Wed. Apr. 17, 2002 6:00 PM
Mark your calendars and hope to see you there!
KCA Committee Chairs Needed.
Are you interested in being a chair of a KCA committee? Chairs are needed for the following
committees: Crime Watch, Block Leaders, Social, Beautification, Housing, Fund Raising,
Nominations, Recruiting, Program and Refreshment. If you are interested, contact Chris Brown
at 884-1914 or cbrown4884@aol.com.
Housing Changes.
The following houses were sold at the city tax auction in October, 2001: 350 Hudson, 317
Jersey and 22 Orton. Congratulations to Ray and Melissa Klein, who recently purchased 26
Orton Place. Congratulations to Chris Sheets who recently purchased 35 Wadsworth Street.
Congratulations to Gary and Michelle Sczerbaniewicz, who recently purchased 500 Porter Ave.
Congratulations to Dawn Drummer who purchased 330 Hudson Street.
Several houses in the neighborhood are in danger of demolition. 322 Pennsylvania Street,
32 St. John's Place, 359 Hudson Street and 34 Plymouth Ave. are all in danger of being
demolished. 32 St. John's Place is owned by the city of Buffalo. They are willing to sell it for $1
if anyone is interested. The Preservation Coalition of Erie County have tried to advertise it on
their web site to try and find a buyer. Surf to 32 St. John's web site
to check it out.
New Housing Inspector In Neighborhood.
Chris Curtain is the new housing inspector for the KCA area. You can reach him at City Hall,
851-4200 if you need to report any housing violations
New Ellicott Distric Counilmember elected.
Brian Davis is the new leglislator representing the Ellicott District in the Common Council.
Please wish Mr. Davis congratulations in his new post. You may reach him with any concerns
you may have at 851-4200.
Hundreds of Flowers Planted in Orton Gardens.
Thanks to Beth Kauffman for planting 300 daffodil bulbs in Orton Gardens, the KCA community
garden at 20 Orton Place in November. We can't wait to see them sprout with beautiful flowers
in the spring. Three new vegetable beds will be constructed in spring 2002. If you would like to
adopt a 4' x 10' vegetable bed to plant produce in spring 2002, please contact Chris Brown,
884-1914. Two beds are still available.
For details of Orton Gardens, surf to the 2001 Orton Gardens Web
Page.
KCA Website Provides Outreach.
An unsolicited note was received from a web surfer regarding the KCA web site which said: "I
am currently the president of bickford edith and alice (BEA) block club, located in the
Kensington/Bailey area, and was truly impressed with KCA website, and great work. Thank you
very much for allowing me the opportunity to review an inspiring, and worth seeing efforts, and
accomplishments of the organization. I am looking for ways to improve residents participation in
block club efforts, and it was refreshing to explore KCA dedication to preserve, and maintain
quality of life for residents/neigborhood. Viewing the KCA website was truly inspiring!!! Thank
you, Doris Corley"
Proposal to Remove the Mailbox from Kleinhans Grounds.
The mailbox outside of Kleinhans Music Hall at Porter Ave. is seldom used and is an aestic
affront to the Saarinen masterpiece. There are two other mailboxes in Symphony circle. One is in
front of BPO office on Richmond and other on Wadsworth side of Grace Manor. Please call Ann
Angelo, 885-9503 or Sue Byron, 882-3887 if you have concerns about the mailbox issue.
Please Attend Planning Meeting.
The Lower West Side Redevelopment Plan meeting is being held Tuesday, January 29, 2002
6PM, at HUB 254 Viriginia Street.
KCA Hopes to Gain Support of Heart of the City to Rehab Housing.
The KCA will be working with the HCN Board of Directors in early February to attempt to
identify houses for acquisition and rehab. The HCN has done this in other nearby neighborhoods
and it is hoped that the success can be repeated in the KCA neighborhood. More details about
this project to come.
