New York Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $10 million in funding for the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park’s Coastal Shoreline Project in Buffalo. The money comes from the state’s $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act and is part of a broader $65 million effort to improve the resilience of the Lake Erie shoreline by replacing an aging seawall and naturalizing the area along park property.
“Enhancing the Ralph Wilson Park is just the type of project New York voters envisioned when they overwhelmingly supported the $4.2 billion Environmental Bond Act in 2022,” Governor Hochul said. “This park restoration project enhances accessible recreational opportunities just steps away from downtown Buffalo while advancing a more sustainable and resilient future for the Lake Erie shoreline. By bolstering and naturalizing the urban shoreline, we’re helping protect this special area from high water, reducing flooding from extreme weather events driven by climate change and enhancing valuable shoreline fish and wildlife habitat.”
The transformation of Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park was first announced by Governor Hochul in 2022. The site sits at Lake Erie’s eastern end where it meets the Niagara River—a location valued for its lake access but also exposed to harsh conditions such as wind, ice, and waves. A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assessment in June 2011 identified major deterioration in the existing seawall that required structural repairs.
In 2018, the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation pledged $50 million to help transform what was formerly LaSalle Park into a regional destination for residents and visitors alike. Additional foundation funding launched Imagine LaSalle, a community-driven planning process that contributed to a redevelopment plan featuring new amenities like play gardens, sports fields, pedestrian paths, picnic shelters, concession stands, and improved waterfront access.
The current phase of redevelopment will replace sections of degraded seawall with a softer shoreline designed to absorb wave energy and reduce flood risks while providing better public access to Lake Erie for activities such as paddling. The new design also aims to restore habitats for local wildlife.
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton stated: “As climate change and extreme weather continue to impact our shorelines, the $4.2 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act is one of the most critical tools we have to support projects like the shoreline restoration at Ralph Wilson Park in Buffalo. This investment is helping New York State safeguard communities from extreme weather, protect natural resources and drinking water, and ensure people have places to explore nature and public recreation. Under Governor Hochul’s sustained leadership and generational investments, New York State is committed to building a healthier, more sustainable, and resilient future for every New Yorker.”
Empire State Development President Hope Knight added: “Empire State Development is pleased to support the Ralph C. Wilson Centennial Park project through the Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper by funding paddlesport launches to provide safe access to the water. The excitement for this project is building as we work to create a thriving waterfront that attracts visitors, boosts tourism, and generates economic activity.”
Environmental Facilities Corporation President Maureen A. Coleman commented: “We applaud this latest investment in the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park shoreline project… This transformational project is a model for how Environmental Bond Act funding can strengthen shoreline resiliency, improve water quality, and reconnect communities to their natural waterfronts.”
Partners supporting various phases include federal agencies like U.S Army Corps of Engineers; non-profits such as Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper; city agencies; state departments; foundations; commissions; conservancies; academic institutions; among others.
State Senator Ryan said: “When New Yorkers voted to pass the Environmental Bond Act… This funding will help protect the park and pumping station for decades…”
Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said: “I applaud Governor Hochul and DEC for their $10 million investment in Niagara River shoreline restoration with seawall replacement… Both investments will be appreciated by generations of Buffalonians…”
Assemblymember Jonathan Rivera noted: “This investment… will ensure that this treasured community space is both environmentally resilient and accessible…”
Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon stated: “Ralph Wilson Park represents a once-in-a-generation transformative investment… I want to thank Governor Hochul…for their partnership…”
Ralph C.Wilson Foundation President David Egner emphasized community engagement during planning: “Throughout Imagine LaSalle community engagement process…it’s critical that we also address safety & resiliency needs along shoreline so park can be enjoyed today,tomorrow & long into future.”
Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy Executive Director Katie Campos called it “one of most vital pieces infrastructure” unlocking next phase investment thanks largely due governor’s leadership.
Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper Executive Director Jill Jedlicka said partners’ collaboration has been key:“Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper has guided efforts …to create living shorelines & healthier environment… vision always been more resilient waterfront … rehabilitate habitat fish & wildlife can thrive here…”
Voters approved New York’s Environmental Bond Act on November 8th 2022—making billions available statewide for environmental initiatives focused on clean water sources,pollution reduction,&climate adaptation.New programs supported by these funds include stormwater management grants—with applications due August 15th 2025.More information about these resources can be found at https://environmentalbondact.ny.gov/.
According to state data,since 2017 New York has invested about $6 billion towards water infrastructure upgrades,and continues allocating hundreds of millions annually through budgeted funds like its Environmental Protection Fund.This supports conservation programs ranging from land acquisition,to climate mitigation,to improving water quality across regions.
