basic information table of contents - government of …apparatus from around new york state in 2015...

Village of Lancaster Central Business District

WNY Downtown Revitalization Initiative

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BASIC INFORMATION

Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) Region: Western New York

Municipality Name: Village of Lancaster

Downtown Name: Central Business District

County Name: Erie County

TABLE OF CONTENTS Vision for Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Justification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Boundaries of the Proposed DRI Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Description of Catchment Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Past Investment, Future Investment Potential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Recent or Impending Job Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Attractiveness of Physical Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

Quality of Life Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Public Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Project List to Demonstrate Readiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Administrative Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Other . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30



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Vision for Downtown The Village of Lancaster envisions their Central Business District (CBD) as a vibrant, thriving destination

for residents and visitors to “Shop. Stroll. Stay.” Revitalization of the CBD will include new businesses,

housing units, gathering spaces, and expanded cultural attractions which will expand the economic growth

of the Village, surrounding municipalities, and all of Erie County, furthering the strategic vision of the

WNY REDC. DRI project investments include development of new, affordable housing and business/retail

space, implementation of transportation improvements accessible to all ages and ability levels, and

enhanced cultural and recreational opportunities to address current and future needs of their diverse

community. The revitalization of the CBD will accelerate and multiply the efforts underway in the Village

and contribute to the growth of a healthy, stimulating, and diverse downtown for all.

JUSTIFICATION

Incorporated in 1849 from part of the Town of Lancaster, The Village of Lancaster is the third oldest

incorporated village in Erie County. Centrally located within Erie County, the Village is in close proximity

to the City of Buffalo, the Buffalo-Niagara Medical Campus, the region’s many colleges and universities,

and a ten-minute drive from the Buffalo/Niagara International Airport. The Lancaster Central School

District is consistently ranked as one of

the best school districts in the region,

producing top achievers in all areas of

academics. The approximately 500

graduates each year provide a steady

influx of young adults, many of whom

would like to stay, play, and work in

Western New York.

The Village of Lancaster Central

Business District (CBD) is

approximately 10 acres in area and

includes two National Historic Districts

– the Broadway Historic District and

the Central Historic District –

containing both public and privately

owned buildings. Although rich in history, the twentieth century saw a decline in the CBD with the advent

of urban renewal in the early 1970s. West Main Street, once a significant business location, was demolished,

resulting in a loss of tax revenue, retail and business space, and economic opportunity.

Over the past five years, community members, in conjunction with municipal leaders, have begun actively

planning to revitalize the CBD. Village businesses have invested funds in expansion, creating new jobs and

shopping opportunities (https://www.downtownlancasterny.com/). Municipal leaders have thoughtfully

pursued avenues for opportunity, completing feasibility studies and plans which have brought the entire

community together with the goal of re-establishing, re-strengthening, and revitalizing the CBD.

With energy to make dreams a reality and plans in hand for immediate, shovel-ready projects, the Village

of Lancaster is only lacking the working capital needed to spur the additional private investment from

developers and residents to create a transformation in the CBD. The identified DRI projects will have a

direct and substantial impact on all Village residents, as well as the residents of the neighboring Town of

Lancaster and Village of Depew. Revitalization of the CBD will make the Village of Lancaster the ideal

location for people of all ages and abilities to “Shop. Stroll. Stay.”

https://www.downtownlancasterny.com/



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Boundaries of the Proposed DRI Area

The Village of Lancaster Central Business District (CBD) is approximately

10 acres in area and is bordered on the north by St. Joseph Street, to the east

by Central Avenue, to the south by Broadway, and to the west by Aurora

Street. Centrally located for residents of both the Village and the Town of

Lancaster, the CBD also serves as the primary downtown location for the

Village of Depew, whose eastern half is located within the Town of

Lancaster adjacent to the Village of Lancaster.

The photo below depicts the Village of Lancaster Central Business District.

Another map showing the CBD, as well as the Historic Districts, is

included in the Appendix.

The CBD is zoned as

a mixed-use district,

with four subzones:

Traditional CBD;

New Development;

Open Space; and High

Rise. The Traditional

CBD is the core of

downtown, with

regulations to protect

the character and

economic viability of

the historic spaces.

The CBD New

Development Zone

encompasses the

property west of the

core downtown,

which includes 4½

available acres of

unused/underutilized

space. Current

regulations support

the redevelopment of

this area with mixed-

use buildings in a

manner that supports

and enhances the

existing downtown

businesses. The CBD Open Space Zone is a small area along Cayuga Creek designated for passive

recreation. The CBD High Rise Zone permits high-rise apartment buildings. Projects incorporating DRI

funds will benefit each of these subzones, as well as the surrounding neighborhoods and municipalities.



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Description of Catchment Area

The Village of Lancaster, with an area of 2.7 square miles, is home to 10,352 residents. The surrounding

Town of Lancaster has 41,604 residents, while the adjacent Village of Depew has a population of 15,303.

The Lancaster CBD serves as the downtown business area for all of these municipalities. With an

immediate catchment area of more than 67,000 people, the CBD is sufficiently large enough to serve as

a year-round downtown destination.

The Village is centrally located within Erie County. Over 800,000 people live within fifteen miles of the

Village, providing a sizeable existing population to serve as the audience for one of the many cultural,

entertainment, and recreational events held in the CBD each year. Because it is one of the few communities

in this part of the county to have a defined, walkable downtown, revitalization of the CBD can make it the

prime downtown location for residents from other nearby towns, such as Alden and Elma, who lack the

amenities and offerings in the Village of Lancaster.

Between 1980 and 2015, Erie County saw an approximately 9% population decline. However, the Town of

Lancaster grew by 41% between 1980 and 2015, making it one of Erie County’s fastest growing towns.

Between the 2000 and 2010 census, the Town of Lancaster

experienced a 6% population growth, with growth of more

than 4% between 2010 and 2017, largely due to new housing

construction. This is expected to continue. John Manns,

executive vice president of sales and marketing for Marrano

Homes, stated that “the centrally located Town of Lancaster

is one of Marrano’s healthiest markets.” That opinion was

supported by Melissa Colletti of Hunt Real Estate, who noted

that clients were drawn to the area because of homes in various

price ranges and the strong school district. (Buffalo News,

“Clarence, Lancaster, Elma set the pace for county population

growth,” May 25, 2018)

Compared to the new developments in the Town, the Village

housing stock is older, and there has been little new housing

development intended to increase the Village population.

Newer renovations to existing downtown buildings created

apartments on upper floors. DRI funds to spur the development

of more substantial mixed-use business/retail/apartment space

will provide new, affordable housing options, as well as

motivate other downtown business owners to redevelop and repurpose unused and underused second floor

building space in the CBD.

Although the Village has easy access to major transportation routes for car, bus, and air, walkability and

bikeability are a priority for the Village. Downtown living in a walkable community near to all major

amenities, but retaining an historic, small town feel, is attractive to young professionals. It is anticipated

that revitalization of the CBD with the assistance of DRI funds will lead to positive population growth in

the Village by the 2020 census, as people are drawn to the new dwelling and employment opportunities.



