# ECHDC Advances Buffalo Waterfront Safety and Infrastructure

The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) Board has approved over $3.5 million in contracts to enhance waterfront safety, infrastructure, and sponsorship initiatives in Buffalo, New York. Key contracts include safety and accessibility improvements at Terminal B, site lighting upgrades, boardwalk replacement, and asset valuation to support sustainable revenue generation through sponsorships. These projects aim to protect and revitalize public waterfront spaces with completion targeted by May 2027, reflecting a strategic focus on economic vitality and long-term asset management.

- **Key agencies involved:** Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC) and Empire State Development (ESD) are leading these initiatives, signaling active state-level investment in waterfront infrastructure.
- **Contract opportunities:** Prime contractors Miller Construction Services, Inc. and Frey Construction Co., Inc. secured major contracts for physical improvements, while The Superlative Group provides consulting on sponsorship and asset valuation.
- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note the emphasis on combining infrastructure upgrades with innovative revenue strategies, indicating growing demand for integrated construction and consulting services.
- **Actionable insight:** Companies specializing in construction, lighting, safety enhancements, and sponsorship consulting may find opportunities in similar waterfront or public space projects, especially in New York State.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 14, 2026

### Government Entities
- Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC)
- Empire State Development (ESD)
- USA Niagara Development Corporation
- Erie County Executive
- City of Buffalo Mayor

### Vendors
- Miller Construction Services, Inc. (d/b/a Scott Lawn Yard) (prime contractor)
- Frey Construction Co., Inc. (prime contractor)
- The Superlative Group (consultant)
- Be Our Guest (contractor)
- LiRo Engineers, Inc. (contractor)

### Key Quotes
> Thanks to the ongoing vision and leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, ECHDC is taking proactive steps to protect and sustain our waterfront investments, from fixing storm-damaged infrastructure to exploring innovative sponsorship and asset strategies.
> — Joan Kesner, ECHDC Chairperson

### Sources
- [ECHDC Board Advances Waterfront Safety, Infrastructure and Sponsorship Initiatives | Empire State Development](https://esd.ny.gov/esd-media-center/press-releases/echdc-board-advances-waterfront-safety-infrastructure-and) - Empire State Development (.gov)