/img415/130/issatowerskylinebg5.jpg

The Skyline renderings are not originally by Cannon, it's just a rough render. too wide etc.

Proposed to the City, land is in Issa's possession..only time will tell.

Read more at: http://builtbuffalo.com/forums/index.php?action=post;msg=1500;topic=264.0;sesc=7166029cf9faa2ed28de879889119d28

[Dimension]

All right, some more info:

*Bashar Issa bought the tower site in May for an even $1 million.

*Construction can begin next summer or anytime in 2009. My peoples say its around 20% sold, 20% away from his 40% goal in order to start construction.

*Main anchor tenant is being negotiated.

Heres a video which is from www.buffalorising.com
http://www.brightcove.tv/title.jsp?title=1113826316

[SheistbugzzNY]

how tall is that building all the way on the left??

[Fishnat22]

The HSBC on the right is 567 i think

[Dimension]

529ft or 161 meters.

Buffalo City Tower is approved. The heading is incorrect.

Can a mod change it to approved?

[Fishnat22]

heading is fixed, thanks for the update!

[Dimension]

Some non-related development.

13 story Waterfront Place is under construction. U/C

23 story Gates Circle is said to be more than 30% sold. Approved

Issa has been looking at the Central Terminal also.

[romanamerican]

buffalo really needs a project like this one, it would help its economy, that really isn't that great at the moment. If one starts, usually if it goes well, others follow...

[Fishnat22]

buffalo really needs a project like this one, it would help its economy, that really isn't that great at the moment. If one starts, usually if it goes well, others follow...

Buffalo is experiencing some bigtime development downtown, a project like this really can embody that.

[Jerome]

529ft or 161 meters.

Buffalo City Tower is approved. The heading is incorrect.

Can a mod change it to approved?

569 feet on the lower Main Street side and 529 feet on the upper Main Street side. It is built into a dip in the terrain that is why you often see some sources list the height as 529 and others as 569 feet

[ECoastTransplant]

569 feet on the lower Main Street side and 529 feet on the upper Main Street side. It is built into a dip in the terrain that is why you often see some sources list the height as 529 and others as 569 feet

Umm....that parking lot is pretty flat- definitely not a 40' dip. :ohno:

http://img474.imageshack.us/img474/4181/dsc0191zi2.jpg

[homestar]

I'm guessing Jerome was referring to the HSBC Tower on Main.

I'm glad to hear Issa's tower already has 20% pre-leased! Hopefully an anchor tenant will easily fill the rest.

[gothicform]

this issa guy has been trying to build a tower in manchester -
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=256915&page=30

you can read about it there. yes his building company really did dig down to the electric mains. "regional electricity company supply of electricity on site as numerous circuits were found unearthed and combined neutral earth conductors were used to supply electrical equipment."

[Fishnat22]

wow looks great cant wait to see it being prepeed what are the nimbys saying about this?

suprisingly nothing. from what ive heard, everyone agrees this benefits the whole city. issa will also have the statler that he purchased, essentially down the street. it's also going to help take out some of the holes the streetscape buffalo has. the dense parts of downtown are really stunning, patching all of the whole makes a great feel

[Jerome]

Umm....that parking lot is pretty flat- definitely not a 40' dip. :ohno:

http://img474.imageshack.us/img474/4181/dsc0191zi2.jpg You are ignorant. The FACT is the lower Main St side of One HSBC Center to the top is 567 feet. The upper Main street side to the top is 529 feet. Notice how far the trolley drops as it goes under the building. Or simply look at the building from HSBC Arena and you can see the difference. It's all in the lay of the land. I am referring to the building not a parking lot.

[ECoastTransplant]

I'm guessing Jerome was referring to the HSBC Tower on Main.

I'm glad to hear Issa's tower already has 20% pre-leased! Hopefully an anchor tenant will easily fill the rest.

Ahh! I thought we was trying to explain why there was confusion over the height of City Tower. :hammer:

Jerome calling someone ignorant.... :lol:

[Taylorhoge]

wow looks great cant wait to see it being prepeed what are the nimbys saying about this?

[RON-E]

i think this would be agreat addition to the skyline. it need to be updated.

[Dimension]

Okay, I'm not saying that it is 20% pre-leased, I'm saying that people that I know have been giving me numbers are 20% is the average number.

[Dimension]

wow looks great cant wait to see it being prepeed what are the nimbys saying about this?

They haven't said anything probably because he is renovating the Statler and might buy The Central Terminal Building.

[wiki]

great news for buffalo, that height will be nice for that miniskyline.

[cwilson758]

this will provide a great balance for the skyline. I like this town and how it is designed. Good news!

[Jerome]

Okay, I'm not saying that it is 20% pre-leased, I'm saying that people that I know have been giving me numbers are 20% is the average number.

It's my understanding that the Seneca Gaming Corporation is negotiating to take a big chunk of space in th Issa Tower for their corporate HQ. Completely non-sovereign like their golf course in Lewiston, They are talking about enough space for about 500 workers.:)

[Dimension]

whats that, like 5-10 floors?

[Gendo]

Looks like a nice addition that is really needed in that skyline.

[Fishnat22]

It's my understanding that the Seneca Gaming Corporation is negotiating to take a big chunk of space in th Issa Tower for their corporate HQ. Completely non-sovereign like their golf course in Lewiston, They are talking about enough space for about 500 workers.:)

If this is true, as much as I oppose their downtown casino..space is space and i want this bad boy to start to rise

[Jerome]

If this is true, as much as I oppose their downtown casino..space is space and i want this bad boy to start to rise
If you notice you will see that their recently released updated Casino plans no longer include the gaming Corp HQ's. My friend did not say how much space they were looking at but enough to hold 'up to' 500 would seem to be pretty significant. I am really starting to believe in this project.

[Fishnat22]

If you notice you will see that their recently released updated Casino plans no longer include the gaming Corp HQ's. My friend did not say how much space they were looking at but enough to hold 'up to' 500 would seem to be pretty significant. I am really starting to believe in this project.

Ugh has anyone seen those renders? sickening. Hopefully businesses looking to locate downtown may have an interest in his tower.

[Dimension]

the other day, there were some trucks over at the site. Probably for the Dulski or courthouse. You never know though.

