Buffalo could pioneer a prototype “Adaptive-Reuse” model for the future by reusing one of its most unique monumental structures.

Imagine the Buffalo Skyway creatively re-engineered and readapted to function as a signature “green” multi-use mega-structure, complete with a glass enclosed “green roof” and pedestrian pathway instead of as an overhead roadway. In addition to creating 400,000 sq. ft. of usable multi-purpose floor space, its 32,000 sq. ft. of enclosed roof would allow the people of Buffalo to walk and enjoy the elevated views year-round in a conservatory-like setting.

It would also create a walkway to and from downtown and the waterfront. The proposal we will discuss throughout next week with Ran Webber, the structural engineer behind this proposal, can be implemented in its entirety which would connect Buffalo’s outer and inner harbors or in smaller pieces as a complimentary feature to the existing inner harbor plans.

A major factor to be considered is that the Skyway’s superstructure is already complete as is, including foundations, structural support frame, roof (former roadway), and electrical supply and drainage systems. Once the Skyway no longer functions as an overhead roadway the advantages gained would answer and outweigh all of the arguments for taking the structure down.

Two Buffalo Businessmen purchased the former Freezer Queen plant in November for $3 Million.

Their plans include:

• Conversion of the existing six-story, 272,000-square-foot food production and storage plant to condominiums, possibly adding two more floors to create luxury penthouse suites;

• A 250- to 400-room, five-star hotel tower, to be built on the tip of the mini-peninsula;

• A residential tower and townhouses on undeveloped areas of the property.

The Queen City team plans to move as “expeditiously” as possible with the hope of beginning the food plant-to-condo conversion by late spring. They are currently interviewing local and national architects for the project.

It sounds like a great plan, but with our local economy the way it is, and being the second poorest city in the country and all, is it really worth the investment or will it wind up another empty structure on the frozen tundra we call a waterfront?