Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park

Reimagining Buffalo’s former LaSalle Park required a waterfront park that reflected the priorities of the communities it serves. Imagine LaSalle engaged thousands of residents, partners and stakeholders in shaping that vision. The delivery challenge was to translate those ambitions into a coordinated, phased transformation of more than 100 acres, integrating new landscapes, recreation facilities, waterfront access and connections across the I-190.

G&T provides project and cost management services to Buffalo Urban Development Corporation for the delivery of Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates’ masterplan. Working with the client, the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, the City of Buffalo Department of Public Works, Parks & Streets, the design team and construction partners, G&T helps coordinate budgets, schedules and interfaces across the phased works, including major landscape improvements, recreation facilities and the pedestrian bridge connecting the park with surrounding neighborhoods.

The phased transformation is creating a more accessible waterfront park with new recreation and play spaces, gathering areas and stronger connections to Lake Erie. Phase 1 is scheduled to open to the public in spring 2027, followed by Phase 2 in spring 2028. The pedestrian bridge strengthens neighborhood access, while the Ralph Wilson Park Conservancy supports the park’s long-term care and programming. Together, these investments establish a lasting public resource shaped by Buffalo’s communities.