[Fishnat22]

the dulski is just about to get started, and the federal courthouse is now in full swing, so thats probably what they're for. as for the tower, its been pretty hush hush around town, which is probably for the better

[Dimension]

I think Hilton is going to be the hotel. It seems the right place. I can see it now, "The Hilton at Buffalo City Tower."

[Jerome]

I understand the one of the City's largest law firms is also interested in moving there as they have had nothing but hassles in getting their own offices rehabbed.

[Dimension]

I hope it isn't Cellino and Barnes.

[Fishnat22]

Don't really care who it is..just built it

[Jerome]

I hope it isn't Cellino and Barnes.

Much bigger!

[Dasein]

The only law firm I can think of that fits your criteria is Hodgson Russ, but I cannot see them abandoning the renovation of the Guaranty Building. Perhaps you are thinking of a different firm - if so, who?

[Dimension]

Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC?

Harris Beach PLLC?

They are large, so I have been told.

[Sabretooth]

I would guess Hodgson Russ (Buffalo's largest, ~400 emp., #184 in the US), but I would think they're pretty entrenched with their investment in the Guaranty Building. Not to mention being fairly well completed.

I'll stomach Paul William Beltz if they demolish that ugly little travesty of a shoebox stuck between the Guaranty and Verizon buildings. I hesitate to say it (be careful what you wish for), but a surface lot would be more attractive.

Also among the biggies are Damon & Morey (sp?), and Phillips Lytle (~320 emp., #242 in the US).

[Fishnat22]

Much bigger!

You have any citeable info Jerome? or just through the grapevine kinda deal

[Jerome]

I would guess Hodgson Russ (Buffalo's largest, ~400 emp., #184 in the US)
That's the one I have heard, they are hoping to sell the Guaranty for a profit and make a move. They are not too thrilled with the ownership responsibilities plus they are having trouble configuring the space to fit all of their workers in the building efficiently. Their dispute with the Federal Government hasn't helped the situation either.

[Taylorhoge]

Didnt Forest City Ratner have a project happened in the 80s?

[Dimension]

That's the one I have heard, they are hoping to sell the Guaranty for a profit and make a move. They are not too thrilled with the ownership responsibilities plus they are having trouble configuring the space to fit all of their workers in the building efficiently. Their dispute with the Federal Government hasn't helped the situation either.

There is no way they will abandon that project. Years of restoration, the money spent, it makes no sense to me.

[Spaulding97]

That's the one I have heard, they are hoping to sell the Guaranty for a profit and make a move. They are not too thrilled with the ownership responsibilities plus they are having trouble configuring the space to fit all of their workers in the building efficiently. Their dispute with the Federal Government hasn't helped the situation either.

Rumour has it that the unknown building of the unknown company will be sold to Issa and fixed up into a mix use in order for them to move in to city tower. The old switch r' roo.

[Dimension]

Most likely would happen then. I mean, you are basically paying the money for transitioning from the old office in to the new. The rest would be, or mostly be covered by the switch r'oo

[Fishnat22]

Makes perfect sense to me. They could probably make a little return on their investment, not to mention market themselves in a shiny new tower that everyone's got their eyes on.

[Jerome]

Plus they are a very civic minded group and perhaps realize what a boost the Issa Tower would be to the collective Buffalo psyche. After all that was one of their stated reasons for buying the Guaranty in the first place. Also, I have heard that their growth will make the Guaranty too small to put all of their employees under one roof which is something that they highly desire.

[Sabretooth]

They are on a bit of a hiring spree from what I've seen. They actually offered my girlfriend a job there but she declined it on account of signing a 3 year contract and not being able to see it beforehand... Yeah, some people in Buffalo actually decline jobs. :D

[Dimension]

Any news? Hotel space should go quickly now that 200 Deleware has its hotel chain in place.

[Jerome]

Any news? Hotel space should go quickly now that 200 Deleware has its hotel chain in place.
33% pre leased counting the hotel

[Dimension]

wow, that jumped real fast. They got their anchor tenant? Or is it still in negotiation?

[Jerome]

see below

[Jerome]

I think the Hotel plus the original announcement that Cannon Design was taking space in the building give them the 33% - it was today's Buffalo News. From what I have heard they have had abolutely no luck in trying to interest Toronto or NYC companies to lease space in the building. I have been told that some of the rebuffs were borderline rude.

[Ebola]

I really like it because, just like with the Freedom Tower u/c here, you can see the massive steel beams in the base and the color is great too.

It must be the tallest in NY outside of NYC! I love it a whole lot.

This rendering wasn't posted:

http://i22.tinypic.com/v5g0pf.jpg

[MDguy]

It will surpass the Erastus Corning tower in albany by 3 meters, so it will be tallest outside of NYC in NYS! :)

anyway, great to see baffalo getting a new tallest :cheers:

[Second City]

I love the contrast of the old and the modern in the skyline.

[Fishnat22]

Bashar will be coming to Buffalo in a few weeks, and it is then I plan to sit down and talk with him about his projects, I'll provide some information soon

[Dimension]

:banana:5% till construction!!! Next summer you will see groundbreaking I tell ya Buffalo folks:banana:

[Fishnat22]

have they reached 35% for sure?

[Dimension]

I have been told that have officially reached 5%.

Also, on SSP, the chart changed from 2009 to 2008, so that could be more evidence.

^^This all could be a lie that I was told, but, I don't think so.

[Jerome]

I have been told that have officially reached 5%.

Did you mean 5% or 35%?

[Dimension]

35%

[Spaulding97]

Is it 40% to start construction?

[Fishnat22]

yeah he said 40% till construction. i think this might happen.

[Sabretooth]

Technically speaking, we already have 450' on Albany due to ground elevation. :D

Actually, that would put us into NYC's league (and Chicago would be king). Yeah, right.

[Jerome]

FWIW

Gibraltar’s Investor Mission Statement

Gibraltar is committed to achieving $2 billion in annual sales, with net income of $120 million, by 2009, or sooner. To reach this goal, we seek to generate top- and bottom-line growth that averages 20 percent per year.

