Gov. Hochul announces grand opening of Wilkeson Pointe
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- Wilkeson Pointe is now open after nearly three years of restorations to the Buffalo Waterfront, Gov. Hochul announced Friday.
In August 2022, a $300 million restoration project was announced for the waterfront, with $11 million going towards Wilkeson Pointe. Renovations began in September 2023, including a new outdoor seating area, visitor safety measures, and restrooms and storage for the operations management team.
Volleyball courts and kayak and bicycle rentals have returned to the park. In addition, a new Tex-Mex restaurant, announced in March, is expected to open soon.
Perro & Poni will serve tacos, light-bites, frozen drinks, cocktails, and local brews.
“Wilkeson Pointe has been one of Buffalo’s top spots for relaxation and recreation for more than a decade,” Hochul said. “Now, whether you’re meeting up with friends, enjoying an outdoor stroll or taking in the sunset, this new restaurant and expanded waterfront access, make Wilkeson Pointe an unparalleled outdoor destination.”
In June, Great Lakes Cruise Ships chose a consulting firm to design a cruise port site in the city. Now, Hochul says Victory Cruise Lines, Inc. intends to include Buffalo in their cruise itineraries beginning in 2027.
"These new upgrades represent a major step forward in our city's waterfront transformation," said Buffalo Acting Mayor Chris Scanlon. "With enhanced recreational amenities, natural landscaping, and the exciting addition of Perro & Poni, this project reflects our shared vision of a vibrant, inclusive, and accessible waterfront that celebrates Buffalo's natural beauty and economic resurgence."
This is just the latest effort to come to fruition as part of the governor's 'Get Offline, Get Outside' initiative, geared at getting New York youth off their cell phones and outdoors.
"That's why I'm making major investments in swimming pools, outdoor activities, and parks," Governor Hochul said. "So young people feel that there is a place where they can go and meet their friends down here, take a walk, buy a hot dog, have an ice cream cone, and that's much more positive and healthier for them overall."
Kayleigh Hunter-Gasperini joined the News 4 team in 2024 as a Digital Video Producer. She is a graduate of Chatham University.