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The Lancaster Opera House, a historic performing arts and

community center, brings 30,000 guests each year to the Village of

Lancaster through its diverse programming of musicals, plays,

concerts, children’s shows, and special events, while providing

employment and volunteer opportunities for more than 300 local

and regional artists (actors, musicians, directors, designers, and

technicians). The Opera House, which also houses the municipal

offices for the Town of Lancaster, can be rented for public and

private gatherings, such as meetings, weddings, and other

ceremonies. In conjunction with the UB College of Arts and

Sciences Department of Sociology, the Opera House will present a

free community film series, “From Personal Troubles to Public

Issues,” during Fall 2018. Anticipated as the first of many such

collaborations, the series will address issues related to current

societal struggles, with the intent of fostering community dialogue

on ways to work together.

Each year special events hosted in the CBD

attract over 100,000 residents and visitors to

the Village. Scheduled monthly events make

it a year-round destination for family-friendly

entertainment and experiences. These events

capitalize on the seasons, and include the

Village Garden Walk, Taste of Lancaster,

Fourth of July parade and rides, Tree

Lighting, and Christmasville, with

seasonally-appropriate window displays in

local businesses and an accompanying Fire

Truck Parade, which featured over 100 fire

apparatus from around New York State in

2015 and drew thousands of visitors. A summer highlight is Thursdays in the Village, where food trucks,

sidewalk sales, and musical entertainment cover the sidewalks of the CBD, delighting residents and visitors.

New, unique businesses are also drawing visitors

to the CBD. For example, Dark Forest Chocolate

Makers, located at the heart of the CBD, is

Western New York’s first “bean-to-bar”

chocolate maker, crafting vegan and soy- and nut-

free chocolate from the highest quality organic

cacao beans, organic sugar, and all-natural

ingredients. DRI funding for new mixed-use

construction near this existing business will

capitalize on the existing success of Dark Forest

Chocolate and build value for the entire

downtown sector.



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Past Investment, Future Investment Potential

Since 1998, the Village of Lancaster has prioritized the redevelopment of the CBD. The financial

considerations accompanying the revitalization process have been costly, and the Village has actively

pursued grant opportunities to accomplish many CBD – and Village-wide – initiatives. Since 2011, the

Village of Lancaster has invested over $2,636,000 in CBD revitalization projects. These efforts, partially

tabulated below, have included demolition of an outdated, unused building to create new, shovel-ready

acreage for new construction; renovation of building façades and streetscape design to create a more unified,

appealing CBD; and efforts to improve infrastructure to accommodate the anticipated growth.

Perhaps most importantly, the Village has strategically planned for future success, updating the Joint

Comprehensive Plan with the Town of Lancaster and Village of Depew, undertaking an economic

feasibility study to determine the best possible uses for an underused land parcel, and beginning the process

of planning to mitigate hazards such as flooding during extreme weather events.

Thoughtful use of time, money, and resources have led to significant positive impact on the economic

development of the Village. The Village of Lancaster is well-prepared to use the DRI funding to support

projects which will catalyze future growth.

Project Project Cost State and Federal Funding Village

Contribution

Demolition of former BOCES building,

11 W. Main Street (2011)

$898,017 $650,000 HUD award $248,017

Façade & building renovation (2013) $100,000 $100,000 NYMS award $0*

Sidewalk remediation, signage, and

safety measures (2014)

$526,560 $328,382 NYSDOT

Transportation Alternatives

Program

$198,178

Streetscape Improvements to West Main

Street (2014)

$295,085 $200,000 Senator

Gallivan/DASNY

$95,085

Mediate sanitary sewer issues (2015) $315,500 $100,000 NYS DEC

Engineering Planning Grant

$215,500

Historical Markers designating Central

and Broadway Historic Districts

$2,188 Pomeroy Foundation $0

Destruction of foundation, 11 W. Main

Street (2016)

$200,621 $160,502 - Restore NY

Communities Initiative

$40,125

Vision, marketing, and tactical plan as

catalyst for revitalization of the CBD

(2016)

$89,250 $40,000 - Empire State

Development - Economic

Strategic Planning &

Feasibility Study

$49,250

Mediate sanitary sewer issues and

discharge into Cayuga Creek (2017)

$70,000 $56,000 NYS DEC

Engineering Planning Grant

$14,000

Vulnerability Needs Assessment

addressing extreme weather

preparedness (2017)

$44,000 $22,000 Climate Smart

Communities

$22,000

West Main Street power supply (2018) $95,000 $83,100 Senator

Gallivan/DASNY

$11,900

* Private funds from individual business owners used as match



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In addition to the investments of public funds outlined

above, since 2015, over $850,000 in private funds

has been invested in the CBD. These funds include

renovations to building facilities and upgrades to

external façades.

The Bloomsbury Lane Toy Shoppe, 1 West Main Street, was

one of the buildings which benefited from façade and building

renovation using New York Main Street grant funds and private

matching funds. Located on the corner of Central Avenue and

West Main Street, the renovation to the façade – including

repainting and repointing the brickwork – maintained the

historic nature of the building while providing modern updates

and has provided a model for other businesses in the CBD.

The 3-story building at 4 W. Main Street, located across from the Toy Shoppe, is another success story.

Part of the Central Avenue Historic district, the building was originally built in 1895. The front of the

building is being restored, including signage, angled left entrance, windows, and restored brick façade. The

original “sky light/ tray ceiling” and original bead board were also brought back and refinished. Internal

improvements were made on all three stories, including HVAC, electrical and plumbing, as well as new

flooring, demolition, and rebuild to

create a renovated mixed-use building

with new housing and space for retail.

The opening of the Gilded Maple

boutique store in the first floor of this

space is anticipated for June 2018.

To complement the private

investment, the West Main Street

Streetscape Project, partially funded

through Senator Gallivan’s office and

completed in 2016, rehabilitated the

business district with new

cobblestone-look wider sidewalks to

create safer pedestrian areas, marble

curbs, and historic lighting.

Additionally, new landscaping and

seating areas were created.

Property Investments 1 West Main Street Bloomsbury Toy Shoppe

$98,550 (2016)

4 West Main Street (rehab of all three stories)

$353,416 (2018)

6 West Main Street Lancaster Fire Museum

$5,000 (2015)

11 Main Street Lily Belle Meade

$5,500 (2018)

12 West Main Street Performance Advantage Company

$125,224 (2015)

43 Central Ave

Ambitious Enterprises

$278,246 (2016)

60 Central Ave

Rite Aid

$27,000 (2017)



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Renovation of the buildings is just the beginning of

recent private investments in the CBD. Since 2013,

the CBD has seen the opening of nine enterprises,

including services, housing, cultural space, and

culinary businesses. The CBD anticipates additional

soon-to-open shops which will fill shopping, service,

and eating needs for Village residents and visitors.