KCA and Friends of Night People Hope to Better Neighborhood Through Cooperation
A preliminary meeting between the KCA and Friends of the Night People took place on February
2, 2002. Chris Brown from the KCA and Darren Strickland, Executive Director of the Friends of
the Night People met to discuss the goals and objectives of a larger community meeting to be
scheduled soon. Chris and Darren both agreed that mutual cooperation and respect between the
neighborhood and Friends of the Night People will yield increased benefit for all. Darren noted
that after Buffalo's recent severe snowstorm in December, many neighborhood residents stepped
forward to volunteer at Friends of the Night People when out-of-towners could not get to
Buffalo.
While Friends of the Night People remains a legendary institution in Buffalo, there are some
concerns from nearby residents concerning quality-of-life issues. The KCA, Friends and the
Allentown Association will meet soon to try to come to a solution which benefits all. The
ongoing spirit of cooperation is hoped to yield results where there has been frustration on all parts
in the past.
Results of Kleinhans Community Association Neighborhood Survey Summary.
A number of residents of the Kleinhans neighborhood were surveyed about their experiences
living in the area. Nineteen residents responded to the survey. The average time a resident lived
in the neighborhood was about 10 years, although three respondents lived in the neighborhood for
over 20 years. Several residents who responded to the survey only lived in the neighborhood two
years or less.
When asked for reasons why they choose to live in the neighborhood, respondents were
amazingly consistent. First and foremost, respondents stated that the diverse, accepting, cultural
focus of the neighborhood was its greatest strength. In addition, quality-built, beautiful,
affordable housing was cited as a draw in addition to the neighborhood's proximity to downtown
and cultural amenities.
When asked about what troubles the area, most people responded with concerns about the
decline of the housing stock in the area either through neglect, abandonment or demolition.
Respondents also expressed concern with petty crime (thievery, vandalism) and loss of city
services. Several people mentioned that traffic calming would be a welcome addition to the
neighborhood.
While these issues appear to be concerns, most feedback stated that residents are
overwhelmingly committed to the area and want to work to improve the quality of life for all.
When specifically asked about Friends of the Night People, the residents who were most
directly impacted live on Wadsworth or Hudson Streets. Some of the complaints may be
addressed through procedural changes. Loitering, traffic problems at the Hudson/Wadsworth
intersection and the appearance of the building seem to be the biggest complaints.
There appears to be no more divisive issue than Friends of the Night People in the
neighborhood. Friends has been at its location on Hudson and Wadsworth for nearly 20 years and
as shown by attached Buffalo News articles dating back to 1989. While its location is steeped in
controversy, Friends has been part of the neighborhood for two decades. Any changes that can
be effected to improve relations between Friends of the Night People, its influential board and
supporters, clients and the surrounding residential community will benefit all.
1. When did you move into neighborhood?
#1 - 11/1981
#2 - 8/30/2001
#3 - 1993
#4 - 1991, my husband moved here in 1972
#5 - 20 years ago
#6 - 1999
#7 - More than 20 years ago
#8 - 1993
#9 - December 1994
#10 - 1990
#11 - 1982
#12 - December, 2000
#13 - Rented on Pennsylvania Street from 1985-1987, purchased 34 Orton in 1994, purchased
11 Plymouth in 1998.
#14 - November, 2000
#15 - 1988
#16 - 1986 - purchased 335 Pennsylvania, 1995 - purchased 42 Orton, 2000 purchased - 43
Plymouth
#17 - 1998
2. What are your favorite reasons why you live or own a house in the neighborhood?
#1 - Diversity, convenience, old houses, GREAT neighbors, most of whom have remained
constant for the 20 years I've lived here.
#2 - Centrally located to most down town events. Beautiful historical district. Great houses.
#3 - I like the diversity of people living in the area.
#4 - Like the access to Kleinhans, Elmwood, downtown.
#5 - Yard for gardening (didn't do this year) close to stores, services.
#7 - I like the location because of its convenience to everything. I also like the history and
uniqueness of the architecture. It's a beautiful area.
