There she stands. Quietly overlooking North Buffalo.

An empty plot of land surrounds her, and many months have passed since the former Korean Methodist Church sat in tact, keeping her company. It’s been even longer since there was activity at that corner.

To me, this nearly demolished space is a reminder of the “old Buffalo” – blighted and defeated. But, if you look at it from a different angle (and I suggest you do), this very tower symbolizes the movement we’re seeing all around town. One of promise, hope, and revitalization.

This tower is destined to return to glory. Just like those grain elevators downtown and the countless turn of the century warehouse buildings we’re seeing slowly reborn.

You may have read a prior blog of mine showing the plans to build high end apartments around the anchor tower. Time may have passed, but the plans haven’t changed.

The good folks at Saranac Central Block Association reached out to the owner of the planned development, Sam DeFranks, this month and got this update:

• The project is moving forward but at a slower pace than planned. The harsh winter caused a series of delays for most contractors.
• The design and intentions remain the same and the goal is to have foundations poured and framing/building shell construction start late this fall/early winter.

In general the following tasks will take place in the coming weeks:

• Parking lot will be privatized and fenced/secured (by Halloween)
• Job trailer will be located in parking lot (by Halloween)
• Concrete foundations will commence (November)
• Framing/shell construction will follow foundations

I’ve had the opportunity to speak with Sam a few times and his position has always been the same. He’s excited for this project and for North Buffalo. He’s a bit apologetic for the length of time it’s taking to get a shovel in the ground. And most of all, he’s thankful for the patience and support of the community.

Hang in there folks, good things are ahead!

Tower photo courtesy of Chris Bordeleau Photography (@buffcleb).