Along with the highly visible improvements and the private investments of small business owners, the

Village has made a number of significant investments to improve public infrastructure. In 2015, the

Village was awarded a NYSDOT Transportation Alternatives Program Grant to install high-visibility

crosswalks with audible signals at major pedestrian intersections, place speed signs near schools, and repair

sidewalks and curbing on the major downtown thoroughfare, increasing downtown walkability and

reducing greenhouse gas emissions. There have been two NYS DEC Engineering Planning Grants to study

and make recommendations for mitigation of sanitary sewer overflows and drainage into Cayuga Creek.

As a result of those studies, the Village is pursuing a 2018 WQIP grant for implementation of the

recommendations.

The Village of Lancaster is one of six municipalities in Erie County identified as a registered Climate

Smart Community. In 2017 the Village received a NYS DEC Climate Smart Communities Grant to conduct

a Vulnerability Assessment. This assessment, currently in progress, will provide recommendations for

measures to address extreme weather events of extreme snowfall and flooding.

OPENING SOON 4 West Main Street The Gilded Maple

Home Décor boutique

Opening June 2018

50 Central Avenue Skoob’s Village Grille

Restaurant Opening July 2018

30 Central Avenue The 3 Dog Barber

Barbershop Opening soon

34 Central Avenue Happy Cakes

Bakery and Cafe

Opening June 2018

318 Central Avenue The Village Scoop

Ice Cream Opening June 2018

Business Year of Opening

31 Central Avenue Cayuga Flow Yoga & Ayurvedic

2017

41 Central Avenue Tech Net

2013

43 Central Ave Ambitious Enterprises

2016-17 apartments

63 Central Avenue Wilde Art Auto Detailing

2014

85 Central Avenue Simply Italiano

2014

6 West Main Street Lancaster Fire Museum

2013

11 West Main Street Dark Forest Chocolate

2015

11 West Main Street Lily Belle Meade

2018

11 West Main Street Furry Friends Holistic Pet Spa

2016



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Perhaps the most significant investment has

occurred at the end of West Main Street

(retaining wall and elevation shown at left),

which has been transformed from a sad

reminder of the failure of urban renewal

into a centrally-located, shovel-ready site

intended to serve as the cornerstone for the

next phase of CBD revitalization. Funding

from state, federal, and local sources led to

the demolition of previous outdated

structures, as well as helped pay for

planning to re-envision the space for use

today, tomorrow, and far into the future.

A view of the retaining wall at the foot

of West Main Street from the other

direction (pictured at right) shows

space which is now used as an

oversized parking lot. This prime real-

estate at the heart of the Central

Business District is ready for

development and the next chapter in

the Village of Lancaster’s proud

history.

With input from community stakeholders, including residents, small business owners, manufacturing and

industry representatives, and educational personnel, the Village of Lancaster DRI application represents the

community dream for village rebirth where everyone is encouraged to “Shop. Stroll. Stay.”



Page | 10

FUTURE INVESTMENT

Positive evidence of recent private investment in

small business, the engine of economic growth, is

contradicted by areas of unused or underutilized

potential, such as the vacant storefront pictured to

the right. The Village of Lancaster has identified

specific activities which have the potential to

transform the CBD with funding from the DRI.

Using these targeted projects, the Village will

encourage development of businesses and

activities to create a vibrant downtown with night

life, year-round activities, and shopping and

residential space for residents of all ages and

interests.

The proposed projects include mixed-use development, improvements in transportation infrastructure,

increasing environmental sustainability and

resilience, and improving the quality of life and

employment opportunities for both current and

future residents, as well as visitors.

New Development on West Main Street

From the earliest days of the Village until its

destruction in the 1970s as part of the urban

renewal movement, West Main Street was a

primary thoroughfare lined with shops and

businesses, as shown in the accompanying

picture from the 1950s.

Now, the street dead ends suddenly.

Lack of connectivity with Aurora Street

(located in front of the water tower

shown in the picture) hampers traffic

flow to the shops which still exist along

West Main and promotes a feeling of

emptiness, instead of contributing a

fully-connected, vibrant downtown

district.



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The currently underused parcel of land located at the foot of West

Main Street offers the opportunity for transformational

development at the center of the CBD. As part of a 2017 economic

development feasibility study, LaBella Associates determined the

Village has the opportunity for significant mixed-use

development, including apartment and retail/business space, with

as many as six new two- and four-story buildings, concomitant

parking, and appropriate landscaping. Creation of new buildings,

housing, and green space in the heart of downtown will not only

physically transform the community, it will serve as a catalyst for

further development downtown and throughout the surrounding

neighborhoods. This new development will also open the

possibility for businesses such as a brew pub, restaurant, or coffee

house, all of which have been mentioned as desirable by residents

in recent community discussions and public surveys. DRI funding

will be used for the initial phases of this transformational four-

phase development.

The Community Development Corporation of the Village of

Lancaster is in the process of selling this 4 ½-acre parcel to a

proven local developer who shares the community’s vision and

wants to be part of the rebirth of the Lancaster Central Business

District. His plans include the modern elements and amenities the community seeks, while maintaining the

historic appeal which is important to the community’s spirit.

“…now we are seeing change

happening again and the Village of

Lancaster is poised to be a part of it. …

The Village of Lancaster Downtown

Revitalization Initiative will encourage

retailers and businesses to be a part of

the vibrant and diverse Central

Business District and to support the

wishes of our Lancaster residents and

friends – our ‘Lancaster family’. When

this happens, Lancaster will once again

be a center of shopping and gathering

for years to come.”

James Allein, President,

Community Development Corporation



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New and Complete Streets at the Village Center

To facilitate transportation to and around the development proposed for West Main Street, two new streets

are needed. The prospective developer of the site is proposing to deed the property for these streets over to

the Village, with the Village assuming the responsibility of constructing and maintaining the new streets.

Proposed new streets:

These new streets will feature sidewalks and landscaping consistent with the practices already used in the

Central Business District. Construction of these streets will ease current traffic concerns surrounding the

downtown area and enable pedestrians, including the residents of nearby neighborhoods, to walk and bike

safely to shops, eateries, and park space. The Village of Lancaster is committed to working with our

developers to create a successful plan to address the anticipated traffic flow accompanying new

development.

Major transportation improvements require coordination with numerous local and state departments. The

Village has had positive conversations with those who would be responsible for approval moving forward

and feels confident that the construction of new streets and roundabouts on Pleasant Avenue will not only

alleviate current traffic impediments, but will contribute positively to the reduction of greenhouse gas

emissions and pedestrian/bicycle safety in the Village.

Village owned property



Page | 13

Improved Traffic Flow and Reduction of Greenhouse Gases

Following recommendations from an economic feasibility study by LaBella Associates, the Village of

Lancaster will implement measures to improve traffic flow through the CBD by replacing two traffic lights

– one at the corner of

Central Avenue and

Pleasant Avenue and one at

the corner of Pleasant

Avenue and Aurora Street –

with two roundabouts.

Currently both locations

have street lights, which

often cause traffic backups

down Central Avenue.

These roundabouts will save the Village money for maintenance and

electricity, as well as improve pedestrian safety in the CBD. In conjunction

with this construction, West Pleasant will be narrowed, and parallel street

parking added.