#8 - I purchased my home because it was located in the preservation area of Buffalo, its close
proximity to Kleinhan's Music Hall, the Allentown/downtown business districts, the sporting
events (arena and baseball stadium) and waterfront, all of which are within easy walking or
commuting distance (depending on the time of year). I have been pleasantly surprised by the close
bond that my direct neighborhood has with each other...reminds me of living in the country.
#9 - Enjoyed the architecture, amenities, the house was a reasonable buy and I was committed
to the area.
#10 - Architecture, people, city living, artist community.
#11 - Houses mostly owner occupied, great neighbors and sense of family.
#12 - Area of historical and architectural significance; inexpensive housing; closeness to
downtown, shopping; gay area.
#13 - Living in the KCA area in the 1980s I had many fond memories and happy experiences,
so
I felt comfortable purchasing in area in 1994. The chief assets are the quality of housing, the
diverse, artful community and the proximity to downtown and cultural events. I also like the
pocket greenspace in the neighborhood (Symphony Circle, Days Park, Arlington Park, Orton
Gardens).
#14 - The neighborhood is culturally diverse with many people from alternative lifestyles.
People
show they are supportive and work together to help each other and those less fortunate.
#15 - Convenience, diversity.
#16 - Architectural significance of area, close to Canada, close to cultural events, easy to get to
work
#17 - I love it. Lots of homeowners who take pride in their properties, KCA and their
continuous efforts to keep the neighbors informed and promote this area in every which way
possible. Neighbors that care coupled with the preservation of beautiful homes and buildings
make this area of Buffalo unique and makes me proud of being a homeowner here.
3. What do you think are the biggest obstacles or challenges the neighborhood faces in the next 2
years?
#1 - Absentee landlords; deteriorating property.
#2 - We need to bring in quality neighbors. On my block alone there are 4-5 vacant houses.
The neighborhood allows for lower end rentals to come in with single moms and 4-5 children that
do nothing but play in the streets.
#3 - Maintaining the quality of housing stock in our area. Increase of rental units in the area
with owner not living on the premises.
#4 - Continued interest in restoring the neighborhood, keeping properties in good shape and
keeping owner occupied homes are vital to this area which is a link between the rest of the city
and downtown.
#8 - Continuing to fight vandalism/crime, traffic calming on major streets (Pennsylvania and
Hudson Sts. in particular), reducing the volume of non-resident foot traffic and attracting more
investors that want to become "owner occupants" of their properties.
#9 - Absentee landlords or landlords that don't maintain their property, are not careful with
regard to tenants they rent to, vacant housing. Schools are a concern as a neighborhood requires
good local schools to attract and keep families. If families find the neighborhood attractive and
livable it almost polices itself. The next 2 years will be difficult for the City until the financial
issues are resolved, but this will happen and the neighborhoods have the opportunity to effect that
out come.
#10 - Filling the boarded up houses with owners or tenants; keeping the neighborhood cleaner.
#11 - Decline of city services, costly replacement value and crime.
#12 - Destruction of existing homes; crime; lack of city services.
#13 - The area's strength of diversity is also sometimes its weakness. Petty crime and drug
dealing/using sometimes disenchants people from investing in the area. Encouraging residents and
absentee owners to continue to put their energies and dollars into the community will continue to
be challenging. Ensuring good community relations among the area's diverse population is
critical. Educational and employment training opportunities for the area's impoverished
population would help to give better opportunities and assist with neighborhood retention. The
neighborhood also needs a plan that is agreed to by residents and city planners.
#14 - Unfortunately the biggest obstacles facing the neighborhood involve the threat of theft. It
would be good to be able to feel one could have a garden or decorations on a porch. As soon as
one feels free to do so, someone walks off with property.
#15 - Decline of housing stock.
#16 - Keeping crime under control, keeping drugs out of neighborhood, absentee landlords,
abandoned homes, noise from waterfront concerts in the summer. Must improve education in the
city so that the working, middle class, tax paying families stay.
#17 - The issues Buffalo faces as a City, primarily the budgetary issues which affect all
neighborhoods. Keeping homeowners here and bringing additional homeowners to the immediate
neighborhood.
