Heritage and Cultural Tourism

with Thomas Gallaher and Thomas Moriarty, Bonnie Soley moderator, and Bradshaw Hovey recorder

Guest speakers Thomas Gallaher and Thomas Moriarity sat in on a session about the exceedingly complex topic of heritage and cultural tourism development, as moderated by Bonney Soley and recorded by Bradshaw Hovey.

Speakers in this session developed two strong themes: the need to create a dense, active, mixed-use development and the demand to produce an attraction that is authentic and uniquely Buffalo. The two themes presented were not necessarily in opposition, but there was some tension between them, as the debate bore out.

Several participants argued the importance of bringing housing, entertainment, recreation and employment into the Canal District so that people might have something to do after they’ve seen the slip and accompanying museums and exhibits. The area needs to be a “people place” with 24-hour activity in order to succeed, they said.

On the other side of the question were participants who worried that the concern for “mixed use” would overwhelm the need to preserve authentic resources. If the focus is on mixed-use development, one speaker suggested, then all the discussion of recreating the historic Central Wharf may be merely “lip service.”

The consultants, as they had done during their presentations, underscored the need to design for the expected market. For example, Roy Mann, a consultant for Erie County, said his concept for the Canal District included only 15 percent for museums and exhibits, the rest for retail, restaurant, office, and housing development.

There were some points of convergence. Whatever is developed should reflect the local Buffalo culture rather than some generic corporate stamp. It will take some time to develop the area; perhaps it can grow “organically.” And given that Buffalo is not a “slam-dunk tourist destination,” the attraction will have to suit local residents first and draw visitors later. As one citizen said, “It has to work for us.”

Like the first group, participants had much to say about the richness of the stories to be told on Buffalo’s waterfront, from the Indian running path to the present day. The looming presence of the Skyway – and the desire to remove it – was acknowledged. Others urged their fellow citizens to get involved in the process that will decide all these issues.