The $3,392,000 total

project cost includes

paving (733 feet between

intersections, 500-foot

circumference around

roundabouts, and 100 feet

for each approach), curbs,

sidewalks, brick medians,

and truck aprons, pavement

markings and signage, drainage, roadside lighting, landscaping, and minor relocation of utilities.

The Village is pursuing partial funding for construction of these roundabouts through the NYSDOT

Transportation Alternatives Program grant (2018), with DRI funding used to supplement completion.

Current Map

Proposed Design



Page | 14

Greenspace and Green Infrastructure

Cayuga Creek, which runs through the

CBD, is a major asset in the Village of

Lancaster. To provide desirable green

space, the Village of Lancaster will create

Cayuga Creek Park on land currently zoned

for passive recreation. This space will

include approximately 1,370 feet of paved

trail along the creek, which will connect

pedestrians and bicyclists to other

sidewalks and trails leading around and

through the Village, including through the

new development along West Main Street.

The trail and park space will be landscaped

and lit, with signage, trail and road

markings, and crosswalks.

A portion of this land is in a designated flood zone. The Village will incorporate “green infrastructure” such

as rain gardens and permeable paving, to absorb rainfall and reduce flooding. Creation of a natural land

buffer will protect the new and existing development, as well as provide a small place to relax and enjoy

the natural beauty of Lancaster.

Cayuga Landing

Cayuga Creek Park will be complemented by the development of Cayuga

Landing, a multi-story facility on a

nearby parcel of land overlooking

Cayuga Creek in the heart of the

Village. The Village has a

developer interested in

transforming this vacant property

into new business/retail/eating

space, which could include an

upper-level terrace that would

house a roof-top patio for outdoor

eating and drinking. Proposed

lower-level parking would

accommodate parking needs for

both CBD residents and visitors

without encroaching on street-

level space for retail, restaurant,

and business service spaces. These

ideas have been mentioned as

desirable by Village residents in

recent community discussions.



Page | 15

Central Avenue Bicycle Lanes

To enhance the value of the road improvements outlined above, the Village will provide additional bicycle

lanes and clearer road markings along Central Avenue. These changes will immediately improve the

bikeability of the Village, as well as create the possibility for future connection to the Heritage Trail and

connections to trails outside of Lancaster. The Village will use Erie County CDBG Smart Growth Grant

funds (application June 2018) for this construction.

Wayfaring Signage

Through thoughtful, strategic placement of wayfaring signs, the Village will improve access to and

awareness of the businesses, services, and other amenities offered in the Central Business District. The

boundaries of the CBD were recently slightly expanded to incorporate and capitalize on the growth

occurring in the area. This growth includes an additional block of retail and service providers on Central

Avenue who were not present when the streetscape and sidewalk renovations were done several years ago.

The addition of wayfaring signage will enable this additional block to be visually linked to the upper portion

of the CBD and provide visitors with guidance in accessing the variety of unique businesses within an

expanded and redesigned CBD, drawing attention up and down Central Avenue.

The Village is justifiably proud of its historic buildings, as well as of the promise of new economic

development and creation of additional, affordable housing. To improve the quality of life for both existing

and new residents, the Village will invest in numerous projects which contribute to a healthier, cleaner,

greener community.

Electric Charging Stations

As part of their intent to become a certified Climate

Smart Community and to encourage residents and

visitors to respect the environment, the Village will

establish a dual charging station for electric vehicles.

NYSERDA has indicated that the transportation sector

is responsible for 28% of total greenhouse gas emissions

(GHG) in the United States and 39% of emissions in

NYS. In Lancaster, the TOPS distribution center has

already moved to clean-burning natural gas in their

trucks to reduce GHG. At the end of 2014, approximately 12,000 electric vehicles were on the road, and

1,000 public and workplace charging stations were available in NYS. To meet NYS goals, the state needs

7,000 EVs per year for the next four years, and 500 public charging stations per year over that same period.

Erie County is one of the NYS counties with a higher density of electric vehicles. A dual charging station

will encourage drivers of those vehicles – who often have other interests which coincide with the historic,

small business nature of the Village CBD – to “Shop. Stroll. Stay.” during the approximately one-hour

charging time needed with a Level 2 charger (240 volt). A dual charging station will enable two cars to

charge simultaneously. The facility is intended for implementation in the new development, serving as an

additional enticement for young professionals and millennials who have demonstrated interest in

preservation of the environment.

The Village has explored the costs of electric vehicle charging stations, including possible attachments,

software, and warranties. A specific site will be identified in conjunction with the broader construction

efforts at West Main Street and Cayuga Landing. It is possible that the best site for public use may be

located in the parking lot of the municipal offices. All options will be considered in conjunction with the



Page | 16

DRI consultant. The influx of funds from the DRI will be matched by funding and in-kind services

provided by the Village.

LED Street Lights

Investment in long-lasting and efficient LED street lights will also cut down on GHG. Not only will

installation of LED lights throughout the Village provide better lighting to enhance safety for residents and

visitors, it will reduce municipal electricity costs, saving residents money and enabling the Village to use

those funds for further investment in economic development and improvements to the quality of life.

Lancaster Opera House Expansion ~ New Vestibule

Located in the heart of the Village of

Lancaster, the Lancaster Opera House is

one of the region’s cultural treasures and a

reminder of an early American tradition

when multi-functional halls were often

called “Opera Houses,” whether or not

opera was, in fact, performed. The

Lancaster Opera House, designed by

George J. Metzger, is one of only a few

such Town Hall Opera Houses left in the

country. In the Fall of 1987, the basement

and first floors, which house the municipal

offices of the Town of Lancaster, were

renovated. The Opera House received a

prestigious Pewter Plate award from the

Landmark Society of the Niagara Frontier

for outstanding renovation and operations

of a historic venue.

Various production companies produce and present plays, musicals, dinner theater, and concerts in this

venue. The Opera House can also be rented for public and private gatherings such as meetings, weddings,

and other ceremonies.

To enhance the ability to hold events and draw a larger clientele with pre- and post-event occurrences, the

Opera House intends to renovate current internal space and create a vestibule that will serve as a lobby and

reception area. The cost estimates and architectural renderings feature a movable wall to increase the

potential size of the space and to offer different performance options. Opera House management has

demonstrated effectiveness in collaboration with numerous regional partners, and the addition of a new

vestibule will lead to further collaborations and enhanced cultural offerings.

DRI funds will provide the foundation for a fundraising campaign, which will attract local sponsors and

donors for the final construction and completion of the project.

Healthy, Fresh, and Seasonal Food

The Village of Lancaster CBD is home to the Save-a-Lot food store, located in close proximity to the

Village’s Senior Apartment complex and necessary for the seniors and others with limited transportation

and financial means. Bringing additional fresh, healthy, and seasonal food options to the downtown area



Page | 17

would serve as a means of attracting families and young professionals, who are looking for a more modern

lifestyle. To accommodate these desires, which would benefit everyone in the Village, the development of

a Downtown Farmer’s Market and/or Community Garden is being explored for the CBD. As a temporary

means of addressing this concern, the Village is considering incorporating a Farmer’s Market or produce

stand from a local country market into the Thursdays in the Village, which occur every Thursday during

the summer months.