5. Do you presently have any problems or issues with Friends of Night People clients? If so, what
are they and how do Friends' clients impact your life?
#1 - I'm far enough away that I'm not impacted at all.
#2 - Friends of the night allows for people to drift in and out of the neighborhood, selling drugs
right in front of the house, approached my house several times while outside to buy gold, jewelry,
drugs, etc. Also discharging their bowel and urine on the streets or in between the vacant houses.
I've tried several times to have house party's or people visit and they simply are afraid because the
people line up outside hours before 5 and then after they eat stand outside in groups, trying to sell
drugs or approach and ask for money. Scouring through peoples garbage, throwing their garbage
in peoples lawns, hanging around on your porches, yards etc until FONP actually let them in.
#3 - No problem and no impact on where I live.
#4 - FONP is of concern because - to be honest - it brings down property values and I think the
folks standing around waiting for it to open are a bit scary looking to someone not from the
neighborhood.... the place has to be somewhere but a less residential area might be better......
#5 - Not affected...
#6 - I never feel safe walking down to Neitzsche's because the only times I have I've been
panhandled going by the FONP. Secondly, a day or two before Thanksgiving my sister-in-law
tried to call the FONP to ask them where to drop off a whole turkey and never got a response
from them so she gave the turkey to the City Mission. 3 days ago I called the FONP and left a
message telling them I had food for them and never got a response. So I called again the next day
leaving a message again. Several hours later I got a call back from a woman with the FONP and
told her I had a huge casserole made and a lot of canned goods. I asked her if I could drop it off
around 4 and she said sure no problem. I arrived there at 3 -45 and rang both the front and back
doorbells and never got an answer. There so nobody there. I left the casserole on the front steps
but not the canned goods. When I got home I called and left a message on their answering
machine telling them that they would never hear from me again and that I hoped a hungry dog or
cat got the food. I know that was a rather nasty response from me but I had been cooking for 2
hours and I was angry given the response I, and my family have gotten from them.
#7 - Since friends of the Night People moved here there seems to be more litter and more
undesirable people in the area. I noticed the change almost immediately.
#8 - The only problem I have is that on several occasions I have witnessed individuals parking
their vehicles on St. John's and Orton Pl and then walking to Friends of Night People for a "free"
meal when it is obvious that they really do not need it. I have had no problems or encounters with
those that truly do need this community based service.
#9 - "Friends" like feeding gulls, is a blight and a bad influence on its surroundings, kids,
visitors and neighbors. It would be more favorably located near to a public conveyance and a
hospital, like near the City Mission.
#10 - Loitering outside-before and after dinner; the building is a mess-always looks dirty; value
of my house.
#11 - Early line-up outside.....major traffic obstacle turning onto Wadsworth, Care/medical
van......MAJOR traffic obstacle.....(couldn't it be parked in RAPP lot across the street?) Obvious
NO SENSE or FEEL of neighborhood. Same problems and issues have been brought up over the
MANY years......with (sometimes) short term resolve. FONP have to understand that THEY are
in a residential neighborhood, and should act accordingly.
#12 - No.
#13 - People complain to me frequently about Friends of Night People, so most of my impact is
indirect. Often about 6PM I walk in the neighborhood with my dog and frequently go by Friends
of Night People. I have seen people loitering before 5PM, especially in the summertime
immediately around 394 Hudson Street. A monitor to supervise clients may alleviate this
problem.
#14 - I have no problem with Friends of Night People. I am working on a proposal for Crisis
Services and Action for Mental Health to hire two workers to assist with homeless and near
homeless people living around the Elmwood area. The more services available to people with
mental health issues the better. Our neighbors need to be educated on the needs of mentally ill
people and what might be good solutions for people. If anyone is interested in supporting such an
idea, please contact me, Steven Osterstrom, CSW at this e-mail address or 885-9563. Thanks.
#15 - No problems really... some of the annoying "give me 10 dollars to shovel etc etc.. " are
due to the clients of FNP probably.
#16 - No problems with FONP at moment... except still lining up early and creating a traffic
problem.
