The Wilkeson Pointe area on Buffalo’s Outer Harbor has reopened following an $11 million renovation project, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced. The improvements cover a seven-acre site between the water’s edge and Fuhrmann Boulevard, expanding public access to the waterfront and enhancing amenities for visitors.
A new restaurant, Perro & Poni, is set to open soon at the site. Operated by the team behind South Buffalo’s Dog & Pony Saloon, it will offer Tex-Mex cuisine and feature a beer garden with sand seating areas, a patio deck, and views of the water.
“Wilkeson Pointe has been one of Buffalo’s top spots for relaxation and recreation for more than a decade,” Governor Hochul said. “Now, whether you’re meeting up with friends, enjoying an outdoor stroll or taking in the sunset, this new restaurant and expanded waterfront access, make Wilkeson Pointe an unparalleled outdoor destination.”
While in Buffalo, Governor Hochul also shared that Victory Cruise Lines intends to include Buffalo in its cruise itineraries starting in 2027. This commitment depends on completion of terminal facilities and agreements regarding use of the seawall mooring. The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) board recently approved a $1.65 million contract for design and construction administration of a cruise ship terminal on the Outer Harbor. Construction is expected to begin early next year with completion targeted for mid-2027.
Perro & Poni will provide counter-service dining with Tex-Mex dishes as well as a full bar offering tequila-based drinks, frozen cocktails, local craft beers, and non-alcoholic options.
Renovations at Wilkeson Pointe began in September 2023 after being announced by Governor Hochul as part of accelerated waterfront projects in Buffalo. Improvements include relocating parking away from pedestrian trails and the water for safety, adding restrooms and storage for management staff, creating new outdoor seating areas, elevating trails near the water’s edge, and upgrading landscaping with native species to create meadows and pollinator fields.
Recreational activities have resumed at Wilkeson Pointe with volleyball courts, an open lawn area, park golf facilities, kayak and bicycle rentals. The Buffalo Waterfront has organized a summer calendar featuring volleyball games, fitness events, live music series alongside daily amenities.
Dog & Pony Saloon General Manager Suzanne Shatzel said: “We’re thrilled to build on the success of Dog & Pony Saloon in South Buffalo and open Perro & Poni at Wilkeson Pointe. Perro & Poni will bring fresh, Tex-Mex flavors to the Outer Harbor and offer visitors an exciting new dining experience at one of the best stops along Buffalo’s scenic waterfront.”
Empire State Development President Hope Knight stated: “With fresh options for dining, recreation, and relaxation, the improved Wilkeson Pointe is an exceptional space to enjoy Buffalo’s Outer Harbor vistas and natural beauty. This project upgrades a longtime favorite spot for Western New York residents and transforms it into a must-visit destination for all, furthering the state’s efforts to revitalize Buffalo’s magnificent waterfront.”
Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation Chairperson Joan Kesner added: “As we cut the ribbon on the Wilkeson Pointe improvements, we did the near-impossible: made one of the best places in Western New York even better. Governor Hochul made this project one of her priorities… Make sure coming down to the Outer Harbor — for a refreshing drink… is on your Summer 2025 bucket list.”
Funding was provided by New York Power Authority through relicensing agreements related to operation of Niagara Power Project.
New York Power Authority President Justin E. Driscoll commented: “Buffalo’s Outer Harbor has always been one of the best places to enjoy the region’s stunning vistas… Through nearly $155 million in Power Authority funding support to ECHDC… Wilkeson Pointe now includes world-class amenities that elevate visitor experience…”
Wilkeson Pointe was first established in 2013 on land previously used by NYPA for ice boom storage as well as private industry uses. A $5 million state investment capped soil areas so that public use could begin; features such as bike paths, kayak launch sites and regenerative landscaping were added during earlier development phases.
State Senator April N.M. Baskin remarked: “In 12 years… Residents and visitors alike can be proud of improved access… I look forward to bringing my family here…”
Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said: “Through effectual state leadership… we’ve taken great strides reconnecting Buffalo communities with our waterfront… These improvements not only expand public access… but also reimagine Outer Harbor as dynamic destination…”
Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz stated: “Wilkeson Pointe provides opportunities for incredible views… I thank Governor Hochul for advocating funding… so Erie County residents… can benefit from improved access…”
Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon noted: “Wilkeson Pointe has become one of Buffalo’s most iconic waterfront destinations… Thanks to Governor Hochul’s leadership… we’re giving residents and visitors even more reasons to explore…”
The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation oversees infrastructure projects like these across Canalside and Outer Harbor areas (more information available at www.buffalowaterfront.com). The organization aims to revitalize Western New York’s waterfronts while encouraging economic growth through increased public enjoyment.
