21-05-2025
Vision for Ralph Wilson Park begins to take shape
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — The transformation of LaSalle Park into the new Ralph Wilson Park is well underway. On Tuesday, community members received an update on construction progress as we inch closer to the first sections of the park opening.
'We're really committed to keeping the community very well informed about what is going on at Ralph Wilson Park,' said Katie Campos, executive director for the Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy. 'The community designed this park. We're building this together.'
Construction on phase one of the project began roughly two years ago and is nearly complete. This includes the construction of several soccer and baseball fields that are equipped with massive lighting, utility work, shoreline reinforcement, and a pedestrian bridge connecting the 4th Street side.
'Unlike a building, a park's worst day is the first day it opens,' said Campos. 'We're seeding the lawn so it's going to take some time to take root and grow.'
Due to this, the southern area of the park will be open to the public in the summer of 2026.
Now, officials are looking ahead to what's next. Andy Rabb, deputy commissioner for parks and recreation for the City of Buffalo spoke with residents about what they can expect.
Phase two includes constructing several bike and walking paths with new views for residents, a kayak launch, a dog park, bathroom facilities, a playground for all ages, and much more. Phase two construction is set to begin in the fall of 2026 and wrap up by the summer of 2027.
Campos said the $110 million transformation will draw both locals and tourists into downtown.
'We anticipate about a million annual visitors,' said Campos. 'That means increased business, many more jobs, increased housing values. It's an economic engine for the City of Buffalo.'
Residents left the meeting feeling optimistic. Many of them said their voices are being heard as the vision for the park continues to take shape.
'That means everything,' said Buffalo resident Bill Minarchi. 'The fact that they're listening to the community, listening to us, the Buffalonians … they're giving us what the people want and that's fantastic.'
The park will be hosting an event on July 16, also known as 716 Day, where residents can get a sneak peek of the progress done. Information will be posted here.
Trina Catterson joined the News 4 team in 2024. She previously worked at WETM-TV in Elmira, a sister station of WIVB. See more of her work here.
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