A historic corridor is getting a sprucing up, thanks to $262,5000 makeover. The project, slated to restore the integrity of Richmond Avenue, will include a much needed paving project that will resurface the street, which in recent years has fallen into deplorable condition (for cars and cyclists).

“Thanks to my partners in government who helped secure funds for this project, we’ve begun the $262,5000 makeover of this historic corridor that leads to one of Buffalo’s great cultural attractions, Kleinhans Music Hall,” said Mayor Brown. “The work involves paving along Richmond Avenue, from West Ferry Street to Symphony Circle, continuing my administration’s strong commitment to infrastructure improvements citywide.”

Replacement of highway style street lamp standards (so long cobra necks) began last year, which helped to transition the street into a neighborhood setting, rather than a thoroughfare in appearance.

“By investing in our city’s foundational infrastructure, we’re creating a better pathway for Western New Yorkers to visit places such as Kleinhans Music Hall, and encouraging them to truly explore our city’s assets,” said Senator Tim Kennedy. “As this paving project moves forward with Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) funding (as well as City funds), I’m proud to see New York State continuing to support our vision of creating a New Buffalo.”

According to The City, the resurfacing of the street coincides with $4 million of work being conducted at Kleinhans Music Hall for its upcoming 75th anniversary celebration.

Assemblyman Ryan said “I thank Mayor Brown for prioritizing and providing funding for this important project, and the state for allocating CHIPs funding to make the upgrades to Richmond Avenue a reality. The improved streetscape will be a welcome change for residents of the City of Buffalo and visitors alike.”

Richmond Avenue is a major connector between the Kleinhans community (marked by an Olmsted roundabout) and the mighty Richardson-Olmsted Complex. The street is flanked by a trifecta of majestic architectural icons, including EB Green’s First Presbyterian Church and Kleinhans Music Hall (Eliel and Eero Saarinen).

Niagara District Council Member Rivera stated, “I would like to thank the Mayor Brown and Commissioner Stepniak for their commitment to improving the streetscape of Richmond Avenue. My community development strategy over the past 7 years has been a block-by-block approach through focused improvements in strategic areas. The upgrading of the street lights and repaving of the road surface on Richmond continues that focused, strategic investment.”

The project is slated to be completed by Fall 2015.