These goals can be reached by staying true to our vision of:

Becoming a true leader in all of our businesses, with the largest or second-largest market share in each of our operations. We’ll focus on businesses that add the most value and margin, and differentiate us from our competition.
Serving a diverse group of customers and markets to reduce our exposure to any single industry or customer, while focusing our activities on high-growth markets.
Creating the best team in each of our businesses, by fostering an environment where every member of the Gibraltar Team can do his or her best work – and be recognized and rewarded for his or her contributions.

[Dimension]

No longer will be tallest outside of NYC in NYS, Syracuse and their fugly tower will take the name with there 640ft, if it gets built. (I don't think it will).

Would Issa add a spire to the top?

[MDguy]

No longer will be tallest outside of NYC in NYS, Syracuse and their fugly tower will take the name with there 640ft, if it gets built. (I don't think it will).

Would Issa add a spire to the top?

:puke:

http://www.syracuse.com/flags/332/biz_071108_destinyhotel.jpg

[Sabretooth]

Holy ___!

I've never seen a rendering of that thing and now I'm wishing I never did. What is that supposed to be, a giant collection of leaves? For Syracuse's sake, I'm hoping the design is revisited.

[Dimension]

Part of a 1.3 million sqf carousel mall expansion. Its a 1,300 room hotel that will be covered by green solar panels.

Don't worry, it most likely wont get built. I don't think that Syracuse or anywhere upstate right now can handle 2.5 million sqf mall while having shops downtown and malls in the suburbs.

IMO, it would look better without those things at the top.

[Fishnat22]

It would look better if it was never built. Possibly one of the ugliest things I've ever seen. How can Syracuse's economy even support that?

[mbuildings]

stunning!

[Brummyboy92]

Wow that tower looks amazing.

[Dimension]

http://img125.imageshack.us/img125/4376/02fg0.jpg



I love that render.

Court House is U/C my dad told me today.

Anyone know what hotel is going in?

[Jerome]

Don't worry, it most likely wont get built. I don't think that Syracuse or anywhere upstate right now can handle 2.5 million sqf mall while having shops downtown and malls in the suburbs.

.:ohno:The Mall expansion part of the project HAS been under construction since March of this year. The original 1.5 million sq foot mall will indeed have in excess of 3 million sq feet once the expansion (currently under construction) is completed. Destiny is a REAL project and it is already happening.

[Spaulding97]

That Destiny rendering looks like it should belong in the Emerald City. I thought I saw Dorthy. Sorry Syracuse, the Wizard of Oz was on TV last night.

[Dimension]

:ohno:The Mall expansion part of the project HAS been under construction since March of this year. The original 1.5 million sq foot mall will indeed have in excess of 3 million sq feet once the expansion (currently under construction) is completed. Destiny is a REAL project and it is already happening.

O dear lord.

Issa better put a spire on the top of the tower then.

[Fishnat22]

I think a spire would look..terrible

[Dimension]

Wouldn't hurt to render one in though.

[Fishnat22]

anyone skilled enough to do it?

[Dimension]

Never mind, the top of the tower would have to be changed for the spire to look good.

[zerokarma]

Good for Buffalo, any type of large scale development is a good thing for them. Not really sure it fits into their skyline but its a start at least.

[Dimension]

Any new updates?

[Fishnat22]

It's been pretty quiet lately.

[Dimension]

That could mean a deal is in the making or its having a hard time getting more space sold.

hmm.... I'm honestly going to think that a deal is in the making.

[Jerome]

Here is a link to their leasing site:

http://www.loopnet.com/ProfileChooser.asp?LID=15054819&LL=True&STID=realtyusa&PopupView=True

[Spaulding97]

54% occupied and 600,000 SF only remains! Great news. I emailed to realtor to see what is still available as far as condos. If the 40% pre-lease is still the goal, then this should be ready to go... right?

[Jerome]

54% occupied and 600,000 SF only remains! Great news. I emailed to realtor to see what is still available as far as condos. If the 40% pre-lease is still the goal, then this should be ready to go... right?
Unfortunately Wrong - the 600,000 sq feet equals 100% of the leasable office space. the remaining 700,000 sq feet is for hotel and condo space. Thus 600,000 square feet available would mean that ZERO is actually leased. Of course it is possible that they are keeping the 600,000 figure on the web site even if some of it is tentatively leased. If needed I am sure that could change the mix of the building or add more floors. To me it's starting to look like this project is going to die on the vine.

[Dimension]

The website is messed up. How does 30-35% of leased go to 0%?

[Jerome]

The website is messed up. How does 30-35% of leased go to 0%?

When it is not really leased in the first place! Let's face it no one has ever officially come out and say that any of the building was really leased did they? If there was a real lease it is likely that the name of the company would be out there by now - after all Buffalo's a small town. It was known long before construction got under way that M&T was going to anchor the new Delaware Ave building completed this year. Same for the recently complete building on Elmwood and the Federal Government tenants.

The web site is part of the Realty USA commercial web site and says it was updated (verified) on 11/17/2007. Their business is leasing so I would think it is pretty accurate, my guess is that the project is nearly dead- plus, why else would Issa be floating the idea of an addition to the Statler?

I do know for a fact that they have given up on leasing to Toronto or NYC tenants after receiving several nearly rude rebukes!

[Dimension]

deleted

[Dimension]

They would have announced that it was canceled. On the website it says that 1/1/09 is when you can lease space that is physically there. So they are going to build it. Also, I don't think that city would just let the project die. It would most likely try to get people in to the project.

[Jerome]

Also, I don't think that city would just let the project die. It would most likely try to get people in to the project.

:ohno:Why would it? Why would Buffalo politicians try to help an outsider at the expense of their politically connected friends - it's just not how Buffalo's political class operates!

[Jerome]

They would have announced that it was canceled. .

I did not say it was cancelled yet, I said to me it appeared that signs were pointing in that direction.


On the website it says that 1/1/09 is when you can lease space that is physically there. So they are going to build it. .
Do you really think a 1.3 million sq foot building, with no blueprints, no contractor and no financing or building permits applied for, could be ready for tenants on 1/1/09?:nuts:

[Dimension]

^^Do you think that he might be building up suspense?

[travelluv]

See more by checking photos at
http://www.saudi-directory.net
:banana:

[Dimension]

^^SPAM

[Jerome]

^^Do you think that he might be building up suspense?

