Since 2017, the Western New York Land Conservancy has worked with NFTA and many community members and partners to pursue the community's vision of transforming the DL&W corridor into a vibrant nature trail and greenway for all to enjoy.  As The Riverline project was approaching the transition from planning to construction, the Land Conservancy moved to create a new 501(c)3 for The Riverline so that it could independently raise funds, apply for grants, continue to work with the NFTA to complete the project, and eventually be in charge of long-term operations and maintenance of the trail. This model of cooperation between land owners and nonprofit groups is common among other Highline Network projects across the United States. Creating a new 501(c)3 for The Riverline would enable the Land Conservancy to focus on its mission of permanent land protection in Western New York.

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In response to this change, the NFTA has stated it does not prefer to have an arrangement with a new 501(c)3 entity. We understand that these events are disappointing to all the community members, partners, and supporters who have put significant time, energy, and resources into moving this project forward. 

 

However, thanks to former Congressman Brian Higgins and former State Senator Tim Kennedy, $1.6 million has already been secured by the Land Conservancy in partnership with the NFTA, with another $1 million pending in a Federal appropriation bill. This money is earmarked for the purpose of constructing the first section of The Riverline - the block between Alabama and Hamburg Streets which includes the Mackinaw Street Playgarden and a section of the Del Woodlands trail. The Land Conservancy is pleased that the NFTA is committed to fulfilling its obligation under these earmarks. The Riverline staff will continue its work on current projects, including The Riverline Community Arts Program, as well as The Riverline Study, a mandatory process required for projects receiving state and federal funding. The Riverline Study can be used to guide any future work on the project.