Governor Hochul Unveils Plans for Buffalo Millrace Park
The $8.25 million project will bring a new community park to the Larkinville neighborhood by 2028.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Philanthropy
Live Poll
Do you support prioritizing public funding for new recreational park projects in your local community?
Governor Kathy Hochul announced plans to develop Millrace Park at 822 Seneca St. in Buffalo. The project is backed by $8.25 million in combined state and private funding.
Why it matters
The development serves as a strategic investment in the ongoing revitalization of the Larkinville neighborhood. It aims to integrate public resources with private-sector contributions to drive local growth.
The park project secured $8.25 million in total funding from state and private sources. The investment supports a larger vision that includes the restoration of an 1869 home.
The players
Kathy Hochul
She is the Governor of New York who announced the state's financial support for the park project.
Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation
This organization provided a $1 million contribution toward the construction of the new park.
Zemsky Family Foundation
This family foundation contributed $1 million to assist with the park project's development.
National Grid
This energy company provided $250,000 to support the development of the park infrastructure.
Millrace Park Inc.
This entity is designated to serve as the legal owner of the new park upon its completion.
The details
Located at 822 Seneca St., the park is set to include a playground, mini-golf, and a tennis court. It is the first phase of the broader Larkin 2040 plan, which also encompasses home restoration and a new headquarters.
Timeline
1869: Original construction of the Seneca Street home.
October 20, 2026: Governor Kathy Hochul announced the park plans.
Fall 2028: Scheduled opening date for Millrace Park.
Market Landscape
This development represents a major milestone in the execution of the Larkin 2040 plan. It signals a shift toward integrated public-private urban revitalization projects in the region.
Residents of the Larkinville neighborhood can expect a new public space featuring tennis courts, mini-golf, and a playground. The project also promises future improvements including new residential and food development options.
The takeaway
The transformation of the Seneca Street property underscores the impact of combined private-public funding on urban renewal. Local stakeholders can track the progress of the Larkin 2040 plan to see how future residential and hospitality projects evolve.
What happens next
The project is expected to reach its next milestone when the park opens to the public by fall 2028.
Further reading
Learn more about local community efforts in our Buffalo Philanthropy section.
Live Poll
Do you support prioritizing public funding for new recreational park projects in your local community?