I doubt it! Seems to me his idea to add new space to the Statler is him coming back to earth and realizing what the limits are in the Buffalo market in 2007.

Perhaps in the future a 600 footer will work, but maybe the time just isn't ripe yet.

Look at the Dulski project - it was put up for sale, bought, a hotel signed up and concrete panels being removed - a real project.

Issa has had the Statler for a far longer time period and all we get are vague promises of a hotel and revamped elevators. He seems far more flash than substance.

I hope I am wrong, but I;ve seen too many Issa's over the last 30 years to take him too seriously.

[Dimension]

What I don't get is why he paid 1 mill. flat for the land in June or July. I think a 30 story building would look nice there if the tower doesn't work. Maybe build some middle class condos or something. I know that would sell very fast.

[Jerome]

Maybe he will put up a parking ramp for the Statler there, it would make sense, provided he does more than just fix the elevators.

[Spaulding97]

I hope he doesn't put a parking ramp there, how lame! At least shrink the the scale down to make it work, 30+ storey condo would work. Another wait and see

[Dasein]

Concerning the Statler renovations, there's a steady stream of dumpsters along W. Mohawk carting away stuff being removed from the building, so obviously something is going on inside. However, exterior renovations haven't started yet, which makes it seem like not much is going on with the project.

[Jerome]

Concerning the Statler renovations, there's a steady stream of dumpsters along W. Mohawk carting away stuff being removed from the building, so obviously something is going on inside. However, exterior renovations haven't started yet, which makes it seem like not much is going on with the project.
That's good, I hope he finally hired a local contractor - last I saw he was basically using local kids and day laborer's and not a real contracting firm - except for the elevator job.

[Spaulding97]

Concerning the Statler renovations, there's a steady stream of dumpsters along W. Mohawk carting away stuff being removed from the building, so obviously something is going on inside. However, exterior renovations haven't started yet, which makes it seem like not much is going on with the project.


What are they supposed to do on the exterior? I haven't heard anything about them changing it.

[Dasein]

What are they supposed to do on the exterior? I haven't heard anything about them changing it.

They are supposed to be replacing the windows, and there's also damage to the masonry that will need to be fixed.

[Spaulding97]

Gotcha, i was thinking drastic stuff.

[Dimension]

They are going to wait until summer because they need very nice weather to do the kind of work they are going to do to the masonry, like cleaning and filing in cracks and chips and all that. Thats why they only do stuff to city hall on the outside in summer.

[Fishnat22]

bump. any untold news on landing that hotel tenant?

[Dimension]

I think Hilton or I over heard on vacation here, a W Hotel(a stretch but possible).

[Ebola]

I'm still hoping that this one goes up; I like almost everything about it and it will be great for NYS.

[Dimension]

I'm still hoping that this one goes up; I like almost everything about it and it will be great for NYS.

How so? To show people that there is stuff going o outside Albany and NYC?

[Fishnat22]

How so? To show people that there is stuff going o outside Albany and NYC?

Sort of a new era for the city, in my eyes.

[Jerome]

Stick a fork in this one - it ain't gonna happen. Issa = all flash, no pan. Over a year and not one signed lease! He proposes project after project in Buffalo and the UK yet has completed almost none of them. Owned the Statler for over a year no new tenants and the only tangible work done was to fix a couple of elevators.

[Paul_Atreides]

Stick a fork in this one - it ain't gonna happen. Issa = all flash, no pan. Over a year and not one signed lease! He proposes project after project in Buffalo and the UK yet has completed almost none of them. Owned the Statler for over a year no new tenants and the only tangible work done was to fix a couple of elevators.

Yes I can see your point because everything in Buffalo has a reputation for happening sssooohhh ffffaaasssttt

Palladinos Court Street Office Building....we have been talking about for how long
Bass Pro....how many years....
Federal Courthouse...how many years....
Richardson and Burchfield Penny were talked about for how many years...

Skyway, Peace Bridge, Graystone, Convention Center, St Vincents Orphanage, Light Rail, High Speed Rail, Traffic on Main Street....yup your right everything happens so fast here that Issa is obviously deserving of our contempt

[Jerome]

I agree with you, this is one more project (in a depressingly long list) that ain't gonna happen. You forgot many others: the Corn Exchange Hotel, the indoor waterfront amusement park(e-zone I think it was called), the Elmwood Hotel, the new Convention Center in the Genesee street area, The Citicom Tower where Bernsteins Cigar Store stands, Adelphia Tower. Yup just add Issa to the ash heap of blowhards that propose things, have the Buffalo yokels puff up their ego's for a year or two then move on to real projects elsewhere once it becomes clear to everyone that their Buffalo project ain't gonna happen.

[i_am_hydrogen]

Such a pessimistic attitude. Haven't you ever heard the song: "Don't Stop Believing"?

[Jerome]

It would be different if this so-called developer had ever developed anything on the scale of his proposal, but he has not. After watching a revolving door of announced but never started projects in a City that had 610,000 people at the end of WW2 (the big one) but has less than 250,000 today, pessimism becomes realism. The last 20 storey plus building put up in Buffalo was completed in 1972. Although more than 30 have been proposed since that time.

[Dimension]

I think he is serious. I mean, if he knew the project wasn't going to get off the ground after a while, I think he would have stopped visiting Buffalo because of the Tower.

As for his other projects, I think 3 are U/C now. So there is a little hope.

[Jerome]

I think he is serious. I mean, if he knew the project wasn't going to get off the ground after a while, I think he would have stopped visiting Buffalo because of the Tower.

As for his other projects, I think 3 are U/C now. So there is a little hope.I think he visits Buffalo because he likes people fawning over him. He feels like a big fish in a little pond.

[Dimension]

maybe, but then again. He is making his North American debut in Buffalo. So if this fails, other cities will look down on him for picking Buffalo and then failing on getting his project done in Buffalo.

[Paul_Atreides]

Frankly I think all this toxic pessimism and doubt about the city tower is just futile....if he builds it then thats wonderful and if he doesnt its not like buffalo has never experienced a cancelled or delayed project.

I think it will get built...if only because Buffalo has a shortage of Class A office space of this calibre....infact....we have no office space of this calibre.

its kind of like what comes first the chicken or the egg. We cant lure certain companies here without Issas Tower and having this tower will put Buffalo on the radar in certain real estate circles. Even if Issas tower isnt a full financial success it will be a success for Buffalo.