Develop a Comprehensive Trail System

The Lancaster Heritage Trail, a paved trail accessible for pedestrian or bicycle traffic, begins on Walter

Winter Drive in the Village and extends four miles through the Town of Lancaster to Ransom Road. Public

parking lots are located at both entrances.

Trailhead

Trail

Extension



Page | 18

The Village will extend the existing trail to create a comprehensive trail system within the Village, linking

parks and other destinations, and making the CBD easily and safely accessible by foot or bicycle from

points east of the Village. Funding for this extension will be requested from the NYS Recreational Trails

Program (RTP) (NYS Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation), and supplemented with DRI

funds.

As part of the comprehensive trail system, the Village will establish a trailhead at Fireman’s Park, near the

Village’s iconic water tower and within close proximity to the proposed Cayuga Creek Park and Cayuga

Landing. At the trailhead will be a map of the Lancaster trail system and rental bike racks.

Improve Multi-Modal Transportation

The presence of seven (7) NFTA-Metro bus stops along Central

Avenue from Broadway to Walden Avenue is a positive attribute for

the Village, ensuring that visitors and residents have easy access to the

CBD, as well as to other regional destinations, such as the Buffalo-

Niagara airport or downtown Buffalo. However, these bus stops are not as readily accessible to those in the

community who have disabilities or who are unable to wait outside during the winter. To make regional

transportation more accessible to all, the Village is applying for Erie County CDBG Smart Growth Grant

funds (June 2018) to provide climate and ADA improvements to these bus stops, including curb side and

pedestrian access, as well as protective measures against extreme weather.

Using DRI funds, the Village of Lancaster will

make further improvements by designating the

NFTA stop at Broadway and Central (near the

Lancaster Opera House) as the “Gateway Bus

Stop” for the Village. In addition to enclosure

and accessible design similar to the illustrated

model at left, this stop will include a welcome

map listing all CBD retail shops and

restaurants.

By developing a sustainable, resilient

community for years to come, the Village will

be the best stewards of DRI funding used to

complement current efforts to improve transportation access within the Village. To further this endeavor,

the Village is already discussing long-term transportation projects designed to enhance the quality of life

and increase employment opportunities for Village residents. Two of these projects, outlined below, reflect

both community interest and the possibility for greater mobility for people throughout Western New York,

with benefits beyond the Village CBD boundaries.

NFTA-Metro Bus Route Extension

While fortunate to have access to good roads and bus stops along Central, there remains a transportation

gap for workers seeking to travel to multiple sites of current and proposed employment along both Walden



Page | 19

Avenue and Broadway. These

sites, which include the Amazon

Distribution Center and The

Greenfields Continuing Care

Community, the two largest

Lancaster-area major employers,

do not have direct bus service,

limiting the employment options

for Village residents, as well as

creating employee needs for the

businesses.

To address the situation, the

Village of Lancaster, Lancaster

Chamber of Commerce, and

NFTA have discussed the

extension of the current NFTA-

Metro bus service to include the

Amazon Distribution Center and

The Greenfields Continuing Care

Community, the two largest

Lancaster-area major employers. Expansion of the bus route (shown with a red line on the map) would

enable potential employees to board the NFTA-Metro service along Central Avenue and commute to work.

This project would provide current unemployed or underemployed workers who lack a car with another

opportunity to gain employment, as well as promote a cleaner, greener transportation system for all riders,

reducing greenhouse gas emissions from single car transportation. Having an extended transportation route

will also enable the Village and Chamber of Commerce to recruit new employees with the benefit of public

transportation.

Amtrak Extension

The Village of Lancaster will pursue a project to extend Amtrak rail service, which currently ends at the

station in Depew, to a new station located in the Village of

Lancaster. This extension will enhance local transportation

options for the region and create opportunities for Buffalo

residents to work, as well as “Shop. Stroll. Stay,” in the

Village of Lancaster.

The Greenfields

Continuing Care

Community

Amazon

Distribution

Center

Current Bus Stops

Current Bus Stops

Proposed

Amtrak Site



Page | 20

Recent or impending job growth

In addition to an influx of families to the Lancaster area during the last two decades, businesses have also

chosen to move to or expand in this conveniently located suburb of Buffalo. Located within 5 miles of the

Buffalo-Niagara International Airport, the NYS Thruway, the Depew train depot, and Transit Road, the

Village is an attractive location for businesses looking for convenient access to all major transportation,

shipping, and distribution hubs in Erie County.

One of the premiere small businesses in

the Village is the Performance Advantage

Company (PAC). Established in 1992,

PAC is a privately-owned company that

manufactures and markets high quality

tool mounting brackets. PAC’s primary

market is the Fire Industry providing

specialty tool mount solutions for fire

apparatus. In 2017 Vice-President Mike

Pence visited PAC, speaking to about 75

invited small business owners for

approximately 40 minutes on the benefits

of the first major overhaul of the nation’s

tax code in over 30 years.

As indicated previously, the streets of the Village CBD contain a number of retail establishments, eateries,

and small businesses like PAC. The impact of these companies on the Village is significant, although many,

like PAC, have or are developing economic impact beyond Village boundaries through marketing and web-

based services. This is true of Manitoba

Corporation, located in the manufacturing district,

just outside the CBD footprint. Manitoba, founded

in Buffalo in 1916, is a national figure in steel and

metal recycling, with another location in St. Louis,

MO, in addition to the headquarters in Lancaster.

Since the Village formally adopted its downtown

revitalization strategy in 1998, the area has seen the

addition of more than 2,000 jobs across all business

sectors. The presence of a manufacturing district

and an industrial park within the Village boundaries

affords the municipality flexibility in attracting and

retaining a variety of employment opportunities.

The Lancaster Industrial Park, a 52-acre site on

Commerce Parkway (off of Central Avenue between Walden Avenue and Broadway), is located adjacent

to the CBD boundaries, with one- to nine-acre, fully improved sites available. The Lancaster Area Chamber

of Commerce actively works to recruit new industry to this site. Newly enhanced transportation access,

obtained with the assistance of DRI funds, will provide a strong incentive for new industry to move to the

Industrial Park.

The Lancaster IDA, headquartered in the adjacent Town of Lancaster and within the CBD catchment area,

offers additional possibilities for attracting business to the area. The IDA has three business and commerce



Page | 21

centers, including a 120-acre Certified Shovel Ready site in the

Town with utility and road infrastructure in place; a space of more

than 300 acres, also in the Town, which is in the engineering and

permitting phase and will offer development parcels for

commercial and industrial business; and a site location of six

buildings with more than 490,000 square feet of flex space, located

in the Village of Depew.

