Ralph Wilson Park Pedestrian Bridge: A Landmark Investment in Community Connectivity

By Cristina Cordero (Senior Associate Director - Project Management), Kevin P Gulvin (Director - Cost Management) and Stephen Noone (Director)

As real estate professionals, we understand that the built environment is continually evolving and plays a pivotal role in shaping vibrant communities. In our latest Building Insights newsletter, we are excited to unveil our Signature Project series, which highlights transformative projects with enduring impact. This month, we shine a spotlight on the Ralph Wilson Park Pedestrian Bridge—an exceptional example of infrastructure revitalization that enhances connectivity and community engagement in Buffalo.

The newly constructed bridge replaces an aging structure over the I-190, having been chosen through a community-based design competition led by the University at Buffalo Regional Institute in early 2020. The winning design from schlaich bergermann partner (sbp), celebrated for its innovative and sustainable long-span bridges, pays homage to Buffalo's rich architectural and industrial heritage. This enclosed steel arch not only shields pedestrians from the noise and traffic below but also creates a safe and welcoming gateway into the park. For visitors arriving via the I-190, it represents a striking new entry point to Buffalo’s waterfront.

Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Milestones

Heralded as a “bridge to a greener future” by The Buffalo News, the project faced significant challenges, particularly in coordination among various agencies, including NYDOT, NYSTA, and Amtrak/CSX, to comply with complex regulatory requirements. Manufactured by Cimolai in Italy—the same firm that designed Hudson Yards’ Vessel—the bridge embarked on an impressive journey across the Atlantic, navigating the Hudson River and the historic Erie Canal before arriving in Buffalo. Community watch parties hosted by the Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy generated local excitement as residents awaited the bridge’s installation.

Installed overnight from Saturday to Sunday to minimize disruptions, the 220-ton structure was meticulously positioned over the I-190. The City of Buffalo, state and local agencies, along with emergency services, worked in concert to remove the old bridge and secure the new one. This coordinated effort highlights a commitment not only to constructing infrastructure but also to fostering a celebrated community asset.

Hope Knight, President of Empire State Development, called the installation “an important milestone in the creation of Ralph Wilson Park- linking the waterfront park to the residents and neighborhoods that will enjoy it for generations to come.”

Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon highlighted its importance in meeting the community’s priority for safer, easier access to the 100+ acre waterfront park, saying, "The Ralph Wilson Park Pedestrian Bridge stands as a testament to Buffalo’s commitment to innovation, connectivity, and community progress. This project not only enhances safe and easy access to one of our city’s most treasured waterfront spaces but also symbolizes the collaborative spirit that drives our city forward. This new gateway is a proud reflection of Buffalo’s rich history and bright future."

Connecting Community and Nature

The Ralph Wilson Park project exemplifies Buffalo’s dedication to accessible, community-focused infrastructure. Born from the Imagine LaSalle initiative, this transformation has involved thousands of community members and stakeholders. The park, a beloved gathering place for generations in Buffalo’s West Side neighborhood, offers a rich history of family activities, from playing in the fields to picnicking by the waterfront.

The $110 million design and development, initiated with a lead gift from the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation in 2018 and construction starting in 2022, will feature world-class amenities such as soccer fields, baseball and softball diamonds, tennis courts, custom playgrounds, picnic shelters, and concession stands, along with extensive pedestrian and bike paths. Key community amenities like the swimming pool, splash pad, skate park, dog park, and football field will also be preserved and enhanced. The City of Buffalo, Buffalo Urban Development Corporation and the RCWJ Foundation have been working closely with Gardiner & Theobald for about 5 years to make the project a reality. A highly customized tracking system has been developed to enable 20+ funding sources to come together in support of the project’s required cashflow. In addition to the RCWJ Foundation’s funding, a wide range of sources from infrastructure and resiliency to recreation and ecology focused grants, are actively contributing to the construction of the overall park.

The recent installation of the pedestrian bridge, linking the park to the waterfront, marks an exciting new phase for Ralph Wilson Park. Although currently closed to the public, updates from the Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy will keep everyone informed on future developments. This bridge is a significant step in connecting Buffalo’s residents with the waterfront and fostering community spirit. For real estate professionals, this project enhances urban connectivity and presents a prime investment opportunity in an area focused on community engagement and sustainable development.

Stay tuned for more updates as this remarkable project unfolds!

Images courtesy of Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy flickr