And as far as the Statler...save your whining and complaining until the grand opening of the Federal Court Building, which is going to change the dynamic of that whole area.

The toxic pessimism that absolutely every development has to be proven like doubting thomas putting his fingers into the wounds of jesus. I gotta say that if I were a developer then I could care less about proving anything because my entire focus would be on controlling costs, maintaining the profit forecasts, keeping the work on schedule and attracting customers (and attracting customers doesnt necessarily have to be that public knowledge.

[Dimension]

maybe he is waiting till the 200th anniversary of Buffalo? Maybe symbolizing an era of change?

[Dimension]

tower is still on:cheer:

Construction date moved from 2009 to 2008 on skycraperpage.

BSC might put their Buffalo office in the tower when built.

[Paul_Atreides]

tower is still on:cheer:

Construction date moved from 2009 to 2008 on skycraperpage.

BSC might put their Buffalo office in the tower when built.

wonderful news, I always new it would get built and now Im thrilled that the date has been moved up to next year. Im guessing he is going to have alot of demand once the Federal Court Building is built.

Please add a few floors though and make it taller than Syracuse! We (Buffalo) deserve to have the tallest building in upstate.

oh and here is my message to the Larkin@Exchange, the city could use another building of the same size on the eastside....then when your done rebuild the Larkin Administration Building.

[TU 'cane]

wow, didn't expect Buffalo to have a project like this anytime soon.. really cool.

[StevenW]

Yes, this is good for Buffalo! :)
Hope construction starts asap! :)

[Paul_Atreides]

Mr Giggles reminds me...of just how much Boston and Buffalo have in common.....and his icon is another reminder of how similar the Buffalo City Center is to the most prominent skyscraper in Boston (John Hancock Center)

Of all the cities in the US I think Boston is really the city that Buffalo most needs to emulate

[Fishnat22]

I'm going to be sitting down with the guys at Harris Beach, who handle Issa's account, and hopefully discussing the tower with them. News soon

[Toronto10]

Good for Buffalo, any type of large scale development is a good thing for them. Not really sure it fits into their skyline but its a start at least.

Thats my sentiments. Love the new tower but it exposes the rest of the downtown. No disrespect but Buffalo might be better off imploding and starting from scratch. Upgrading is needed here, blow up those old buildings and start building new modern towers.

[Dimension]

Thats my sentiments. Love the new tower but it exposes the rest of the downtown. No disrespect but Buffalo might be better off imploding and starting from scratch. Upgrading is needed here, blow up those old buildings and start building new modern towers.

The old buildings are to architecturally unique that it would be an insult to the companies who built them.

They also give Buffalo its "charm"lol

There are many surface lots available though. Right now though, Buffalo's thing is rehabbing buildings and adding some new ones here and there.

[Fishnat22]

Thats my sentiments. Love the new tower but it exposes the rest of the downtown. No disrespect but Buffalo might be better off imploding and starting from scratch. Upgrading is needed here, blow up those old buildings and start building new modern towers.

Actually, I think the skyline would look great without the HSBC. Big building or not, it is just flat out ugly.

[Dasein]

Thats my sentiments. Love the new tower but it exposes the rest of the downtown. No disrespect but Buffalo might be better off imploding and starting from scratch. Upgrading is needed here, blow up those old buildings and start building new modern towers.

I find skylines with a mix of older styles and newer ones to look the best - New York and Chicago have this mix, and it makes them some of the best skylines in the world. Would we suggest that New York tear down the Chrysler Building or Empire State Building? Granted, there's some buildings Buffalo could do without, but our older high rises should be kept as they really enhance the skyline. i couldn't imagine Buffalo without the City Hall, for example.

[Paul_Atreides]

Actually, I think the skyline would look great without the HSBC. Big building or not, it is just flat out ugly.

I would have less of a problem with the HSBC building if it wasnt built directly over Main Street and blocking the waterfront from all the main street buildings.

[Fishnat22]

If you're driving downtown, facing it, it looks good. Main Street has a really nice set of streetwalls on some blocks. But facing the sides...it's disgusting

[Jerome]

The project is dead - just look for Issa to find an excuse to bow out and save face. He'll be gone by June. There are simply no tenants for the building.

http://buffalopundit.wnymedia.net/blogs/archives/6124

[Dimension]

He'll probably negotiate and if that fails, fire all them and find new workers.

[Spaulding97]

The project is dead - just look for Issa to find an excuse to bow out and save face. He'll be gone by June. There are simply no tenants for the building.

http://buffalopundit.wnymedia.net/blogs/archives/6124

Ok, Negative Nancy.:ohno:

[Jerome]

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Sorry here are the corrected links

http://buffalopundit.wnymedia.net/blogs/archives/6125

http://buffalopundit.wnymedia.net/blogs/archives/6124

[Dimension]

Not all workers are unionized or belong to that union.

[Jerome]

Close the thread this projects dead!

[i_am_hydrogen]

Close the thread this projects dead!

Why do you keep coming here and posting this over and over? We get it. You think the project's dead. If you don't have anything else to say, don't bother posting.

[Jerome]

Why do you keep coming here and posting this over and over?

Because it's a dead project my friend!:lol:

[Fishnat22]

I'm not going to ask this to be closed. Despite how right you may be Jerome, the fact is, until Issa says it's dead, it's not. I think we can all agree the unions had nothing to do with this, and Issa is most likely backing out. Until he does though, it's gotta stay.

[Spaulding97]

Why do you keep coming here and posting this over and over? We get it. You think the project's dead. If you don't have anything else to say, don't bother posting.

Thank you, please keep this up.

[Dimension]

So IF it is really dead, what will happen with the land?

[Jerome]

It's Buffalo - parking lot of course!!!

[zerokarma]

too bad it died

[Spaulding97]

too bad it died

It hasn't, pay no attention to the thing behind the curtain

[Jerome]

It hasn't,
Then who has he signed as a tenant? Why is Issa saying he can't build it in Buffalo because of non-construction Unions? Why have they stopped work on his other Buffalo project, the Statler?