#17 - I have no direct problems with Friends of the Night People. I have referred individuals to
Friends of the Night with respect to a need for assistance stemming from a temporary set back of
some sort and Darren Strickland has gone out of his way to assist. I don't think I live close
enough for there to be an impact one way or another so I cannot comment.
#18 - It is nothing unheard of, nor should it be surprising, that a community will voice strong
objections about anyone or
anything, which might endanger their homes, families and neighborhood. It is therefore only
natural that the KCA was
most vocal when it came to the topic of the FONP (Friends of the Night People). In fact, it can be
said, that most of the
comments I read were in general support of the FONP, an affirmation of the diverse and open
minded, welcoming
philosophy of our community.
The crux of the issue is who has a stake at our community? Those who reside in the community,
or those who visit the
community once a day for a meal? The answer is obvious. Both groups have rights and
responsibilities. The visitors are
welcome, but must adhere to the norms of the community they are visiting, and the community
must be tolerant to the
visitors, while protecting their families, homes and community. However some of the concerns
expressed by the
community have nothing to do with tolerance, diversity, or any other New Age feel-good,
politically correct, buzz words
usually thrown into the mix.
While anyone and everyone is welcomed in our community, the FONP must consider the quality
of life issues in KC they
are directly impacting upon:
Littering; a simple solution. The FONP should place several large trash containers around their
mess hall, to be emptied
and maintained by the FONP on a daily basis. The containers can be beautified through artwork
(ie: the Elmwood
Avenue initiative) by the FONP. Concept: Get a free meal, clean up the neighborhood, and,
therefore by respecting our
community, become a part of it.
Loitering (and the associated evils). It is obvious and understood, that there will be a certain
amount of "standing
around" while waiting in line to be served. The associated evils are what make this form of
waiting - offensive loitering.
Drug dealing, drug use, disposal of drug paraphernalia (needles), violation of open container laws,
public urinating (on
private or city property), panhandling & "hustling," rowdiness and even an occasional
dispute/assault among fellow
diners. There is no reason why the FONP can't direct their clients to cease these activities, or be
uninvited to partake in
the daily meal. Should this approach fail, or fall on deaf ears, I could see the BPD visit the site on
a periodic basis - not
in a squad car - for visibility, - as this does obviously not work, but with one or two undercover
police officers, making
quality of life and drug arrests.
It is my true belief that our community will reach out to the support the FONP in many ways, yet
not even addressed, IF
the FONP reaches out to be a part of our community, sensitive to the needs of the less fortunate,
as well as those who
make it possible for them to have a safe and clean mess hall. I hope that the FONP and the KCA
will find common
grounds to improve the life of all.
5. Other comments?
#3 - I would love to see a number of traffic calming strategies implemented on my street and
surrounding streets.
#8 - Overall, I think that I, like most residents of this area, enjoy being a part of our
community...a bit diverse, close knit, hardworking individuals that want the best for their
neighborhood. There are times that things occur that at "the moment" are overwhelming and that
is when I've been fortunate in finding that my neighbors have been the most supportive and the
most valuable asset available to me. This is a GREAT neighborhood and we need to keep our
focus on keeping it moving in the right direction.
#10 - Would not live anywhere else in Buffalo-love Allentown.
Pennsylvania Street Light Standards Cleaned.
Special thanks to city of Buffalo employee Jim Zern for contacting Niagara Mohawk and directing
them to clean the light standards of Plymouth between Pennsylvania and Porter and on
Pennsylvania between West Avenue and Symphony Circle.
New Transport Sites to Enhance Surrounding Neighborhood.
Thanks to the cooperation of Kent Kleinman, Department Chair of the SUNAB/School of
Architecture and Planning, Professor Brad Wales, RA, Department Instructor and his students
(fall semester 2001 and spring semester 2002) have been working with the Kleinhans
neighborhood to develop 3 new transport sites. These sites will be constructed by Brad's students
during the upcoming semester and will be located in front of Kleinhans Music Hall on Porter
Avenue, on Plymouth Avenue at Porter Avenue, and on Plymouth Avenue at Pennsylvania Street.