In 2017 Amazon chose to locate a new distribution center in a

former supermarket warehouse in Lancaster. The center, located

within the CBD catchment area, focuses on sorting packages to speed up delivery times. Customer orders

are filled, packed and shipped out from fulfillment centers to the distribution centers, which focus on smaller

geographic areas and offer delivery on Sundays. Buffalo Business First reported at least 500 positions

initially available, and the center continues to require employees. Greenfields Continuing Care Community,

also located within the catchment area but just outside the CBD boundaries, employs more than 400 people

and also regularly looks to hire employees, both part-time and full-time. Expansion of NFTA-Metro bus

routes as proposed in this DRI application

would enable employers to draw from a

wider pool of potential workers and open

additional employment opportunities for

residents of the Village of Lancaster.

As part of the 2017 economic feasibility

study, the consultant hired by the Village

projected the growth of at least 1,000 jobs

in the zip codes of 14086 and 14083 (the

Town and Village of Lancaster, as well as

the Village of Depew) by 2026. The

predominant fields identified were the

areas of retail, health care, and

accommodations/food services. Creation

of new business and mixed-use space in the currently underutilized space on West Main Street will open

the possibility for additional job growth in business, service, and culinary sectors within the Village. At the

same time, the continued growth of new housing and the presence of manufacturing and industrial space in

the Village and adjacent Town create the possibility for further job growth in those sectors, both in the

Village Industrial Park and/or at one of the Town Commerce Centers.

Attractiveness of physical environment

The Village of Lancaster is committed to the ongoing revitalization of the CBD. Since the 1998 release of

its first CBD Revitalization Strategy, the Village has dedicated much of its time and resources to

establishing the CBD as a social and economic destination for residents and visitors to Lancaster. With

numerous building and streetscape enhancements, as well as many special events located in the CBD, the

Village is well on its way to the desired transformation.

Central Avenue runs through the Village and serves as the primary commercial space in the Village. Lined

with a mixture of retail shops and services, Central also has residential and mixed-use space. Brick

sidewalks, historic lamp posts, and signage restrictions contribute to a unified look for the street, while

permitting individual property owners the flexibility for branding and marketing. In 2015, the Central

“The Village of Lancaster Downtown Revitalization

Initiative will promote a vibrant and diverse downtown

community attractive to businesses and individuals

throughout Western New York. The village has worked

aggressively to prepare this site to be an ideal location for

future mixed-use development that will add to the local

tax base and create new employment opportunities.”

Chris Collins, U. S. House of Representatives



Page | 22

Avenue and Broadway corridors were listed

on the State and National Registers of

Historic Places, affording business owners

the opportunity to participate in tax credit

programs. The following year, 2016, saw

the final phases of administration of the

2013 New York Main Street Award, which

focused on the façade restoration of

Performance Advantage Company,

HoganWillig Law Offices, and Bloomsbury

Lane Toy Shoppe located on West Main

Street and Central Avenue to drive economic

development and create affordable housing

for low-to-moderate income individuals in

the downtown district.

Over the past two decades, the Village has committed funding and DPW staff time to creating a more

pedestrian-friendly downtown district. It has invested over $1 million into replacing Village sidewalks.

Thanks to a 2015 NYSDOT Transportation Alternatives Program Grant, there are high-visibility crosswalks

with audible signals at major pedestrian intersections, speed signs near schools, and repaired sidewalks and

curbing on the major downtown thoroughfare, increasing downtown walkability and reducing greenhouse

gas emissions. These measures also increased pedestrian safety in the Village, especially for residents of

the Lancaster Towers, a low-to-moderate income senior high rise located in the CBD.

Bus stops along Central Avenue provide the opportunity for quick and efficient transportation into and out

of the Village. Use of CDBG and DRI funds to upgrade the bus stops, making them more climate resilient

and welcoming to riders, as well as the extension of the Heritage Trail and inclusion of bike racks at the

trailhead, will further enhance the Village’s pedestrian- and climate-friendly atmosphere.

The Village of Lancaster has several small parks and greenspaces, including two small park spaces located

within the CBD. Fireman’s Park overlooks Cayuga Creek as it

meanders through the Village. There is a small picnic shelter

available and several seating areas. A monument to all of the men

and women who volunteer their lifesaving skills is the centerpiece

of this unique park. In spring 2016, the Village dedicated Jeffrey

Stribing Memorial Park, a new green space adjacent to Central

Avenue and next to Plum Bottom Creek (photo left). This park

has proven to be a destination for CBD residents and employees

seeking an easily accessible and conveniently located natural

respite in the downtown area. Other Village parks and green

spaces include a spray pool on Richmond Avenue, Rotary Park,

Franger Square, and Veteran’s Memorial Park. In addition, there

are small playgrounds at the Como Park Elementary School,

Central Avenue School, Court Street School, and Mechanic Street

Park, which also includes tennis courts. The 9-acre Keysa Town Park, which has an Olympic-size outdoor

pool and wading pool, is also located within the Village boundaries.

The Erie County Office of Parks, Recreation and Forestry owns and operates Como Lake Park, which is in

both the Town and Village of Lancaster. The park offers a range of active and passive recreational activities.

Cayuga Creek runs through the park, with nature trails and opportunities to view wildlife. The 80-acres of

park land was originally donated from the Village of Lancaster to Erie County in 1926 and includes a 4.5-



Page | 23

acre human-made lake, which is currently undergoing dredging to rejuvenate it. Today, the park is

approximately 534 acres in size. Open to visitors year-round, Como Lake Park contains volleyball,

basketball, and tennis courts, a soccer field, a disc golf course, a softball diamond, a baseball diamond,

hiking/walking trails, and paved bike paths. Winter activities include cross-county skiing, snowshoeing,

sledding, and ice skating. The park has 59 picnic shelters and multiple playgrounds.

The Lancaster Central School District is a jewel which draws people to live in the community. The district

has approximately 6,000 students, with four elementary schools serving students grades K-3, one building

housing students in grades 4-6, a Middle School for grades 7-8, and a High School for grades 9-12. All

buildings are located within the catchment area of the Village Central Business District. The academic,

music and arts, and sports programs are consistently near the top of regional and state ratings.

In addition, the High School has several

Academy programs, designed to prepare

students for higher education and possible

careers in Healthcare, Visual/Performing Arts,

Leadership, and Finance. The HS Academy of

Finance is identified as a “distinguished”

program – the highest level of recognition

possible from the National Academy of Finance

— indicating they have reached the top tier in

career preparation. They are one of only four of

the 675 nationwide academies to achieve this

honor. The Academy of Finance has placed 440

students in paid internships over the last nine

years and provides annual work-based learning

activities for all academy students in grades 10-

12 to prepare them for the paid internship. As an

early adopter of the NAFTrack Certified Hiring program, students are guaranteed interviews with corporate

partners such as Xerox and JP Morgan Chase upon graduation from college.

Lancaster Central High School regularly graduates approximately 500 young adults, many of whom wish

to live, work, and play in the community where they grew up. Those who choose to attend college often go

to one of the many outstanding regional institutions of higher education. These individuals provide an

ongoing supply of young professionals, as well as a steady workforce, for many different types of

employment at the nearby manufacturing and the health-care facilities.