Question: Which of his other projects that were supposedly in progress at the time he entered the Buffalo market almost two years ago has Issa COMPLETED?

Answer: NONE

It's done, let it go. There are a ton of REAL projects moving forward. Buffalo Federal Court House - under construction, 13 floor waterfront condo's under construction. 22 floor Buffalo casino/hotel - pre construction work started, additional land purchased just yesterday, Memorial Auditorium/Bass Pro project - contracts let for asbestos removal. 15 story Embasssy Suits conversion under construction.

Court Street 11 story office building - construction to begin as soon as law suit settled. 23 story Gates Circle condo project - to go as soon as lawsuit settled.

New proposals for high rise casino/hotel in excess of 30 floors to be released in February.

There are so many real projects to focus on. This obsession with the Kuwaiti Kumquat is so Mayberry it make me gag. The kid has never successfully completed a major project anywhere. His tower proposal would have cost more than his other proposals combined. He is a kid, in way over his head. But he sure loves the adulation the local yokels gave him.

[Spaulding97]

Then who has he signed as a tenant? Why is Issa saying he can't build it in Buffalo because of non-construction Unions? Why have they stopped work on his other Buffalo project, the Statler?

Question: Which of his other projects that were supposedly in progress at the time he entered the Buffalo market almost two years ago has Issa COMPLETED?

Answer: NONE

It's done, let it go. There are a ton of REAL projects moving forward. Buffalo Federal Court House - under construction, 13 floor waterfront condo's under construction. 22 floor Buffalo casino/hotel - pre construction work started, additional land purchased just yesterday, Memorial Auditorium/Bass Pro project - contracts let for asbestos removal. 15 story Embasssy Suits conversion under construction.

Court Street 11 story office building - construction to begin as soon as law suit settled. 23 story Gates Circle condo project - to go as soon as lawsuit settled.

New proposals for high rise casino/hotel in excess of 30 floors to be released in February.

There are so many real projects to focus on. This obsession with the Kuwaiti Kumquat is so Mayberry it make me gag. The kid has never successfully completed a major project anywhere. His tower proposal would have cost more than his other proposals combined. He is a kid, in way over his head. But he sure loves the adulation the local yokels gave him.

:fart:

[Dimension]

New proposals for high rise casino/hotel in excess of 30 floors to be released in February.

There are so many real projects to focus on. This obsession with the Kuwaiti Kumquat is so Mayberry it make me gag. The kid has never successfully completed a major project anywhere. His tower proposal would have cost more than his other proposals combined. He is a kid, in way over his head. But he sure loves the adulation the local yokels gave him.

Senecas increased the Buffalo Creek Casino Tower height? That's a first in Buffalo.

:applause:About your Issa comment. I read some of the comments from people from Manchester on Buffalo Pundit about his tower plans around the world.

He has stopped work on the Statler?

[Dasein]

If he can get the Statler renovation completed, that will still be a big plus for downtown Buffalo.

[Paul_Atreides]

Senecas increased the Buffalo Creek Casino Tower height? That's a first in Buffalo.

:applause:About your Issa comment. I read some of the comments from people from Manchester on Buffalo Pundit about his tower plans around the world.

He has stopped work on the Statler?

I had a feeling they were going to increase the height of the Buffalo Seneca Creek Hotel Tower. If I were Snyder then Id be planning for the conversion of the Hyatt to atleast some form of residential mix.

The mistake of the Court Street Tower is that they are not going to offer even a minimum of underground parking.

That being said, the proposed Buffalo City Tower is still very much needed downtown. There is great need for it even with the other downtown developments and while it may not be able to attract companies from other urban areas, from downstate or from canada today....Buffalo desperately needs a Buffalo City Tower built and move in ready to attract them tomorrow.

[Jerome]

Senecas increased the Buffalo Creek Casino Tower height? That's a first in Buffalo.

:applause:About your Issa comment. I read some of the comments from people from Manchester on Buffalo Pundit about his tower plans around the world.

He has stopped work on the Statler?sorry for the misunderstanding. The February 30 plus proposal is for Niagara Falls ny. The Bufalo casino hotel remains at 22 floors.

[Dimension]

Hey, it gives hope that the Senecas might build another tower for the Buffalo Creek Casino.

And then with Waterfront Place II in the future, Buffalo might have 4 new towers that have an impact on the skyline.

[Fishnat22]

I had a feeling they were going to increase the height of the Buffalo Seneca Creek Hotel Tower. If I were Snyder then Id be planning for the conversion of the Hyatt to atleast some form of residential mix.

The mistake of the Court Street Tower is that they are not going to offer even a minimum of underground parking.

That being said, the proposed Buffalo City Tower is still very much needed downtown. There is great need for it even with the other downtown developments and while it may not be able to attract companies from other urban areas, from downstate or from canada today....Buffalo desperately needs a Buffalo City Tower built and move in ready to attract them tomorrow.

Completely, respectfully, disagree with you.

Why do we need this tower? I think its because we all want a shiny new building to be excited about.

We need jobs, population growth, and things getting done. Take a trip downtown and look at the massive space existing that can't be filled. One day, we will need a tower like this. Not this day.

[Jerome]

If he can get the Statler renovation completed, that will still be a big plus for downtown Buffalo.
Huge if. In nearly two years since his arrival all he has done is fix the elevator's and made a (very) few cosmetic improvements through the use of day laborers. The Statler will be for sale long before it is renovated by the Issa kid.

[Paul_Atreides]

you know I dont care if it takes 3 years for the Statler....because Buffalo suffers from decades of entrenched and toxic pessimism so if Issa can keep the news filled with civic minded positive news to keep us engaged, positive and hopeful....then thats fine with me.

In case any of you have been out of town lately, many other cities are in just as bad shape as Buffalo but they have a wonderful marketing department assuring everyone just how wonderful their city is and what a great place it is to invest. Rochester is famous for being more prejudiced and bigoted than Buffalo....but you will never hear about it...because of marketing. Basically Buffalo does absolutely no marketing at all...Buffalo has no hype and no spin...in some ways we are better for it...and in others we suffer because of it.

and as far as the comment about empty buildings downtown well many of those buildings are empty for a reason and many need to be converted to residential (Statler, Hyatt, Lafayette, Liberty, Greater Buffalo Savings Bank, Touraine are perfect examples). Their just to old to compete which is why we really do need the city tower and probably more than 1.