Over the past few months the students submitted designs that were reviewed and accepted by the
neighbors who attended three public meetings. The purposes of these transport sites is to offer
some shelter for people who use public transportation, to provide an outlet for community and
transportation information, and to enhance and beautify the surrounding area. The designs are
eye catching because they are unique as well as functional. The Kleinhans community was
pleased and gratified by the commitment of Professor Wales and his students who spent countless
hours designing and redesigning the sites to adhere to specifications and standards for these types
of elements while being sensitive to blending the past and future in this historic neighborhood.
Erie County Legislator, Judith Fisher, has approved additional funding through a grant application
submitted under the District 4 Special Projects Fund. The award invests another $5,000 in the
planned "Community Transport Sites" to be located on Porter Avenue near the parking lot
entrance to Kleinhans Music Hall, on Plymouth Avenue near the corner of Pennsylvania Street
and on Plymouth Avenue at the corner of Porter Avenue. This brings the total amount
contributed to this project by Legislator Fisher to $15,000. Thanks to her support, this unique
public space improvement project can move forward.
In addition to government funding, private sector partnerships are also being formed. Seneca
Copy Center of Buffalo, TVGA Engineering of Elma, and the Alp Steel Corporation have
extended their support. Through Bill Miller of Alp Steel, a long-time tradition continues of
assisting projects undertaking by UB's architecture students. The vision and generosity of these
partners will ensure a successful outcome to this project. In this spirit, other local government,
organizations and businesses will be approached to partner with in-kind donations including such
items as rebar and stone, wood for framing, polyurethane coating, miscellaneous hardware,
concrete, pavers, glass panels, the removal of two diseased trees, planting of two replacement
trees, soil, grass seed, annuals and perennials, and shrubs. In addition, long term maintenance and
repair needs are being identified that will lead to the establishment of a special fund for this
purpose.
UB Students prepare mock-up of planned transport site on Porter Ave. outside of Kleinhans
Music Hall on 3/16/02.
SUNYAB School of Architecture and Planning Department Professor, Brad Wales, in
consultation with Department Chair, Kent Kleinman, has begun preparations for the construction
phase during this semester. Photos from the "Precedent Analysis" research report prepared by
Professor Wales' students, show transport site designs built in Switzerland and Germany. These
world class designs by award winning architects provided the inspiration for the site plans
produced by Professor Wales' fall 2001 class. The historic character of the surrounding areas of
these European designs is reminiscent of the historic character of the Kleinhans community.
Critical to this project is the guidance and cooperation needed from the City of Buffalo. Peter
Savage of Mayor's office, Niagara District Councilmember Dominic Bonifacio and his staff, and
David Granville, Director of the City of Buffalo Arts Commission are clarifying the steps that
must be taken to obtain needed approval from city departments. The NFTA has also provided
valuable expertise regarding important elements required for these transit sites to accommodate
buses.
Sincere appreciation is extended to all who are participating in this project. Also, for the input of
Gerald Strickland from Hamilton, Houston & Lownie during the design review phase which was
invaluable.
This project is being managed by a committee of the Pennsylvania/Plymouth Revitalization Project
(PPRP) and the Symphony Circle Steering Committee. Inquires may be made to Ann Angelo,
885-9503, Dan Greenway, 884-1374, Sue Byron 882-3887 or Tom Olszewski 884-4693. A
public meeting for this project will be held on Saturday, February 2, 2002, 10 -30AM at the
Karpeles Museum, 453 Porter Ave.
Donations for the project may be sent to PPRP, c/o 312 Pennsylvania Street, Buffalo, NY 14201.
Victorian House for Sale.
1879 Victorian for sale. In same family for over 75 years. Offstreet parking, full porch. Can be
used as single or double. Call 884-1914 for more information.
32 St. John's Place.
The Preservation Coalition of Erie County is trying hard to save the burned house at 32 St. John's
Place by featuring the house for sale on its website. The city will sell the house for $1 to anyone
willing to repair the house. Contact John Hannon, 851-4200 for more information, and check out
the web site featuring St. John's Place.