The Village of Lancaster is a one of only six Erie County communities to be a registered Climate Smart

Community, a partnership with the New York State government to work towards a resilient, low-emission

future. Recognizing the importance of environmental measures to create a higher quality of life, the Village

is pursuing several ecologically sustainable paths to enhance and improve the Village infrastructure. In

2017 the Village received a $22,000 grant from the NYS DEC Climate Smart Communities Program to

conduct an Extreme Weather Vulnerability Assessment to address two types of extreme weather events

faced by the Village: flooding and increased snowfall. Successful completion of this project (currently in

progress) will provide the Village of Lancaster with the information needed to develop and implement

projects, policies, and strategies to prevent and/or mitigate future risk associated with climate change. Those

projects, policies, and strategies – an outgrowth of this assessment – will result in protection of previous

infrastructure investments the state has made along the West Main Street corridor and permit the Village to

pursue additional projects and initiatives related to the development of a robust, sustainable community.

By implementing suggestions for improvement, Lancaster will further position itself to contribute to

“I am pleased to support the Village of Lancaster’s

application for Round 3 of the WNY Regional

Economic Development Council’s Downtown

Regional Initiative entitled “Shop, Stroll, Stay.” This

application will enable the Village to realize its

vision of developing an economically and culturally

robust downtown business district that is a

sustainable and vibrant gathering space for

residents and visitors for generations to come.”

Patrick Gallivan, NYS Senator, 59th District



Page | 24

Buffalo’s economic growth. Identifying and addressing the vulnerabilities faced by continued climate

change will enhance the Village’s status as an attractive place to live and do business.

Quality of Life policies The Village of Lancaster is committed to providing a high quality of life for each of its residents. Life in

the Village is based on the idea of community. Residents of the Village come from all income-levels and

age distributions. Projects proposed for DRI funds include making the CBD more accessible to those of all

ages, including transportation improvements which correspond with a complete streets plan, incorporating

means of accommodating pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit riders. These projects will extend the efforts

the Village has already made to create highly-visible crosswalks with audible signals and traffic speed signs

near the schools.

Chapter 350 of the Village of Lancaster Municipal

Code established zoning districts to regulate

development within the community. Through the

Village Code, code enforcement, and collaboration

with the Buffalo Erie Niagara Land Improvement

Corporation, the Village has very few properties

that are in foreclosure or abandoned. The zoning

and code policies adopted by the Village ensure that

property values remain consistent, public safety

hazards, such as vacant and condemned houses, are

not present, and blight in the Village remains

minimal.

In February 2018 the Village completed their updated Joint Comprehensive Plan in collaboration with the

Town of Lancaster and the Village of Depew. The Joint Comprehensive Plan provides a guide for future

growth and development for the Village, as well as demonstrates the close, cooperative nature of the

relationship between the Village and its nearest municipal neighbors. This plan outlines the seven zoning

districts, including residential districts, business districts, a manufacturing district, and an industrial park.

The Village is currently working with the Knoer Group to make sure they are fulfilling the zoning

recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan and the ESD Feasibility Study.

“When looking for a location, we felt strongly

that we wanted to be in a village setting rather

than a strip plaza. Besides being close to home,

the Village of Lancaster has historic charm and a

growing community of unique boutique shops

that benefit one another. The Village

government helps by holding numerous events

that draw shoppers, the maintenance is

excellent and the communication is good. We’re

very happy here.”

Dan & Joanne - Dark Forest Chocolate



Page | 25

Public Support

While the DRI proposal outlines major projects which would completely transform the Village CBD,

residents are not waiting for funding

to begin the revitalization efforts. On

Sunday, May 20, 2018, the Village

collaborated with the Senior Class of

Lancaster High School and the

Garden Club of Lancaster for its first

Village Clean-Up Event, “Spring Into

Action.” Donors sponsored gardens,

planters, and hanging baskets, and

approximately 75 volunteers worked

to beautify nine gardens in the Village

and plant the planters throughout the

Central Business District. Volunteers

represented all facets of community

life, including Lancaster School

students, faculty and Board members,

members of the Lions Club and Fire Department, employees from Target and the Good Neighbors Federal

Credit Union, County Legislator John Bruso, and other Lancaster residents.

Due to the numerous economic and livability benefits downtown revitalization would bring to the area and

the Western New York Region, the Village of Lancaster has the support of many key community

stakeholders. As indicated by the quotes used throughout this document, the Lancaster DRI has the support

of elected officials, such as County Legislator John Bruso, Assemblywoman Monica Wallace, NYS Senator

Patrick Gallivan, and U. S. Representative Chris Collins, as well as support from local business and

community leaders. The complete letters of support are appended to this document.

During the past year, Village residents have had the opportunity to participate in two different, but related,

planning and visioning events. In both instances, the number of residents participating far exceeded the

expectations of the consultants, an

indication of the enthusiasm of Village

residents to voice their opinions and

have a voice in the future of the Village.

As part of the 2017 ESD Feasibility

Study, the Village conducted a survey of

residents and business owners, and

1,500 responses were recorded. As part

of the survey residents were asked for

thoughts and suggestions on what they

would like to see happen in downtown

Lancaster. A selection of those

responses is shown in the sidebar next

page, with many repeatedly addressing

issues which will be mitigated through the implementation of the projects with the DRI. In February 2018,

the Village, in collaboration with the Town of Lancaster and the Village of Depew, completed their Joint



Page | 26

Comprehensive Plan. Village residents again made a

substantial number of contributions to the final product.

In 1996, the Village of Lancaster created the Lancaster

Community Development Corporation (CDC), a not-for-profit

organization dedicated to the revival of the downtown CBD.

The CDC has played an important part in preparing the Village

for the DRI, including meeting with developers regarding the

underutilized West Main Street property.

As a demonstration of their enthusiasm towards the

revitalization of the CBD, the CDC has created a branding and

marketing strategy, inviting residents and visitors to come

downtown to “Shop. Stroll. Stay.” With links to local shops,

restaurants, and events, the “Why Downtown” webpage (https://www.downtownlancasterny.com/ ) provides a snapshot

of the excitement and the opportunities available for

prospective developers, residents, and visitors. Although still in

its infancy, the website and the marketing campaign has already

drawn positive reviews.

The Village has also begun a quarterly newsletter, “The

Lancaster Villager,” available on the Village website, to keep

residents informed and engaged in Village activities and

initiatives.

The DRI Implementation Team will include the community

leaders who have provided support for this Initiative, with

Dawn Robinson, Deputy Mayor, serving as the lead. All

Village officials, led by Mayor William Schroeder, are fully

supportive of the CBD DRI and are committed to implementing

a strategic investment plan that will lead to community

revitalization, economic growth, and a brighter future for all

Village residents. As evidence of the full and complete

municipal support, a resolution passed by the Village Board in

support of the DRI is located in the Appendix.

[Create a] Narrow Park from Broadway to Aurora St along Cayuga Creek. With a wide walkway along the creek. With good lighting and benches…

* * * * *

We desperately need a multi-use building along [the] Creek and a park. Parking is so critical to downtown. Extend W. Main St. at its current level and put parking underneath it.

* * * * * LED streetlights, walkable neighborhoods, safe areas will attract business and people.