[Fishnat22]

and as far as the comment about empty buildings downtown well many of those buildings are empty for a reason and many need to be converted to residential (Statler, Hyatt, Lafayette, Liberty, Greater Buffalo Savings Bank, Touraine are perfect examples). Their just to old to compete which is why we really do need the city tower and probably more than 1.

They're also empty because there isn't the market. Where are all these people coming from? I seriously wish I could sit back and believe that there was a massive influx of jobs and people in Buffalo, but there isnt. There is job growth, yes, but we need to amp that 10x to see the turnaround

[Paul_Atreides]

They're also empty because there isn't the market. Where are all these people coming from? I seriously wish I could sit back and believe that there was a massive influx of jobs and people in Buffalo, but there isnt. There is job growth, yes, but we need to amp that 10x to see the turnaround

As I said there is a market if our old and obsolete office buildings were converted to residential. There are more people that want to move downtown than there are residential apartments/condos for them to purchase. If that happened then that is going to open up and justify new office buildings to be constructed and its going to create a re-think of the surrounding inner-city neighborhoods also.

[Fishnat22]

As I said there is a market if our old and obsolete office buildings were converted to residential. There are more people that want to move downtown than there are residential apartments/condos for them to purchase. If that happened then that is going to open up and justify new office buildings to be constructed and its going to create a re-think of the surrounding inner-city neighborhoods also.

But it's all an IF at this point man. I agree, this is possible when that market it there. But until we have those major projects completed, its not going to happen. Not only doesn't this guy have the money or the track record, he has no tenants.

[Dasein]

But it's all an IF at this point man. I agree, this is possible when that market it there. But until we have those major projects completed, its not going to happen. Not only doesn't this guy have the money or the track record, he has no tenants.

Issa is a bit overzealous - we need to start with some smaller projects before we move on to a major tower like he is proposing. Things like 50 Court St. are a good start, as are all the loft conversions. As existing building get converted into more in-demand uses, it will create the pressure for bigger projects. Downtown Buffalo is making steady progress, but we're just not at the point yet where something like the City Tower is viable.

[Paul_Atreides]

But it's all an IF at this point man. I agree, this is possible when that market it there. But until we have those major projects completed, its not going to happen. Not only doesn't this guy have the money or the track record, he has no tenants.

those tenants are coming....the canadian dollar is fluctuating in value to where it is actually worth more than the US dollar....which makes Buffalo actually cheaper for Canadian offices than canada!

Buffalo's day has arrived..and we better have office space read for them because their not going to wait...if they have to wait then its hello cleveland or pittsburgh.

[Dimension]

But there is Ellicott Square Building and HSBC Tower and other buildings that still have vacancies.

[Jerome]

those tenants are coming....the canadian dollar is fluctuating in value to where it is actually worth more than the US dollar....which makes Buffalo actually cheaper for Canadian offices than canada!
.They are not coming. Realty USA tried in vain for over a year and a half to entice Caniadian companies to come to the Issa tower in Buffalo. A year and a half and not one taker, NOT ONE!!! No local takers either.

Thoughts of Canadian companies setting up shop in Buffalo were strongly rebuked by the Canadian companies. Plus, Bufalo is still more exensive to them than St Catherines or London, Ont. then there are all of the ever increasing border hassels. It ain't gonna happen.

[bjfan82]

^ welll not entirely accurate Jerome, they did get the local design firm Cannon Design to take something like 75k SF. Far too little to get the building under construction i know.

[Paul_Atreides]

just put jerome on ignore like I have....if it was up to jerome the entire city of buffalo would have shut down in the 1970s

I will say it again....the ellicott building wouldnt have problems if buildings like the LaFayette, the Liberty, the Greater Buffalo Savings Bank, the Touraine, etc etc etc were converted to residential.

those canadian companies with the strong dollar are buying US assets and they are expanding into the US market in ways that were never done in the past....and yes the border is an issue which is why canadian companies will follow LaBatts and establish separate operations in the US to which we can hope they will choose Buffalo because of its close proximity to their canadian headquarters.

They said canadians would never drive across the bridge to shop here and yet they are.

They said canadians would never drive across the bridge to use our airport and yet they are.

They said canadians would never drive across the bridge to go to college and yet they do.

Just because they havent come yet does not mean they arent coming.

Right now...a company called Acquest took millions of sqft of warehouse space in rochester rather than build in buffalo. why? Because rochester had class a new facilities for warehouse space in the millions of sqft move in ready. Geico originally bypassed Buffalo because they didnt want to build and we didnt have a move-in ready class a office space.

So I say this....if Buffalo continues its toxic pessimism then it is going to continue to get bypassed....in so many ways....Buffalo has to get move in ready space built and cannot continue to wait until class c and class b property are filled. Its the opposite....class c and class b needs to be converted to a useable space like residential and new space needs to be built.

Issas building may struggle and it may suffer but Buffalo will not get bypassed as it would without it...

[Jerome]

^ welll not entirely accurate Jerome, they did get the local design firm Cannon Design to take something like 75k SF. Far too little to get the building under construction i know.
They (Cannon) never actually committed which is why the full 600,00 sq ft is still listed as available on the Realty USA web site.

[Jerome]

the entire city of buffalo would have shut down in the 1970s
It basically did, which is why it has lost over 200,000 people since then.:laugh:
They said canadians would never drive across the bridge to shop here and yet they are.

They said canadians would never drive across the bridge to use our airport and yet they are.

They said canadians would never drive across the bridge to go to college and yet they do.

Actually no one ever said any of those things. They have been coming and going across the border freely for over 200 years. For business it is an entirely different set of issues which you are no doubt to naive to understand

[Dimension]

Canadian businesses wont move in to Buffalo until the cost of doing business here is lower than it is now. Which might happen in the next 1-3 years if Spitzer comes through for you guys.

[Jerome]

Canadian businesses wont move in to Buffalo until the cost of doing business here is lower than it is now. Which might happen in the next 1-3 years if Spitzer comes through for you guys.

Well we can kill that idea. The budget he released yesterday increases taxes and fees by $1.4 BILLION.