2001 Accomplishments.
The following are achievements of KCA neighbors in 2001:
-
Orton Gardens Improved in 2001 - Over $3,000 in supplies and over $4,000 in labor was
invested in the community garden at 20 Orton Place in 2001, transforming the site from a vacant
lot to a park-like ornamental and vegetable garden. Six vegetable beds were cultivated in 2001 by
neighbors and the beds will be increased from 6 to 9 in 2002. Funding was provided by Mayor
Masiello's Neighborhood Matching Fund, Grassroots Gardens of Buffalo and from private
donations. All labor was accomplished through the efforts of neighborhood volunteers.
-
KCA Participation in Garden Walk a Success - Thousands of garden fans visited the
KCA area during the last week of July, 2001 as the KCA area has become one of the most
popular destination addresses on the walk. The Garden Walk has allowed many people to
experience the neighborhood who have never done so before. As in years past, neighborhood
residents volunteered their time by operating an information table in front of the Coda Restaurant
and the KCA sponsored the cost of giving water to weary walkers.
-
Symphony Circle Restoration Nears Completion - In 2001 the Symphony Circle Steering
Committee was given the green light to restore the center island with its ornate light standard.
Citizens working with the City's Public Works Department have laid out plans for the restoration
of the island. The light standard is being manufactured by a local firm. A press conference
announcing plans was held in June and all work should be completed early in 2002.
-
KCA Awarded Mayor Masiello's Neighborhood Matching Fund Grant - In 2001 the
KCA was awarded a $2,000 grant to be used for flower planters and neighborhood welcome
signs. Look for these next spring!
-
KCA Led Preservation Coalition Fargo Estate Tour - In September 2001, the KCA led a
public walking tour of neighborhood structures. Residents even opened their antique homes to
curious seekers. It was a great outreach opportunity to teach the public the value of the
neighborhood as part of the Olmsted park system legacy.
-
Kleinhans Music Hall Improved - The reflecting pool in front of the music hall was
restored in Sept. 2001 after a several decade absence. Everyone is amazed at the beauty the pool
lends to both Kleinhans Music Hall and Symphony Circle. The BPO furthered their commitment
to Symphony Circle with their purchase of the Birge Mansion in 2001.
-
KCA Worked to Preserve Porter Avenue - Neighbors rallied together to successfully
fight the opening of a deli at the intersection of Porter and Normal and lobbied New York State to
fund the Porter Avenue Gateway Rehabilitation Project, both initiatives important to the
continued improvement and stability of Porter Ave.
-
Trees Planted in Neighborhood - Working with the Buffalo city forester in 2001, the
KCA facilitated the installation of over a dozen new trees planted in front of area homes.
-
Area Homes Continue to Attract Homeowners and Inspire Private Investment - In 2001,
43 Plymouth was converted to a private garden, 289 Pennsylvania was changed from a vacant
house into a rehabbed owner-occupied dwelling, 367 Pennsylvania changed from a vacant HUD
house to an occupied dwelling, 365 Pennsylvania received a landscaping facelift, 32 Plymouth
Ave. was improved, 82 Plymouth received significant improvements and upgrades, 26 Orton sold
to a neighborhood resident who rented in the area, preserving its status as owner-occupied, 22
Orton was sold to a neighborhood resident for rehab, 16 Orton continued to be restored and
renovated, 96 Plymouth was sold and changed from an absentee owned property to an owner
occupied building, 43 Wadsworth sold to an owner-occupant, 330 Hudson was sold and changed
from an absentee owned property to an owner-occupied house and 287 and 298 Jersey sold to
owner-occupants. Significant investments were made at 5 St. John's with a new paint job, 329
Pennsylvania had its detailed Victorian wrap-around porch restored, 329 Hudson received a
beautiful paint job and 18 Plymouth received significant repairs and upgrades. Finally, the owner
of 38 Orton received a 2001 Buffalo Landmark and Preservation Board award, recognizing the
restoration work that had been done to the property.