BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)- The entrance to Elmwood Village could have a major makeover. A developer wants to transform the corner of Elmwood Ave. and Forest Ave. into a five story condominium complex.
Some neighbors think it would create an upscale entrance to the neighborhood. Other people told News 4 the developer should preserve history by restoring buildings already standing at the corner.
“That corner has always been an artists’ and musicians’ corner,” said Mark Madden, owner of MaddTat2. “From day one that corner has always been an epicenter of arts, music, culture and nightlife.”
Madden’s shop has been on Elmwood Ave. for 14 years and would be torn down if the proposal moves forward.
Chason Affinity Companies wants to knock down 12 buildings to construct the new complex, which will have condos, townhouses and three retail spaces.
“Whether those are going to fit what we need as a tattoo studio, we’re not really sure yet,” said Madden,
He told News 4 he sees both sides of the debate but the uncertainty causes him to focus on his other two locations.
“We are going to move our artists to the other two locations, which is here on Hertel and on Niagara Street, and at the same time we are looking for other locations on Elmwood,” said Madden.
He said they still want a timeline so they packed into a meeting Monday night to hear where the project stands.
Architect Steven Carmina explained they’re collecting feedback on the plans. They want to build at least 50 condos and at least 5 townhouses, each unit will have a patio. There will also be 155 parking spaces on two levels, one underground and another above it, covered by a raised berm.
Carmina also showed the crowd the changes they’ve made to the façade since the last public meeting.
One woman from North Buffalo spoke up and said, “I can’t imagine a better project going in that corner.”
She received a round of applause but not everyone agrees.
“Sure there’s people that want something that looks better and I don’t blame them but none of the other houses in the neighborhood look like that, it’s purely demolition by neglect,” said Susan Girage, who lives on Forest Ave.
Girage’s family has owned a home abutting the proposal site for 70 years. She wants to see the developer preserve the homes already standing.
“We’re trying to save the Elmwood Village from losing what people come to see,” said Girage. “They’re not going to come to see condos. They want funky looking or artsy stuff, maybe a little boutique here or there, it all blends together.”
The proposal has not been submitted to the city. If it does move forward, the plans would have to go before the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals.
