Backers of Proposed Buffalo Complex not Discouraged
By: Tina Shively
Updated: October 24, 2012
We're learning more about "The Strong's" role in a $1.4 billion project.
The developers of the proposed "Greater Buffalo Sports and Entertainment Complex" approached the Rochester group to develop a new museum.
The North American Museum of Sports and Culture would focus on play, competition and character.
Along with a convention center, shops and hotels, it would contribute to about 90 percent of the economic impact of the complex.
The other 10 percent?
A 72,000 seat state-of-the-art stadium that developers hope will become the future home of the Buffalo Bills.
Current management seems less than supportive of the plan so far, but developers are not discouraged.
News 8's Tina Shively asked Developer George Hasiotis "The Bills CEO (Russ Brandon) told reporters that this idea was a "non-starter", that there was "nothing to it". Will you proceed without their support?"
Hatsiotis replied "Let me say this, we wouldn't be at this stage of development or this stage of discourse if we didn't believe through our professional team that this isn't what the league wants...this project will not proceed if the NFL says don't do it. But the NFL has to know about it and has to evaluate it and we will make that presentation at the appropriate time."
Developers say 30 percent of the funding for the project, about $400,000 would come from taxpayers.
They're waiting for the approval of the Buffalo Common Council before they approach the NFL and state leaders. It could take several months.
The Strong has no funding invested in the project. President and CEO G. Rollie Adams says at this point they're just waiting to see what happens.
They see it as a compliment that developers sought them out to be involved.