[Dimension]

Thats a shame. I heard that downstate officials want him to take money away from upstate and have the money go to their schools which need the money more than any other place.

[Jerome]

More insight into Issa

http://buffalopundit.wnymedia.net/blogs/archives/6160

[Dimension]

I think it is safe to say the project is dead.

[Dimension]

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/3347/statlerss5.png

posted by westcoastperspective on skyscraperpage.com posted 1/27/08

[eMKay]

I think it is safe to say the project is dead.

Today's paper would suggest otherwise. I think I'll go with that.

[Kailyas]

nice building

[Jerome]

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/3347/statlerss5.png

posted by westcoastperspective on skyscraperpage.com posted 1/27/08
Unfortunately that insert was prepared nearly two week ago, by the news advertising department for yesterday's paper. - before all of Issa's house of cards began to fall. We shall see if a hotel opens in the Statler this Summer, that will say a lot about Issa's credibility.

[Spaulding97]

Unfortunately that insert was prepared nearly two week ago, by the news advertising department for yesterday's paper. - before all of Issa's house of cards began to fall. We shall see if a hotel opens in the Statler this Summer, that will say a lot about Issa's credibility.


How do you know that insert was prepared nearly two week ago? I thought you lived in Lockport?

[Jerome]

How do you know that insert was prepared nearly two week ago? I thought you lived in Lockport?

I don't live in Lockport. It was printed nearly 2 weeks ago and delivered to the vendors on the 21st. The add deadline for it was more than 3 weeks prior to it's delivery date so that alone should tell you how current it is. Ask your local 7-11 or Wilson Farms guy when they get the features sections for the Sunday paper. And with a major insert like the Prospectus the lead time is even longer. Remember they only have so much press capacity. Look at the Parade section a couple of weeks ago they had a cover story interview with someone that was dead over a month, but no mention of her death was made - because it's printed in advance.

[Dimension]

Website was launched not to long ago
http://www.buffalo-city-tower.com/

New Renders (Note the spire and glass):
http://img507.imageshack.us/img507/4826/bct3et4.png

http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/1084/bct1gq3.png

New:
http://img210.imageshack.us/img210/1576/bct2jh8.png

Old:
http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/4798/03zl9.jpg

------------------
650-700 feet tall with the spire?

[zerokarma]

So is this project back from the dead?

[eMKay]

AFAIK it was never dead, just a lot of typical pessimism here.

[Dimension]

Here's a little something-something.

I know someone who contacted BSC to inquire about space. He was told they are talking to a firm that would take "30-40 percent of the office space" and a "big name hotel operator." They expect to have answers on these before the end of the year. If they are a go, "they will go to construction in the spring of 2009."

Good news.

[Dimension]

Could that big tenant be the Senecas?

10 minutes from Niagara Falls and what 40 minutes from the reservation. Seems like it would be a good choice imo.

[Spaulding97]

Could that big tenant be the Senecas?

10 minutes from Niagara Falls and what 40 minutes from the reservation. Seems like it would be a good choice imo.

Ive heard that rumor for awhile. But the Senecas are converting an office building acroos from the casino, so i dont think its them. We should call Nancy Drew!:cheers:

[ECoastTransplant]

Could that big tenant be the Senecas?

10 minutes from Niagara Falls and what 40 minutes from the reservation. Seems like it would be a good choice imo.


Not Senecas, and not a bank from what I hear. That narrows it, huh? :)

[Dimension]

I don't know.

I would guess it would somewhat.

[vancouverite/to'er]

What's been the general reaction to the redesign? I thought the white glass in the first rendering was more unique.

[Dimension]

From what I know, the project has been in hush hush mode for a while.

[Dimension]

Anyone have a hint on what the hotel will be?

Hilton? Omni?

[steel]

4 seasons

[Dimension]

^^Four Seasons Buffalo... I guess I could get used to it.

[Jim856796]

The Buffalo City Tower is the only proposed skyscraper in Buffalo that I know of. I don't know if the city's skyline world recieve an upgrade in the future. Buffalo may never revrse its population decline seeing as it has lost half its 1950 population.

[Dasein]

The Buffalo City Tower is the only proposed skyscraper in Buffalo that I know of. I don't know if the city's skyline world recieve an upgrade in the future. Buffalo may never revrse its population decline seeing as it has lost half its 1950 population.

There's a few other projects in the works that will change the skyline. The Seneca casino, which is currently under construction now, will feature a 22 story hotel, and the Gates Circle condo tower will be 23 stories. There's also rumors of another condo tower for the waterfront, but nothing official there.

[Spaulding97]

The Buffalo City Tower is the only proposed skyscraper in Buffalo that I know of. I don't know if the city's skyline world recieve an upgrade in the future. Buffalo may never revrse its population decline seeing as it has lost half its 1950 population.

And you would know this by living in Beijing? There are about 5 or so skyscrapers in the works. So ask us again in 4 years

[Dasein]

And you would know this by living in Beijing? There are about 5 or so skyscrapers in the works. So ask us again in 4 years

To be fair, I wonder how many people in Beijing are even aware of any development going on in Buffalo?

[Dimension]

The Buffalo City Tower is the only proposed skyscraper in Buffalo that I know of. I don't know if the city's skyline world recieve an upgrade in the future. Buffalo may never revrse its population decline seeing as it has lost half its 1950 population.

Actually, the population is expected to bottom out in 2015-2020 with a population between 240000-260000. Around 2030 it is expected to be between 280000-320000.

[Fishnat22]

Project officially declared dead, the tower site was sold to Mark Croce to become another glorified surface lot..er i mean, mixed used development.

[Dimension]

^^So are all of Issa's other projects so its not like Buffalo was singled out this time.

[Fishnat22]

Just an eager guy playing SimCity with daddy's cash (:

[Jim856796]

And you would know this by living in Beijing? There are about 5 or so skyscrapers in the works. So ask us again in 4 years

Actually, i don't live in Beijing. I am actually a 21st Century Nomad (One who travels from place to place, I'm not in search of food, though). Anyway, they should have approved this tower instead of putting it on hold or cancelling it. this is, or was, a major improvement for Buffalo.

[Dimension]

They did approve it.

He was just bad at managing money so all of his projects have been forced in to bankruptcy.