Hamburg, NY – Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera, Erie County Legislator John Gilmour and the Village of Hamburg announced today a $1.5 million renovation of the public parking lot at Main and Buffalo streets in the Village of Hamburg, which will have a transformative effect on the area as a central hub of activity within the village.

Assemblymember Rivera secured $300,000 in state capital funding for the project, while the remainder of the project’s cost will be funded through additional sources that include $180,000 secured by Erie County Legislator John Gilmour, grant funding from the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York, NYS Department of Transportation, and the state Department of Environmental Transportation’s Municipal ZEV (Zero Emissions Vehicle) Infrastructure Grant program.

The scope of the work includes added sidewalks, landscaping, lighting and benches through the parking lot. The intention is also to add EV charging stations and facilities for alternative transportation options, including buses, to make the area a transportation center. The existing lot will be paved and restriped, while the existing park space will be expanded and enhanced.

This substantial investment will not only enhance the physical infrastructure of the location, but will also contribute to making the area safer, more inviting, and will further emphasize its role as a central gathering place for the community.

The Village of Hamburg is in the bid selection process and hopes to begin construction this spring. Village officials envision that the work will be completed prior to Burgerfest 2024, slated to begin on Saturday, July 20. 

The funding secured by Assemblymember Rivera will be utilized to implement key elements of the project, including but not limited to:

• Landscaping and Green Spaces — Introducing greenery and landscaping features to enhance the aesthetic appeal.
• Lighting — Installing well-designed lighting fixtures to ensure safety and visibility during evening hours.
• Pathways and Accessibility — Creating pedestrian-friendly pathways and ensuring the space is accessible to all residents.
• Seating Areas — Providing comfortable seating options for individuals and families to gather and relax.
• Infrastructure for Community Events — Incorporating features that allow for the hosting of community events, markets, and gatherings.

The village is also planning on installing a pergola and will aim to make the location a year-round events space through the hosting of programming, which will include musical performances.

Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said, “I worked hard to secure this investment, which I see as a reflection of my commitment to the future of Hamburg. When this project is completed, the transformation of this parking lot into a central hub of the village will foster community engagement and improve the overall quality of life for Hamburg residents. By creating a safe, attractive, and accessible space, we aim to encourage community members to come together, socialize, and enjoy activities throughout the year.”

Village of Hamburg Mayor Thomas Tallman said, “I want to thank Assemblymember Jon Rivera for his vital support for this important Village of Hamburg project. The Village Community Hub will transform the centralized parking lot of the Village and make the entire parking lot more pedestrian-friendly, safe, and welcoming. The project will improve the walkability of the Village, help support our thriving businesses and restaurants, and make this central area of the Village more conducive to special events and community gatherings.”