* * * * *

Park/flood zone on SW side, small boutique shops on NE side of a continued West Main.

* * * * *

Please complete West Main St to [create] a Village that would draw more people with a friendly, old town feel.

* * * *

Extend W. Main to Aurora and really create a Downtown like it was years ago. Urban renewal was the worst thing that happened to the downtown area.

* * * *

Get something done with West Main Street.

COMMUNITY INPUT: ESD FEASIBILITY STUDY

2017

https://www.downtownlancasterny.com/



Page | 27

Project List to Demonstrate Readiness

The Village of Lancaster has identified transformative projects which are ready for implementation with an

infusion of DRI funds and will spur further economic growth and development and revitalize the CBD.

These projects, outlined below, address economic development, transportation, housing, and quality of life

needs for Village residents and visitors.

Because of the Village’s proactive approach to study and planning, much of the preparatory work for these

projects has been accomplished. The formal DRI planning process will assist the Village in finalizing,

prioritizing, and launching the DRI.

Projects proposed for DRI funding are ready for implementation within the five-year scope of the DRI

program. Most significantly, the Community Development Corporation of the Village of Lancaster has a

prospective local developer who is ready to purchase the 4 ½-acre underutilized land on West Main Street

and begin the process of constructing multiple mixed-use buildings to include new business/retail space

and apartment housing. Having just completed the feasibility study for that property, the Village has

proposed ideas and a design scope for work, making them poised to begin this transformational project as

soon as funding is available through the DRI.

Project Project Cost DRI Funds

Requested

Other

Private/Public

Funding Mixed-Use Development,

West Main Street $6,900,000 $2,000,000 $4,900,000

New Streets at Village Center $3,500,000 $2,600,000 $900,000

Construction of Roundabouts $3,392,000 $2,500,000 $892,000

Cayuga Creek Park $405,000 $200,000 $205,000

Cayuga Landing $5,600,000 $1,500,000 $4,100,000

Develop a Comprehensive

Trail System $350,000 $250,000 $100,000

Trailhead Sign & Bike Racks $5,000 $2,500 $2,500

Opera House Vestibule $280,000 $140,000 $140,000

LED Streetlights $801,000 $732,500 $68,500

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations $11,400 $5,000 $6,400

CBD Wayfinding Signage $40,000 $20,000 $20,000

Climate Resilient Bus Stops $300,000 $50,000 $250,000

TOTAL PROJECT COSTS $21,584,400 $10,000,000 $11,584,400



Page | 28

Administrative Capacity

The Village has been awarded County, State, and

Federal funds, and has successfully executed

projects in a range of categories that demonstrate

the Village’s ability to select and hire contractors,

execute planning and construction projects, and

successfully perform all required administration in

the execution of these projects.

A team of experienced Village officials (listed

below) have worked to bring the Downtown

Revitalization Initiative application to completion

and will continue to oversee the DRI

implementation phases of planning and execution.

Dawn Robinson has been a Village of Lancaster Trustee since November 2012 and is overseeing

the administration of the most recent TAP grant. In April 2018 she was appointed Deputy Mayor.

As the President of WNY Safe Solutions Consulting (incorporated October 2016) and owner/sole

proprietor of Robinson Tax Service (created November 2017), she has both financial experience

and personal experience as a small business owner to guide continued development and spur small

business creation.

Lynne Ruda was elected as a Village of Lancaster Trustee in March of 2017 and was named

Director of Economic Development in April of 2018. During her time on the board, she has

created a Village Newsletter to improve communication between residents and Village

government, has initiated a Spring Clean-Up event, and has served as the chairperson of the Special

Events Committee since April of 2017. In addition to serving as a teacher at Lancaster High School

and a member of the Lancaster Fire Department, Lynne was recently honored by the Lancaster

Chamber of Commerce as its 2018 Citizen of the Year.

Michael Stegmeier is the Village of Lancaster Clerk/Treasurer and has worked for the Village since

2006. He has overseen the overall administration of more than 15 grants including New York Main

Street grants and federal transportation grants, as well as other projects related to the CBD and the

Village as a whole. He serves as the Budget Director and Chief Fiscal Officer for the Village of

Lancaster including the management and oversight of department budgets and long-term financial

planning. He is also appointed as the Climate Smart Coordinator managing projects and initiatives

that promote environmental awareness and provide sustainability and resiliency against future

changing climate conditions.

William Cansdale, currently Superintendent of the Village of Lancaster Department of Public

Works, has worked for the Village of Lancaster since 1991. He was mayor and oversaw the

development of the original CBD strategic plan in 1998, as well as the joint comprehensive plan

between the Village, the Town of Lancaster, and the Village of Depew. Mr. Cansdale has

supervised the administration of numerous grant awards related to the CBD and the broader Village.

Village officials, along with the Lancaster-area Chamber of Commerce, Community Development

Corporation, and the Lancaster IDA, share a common commitment to the successful redevelopment and

renewal of a sustainable Village CBD.

“In my experience representing the village in the

New York State Assembly, I can personally attest

to the diligent support and unwavering

commitment within the Lancaster community to

redevelop the Central Business District.

Furthermore, the leadership of the village mayor

and trustees and their collective dedication to

the redevelopment of downtown Lancaster will

guide this project appropriately.”

Monica Wallace, NYS Assembly, 143rd District



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Other

The Village of Lancaster is unique in

having an underutilized space of 4 ½ acres

at the heart of downtown which is ready for

development. This space presents an

unusual prospect for an older village – the

chance to engage in major new construction

in a historic preservation district. A $10

million award for Downtown Revitalization

would enable the Village to immediately

enact transformational projects that would

positively impact not only the Village and

its current residents, but the surrounding

municipalities, with effects reaching out

across the county.

The Village has spent years in planning, community engagement, and dialogue with other local leaders to

reach this point. Their endurance and persistence in believing in the value of revitalization of the Central

Business District has resulted in the growth of new businesses, energized residents who participate in

community dialogues and discussions, and an enthusiastic vision of a vibrant, thriving downtown which

houses a diverse population, attracts new residents and visitors through a mixture of unique shops and

restaurants, and offers a variety of employment options.

“The Village of Lancaster Downtown Revitalization

Initiative will promote a vibrant and diverse downtown

community attractive to businesses and individuals, re-

creating an economically and culturally robust business

district that is a sustainable and vibrant gathering space

for residents and visitors for generations to come.”

John Bruso, Erie County Legislator, 8th District

Village of Lancaster Central Business District WNY Downtown Revitalization Initiative

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Appendix

Map of the Village of Lancaster Central Business District

Letters of Support

Chris Collins, U. S. House of Representatives, 27th District, NY

Patrick Gallivan, NYS Senator, 59th District

Monica Wallace, NYS Assembly, 143rd District

John Bruso, Erie County Legislator, 8th District

James B. Allein, President, Lancaster Community Development Corporation

John L. Chmarney, President, Lancaster Area Chamber of Commerce

Johanna Coleman, Supervisor, Town of Lancaster Village of Lancaster Board of Trustees, Resolution


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Village of Lancaster, Central Business District


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