Bee Editorial
Multiuse development: a step in the right direction
A multiuse development proposal on Maple Road at the former Buffalo Shooting Club should become a reality.

That section of Amherst can support the proposal for a revolutionary idea - something Western New York needs. A multiuse development is something this area has not seen, but should.

A hotel, theatre, speciality shops and restaurants are in the site plan. As well as an estimated 75 condominiums.

The proposal is a great plan to compliment the advancements at the Pepsi Center and University at Buffalo.

Recently, the ice rink has served as a site for international tournaments, hosting dozens of teams, competing for days at time. In the surrounding area hotels were booked solid. Bring the players, coaches and family members to the proposed hotel on Maple Road, and they will also shop and eat. The same can be said of the events drawing visitors to UB, as well as the thousands of parents who come to the area to visit their children throughout the year.

It would be something different, something progressive, in a region that has been criticized for its lack of development and loss in population.

This proposal and rezoning request for that section of Maple Road deserves a look. One, because the Zoning Community Facilities calls for amenities that already exist in the surrounding area; golf courses, ice rinks and other recreational services. Two, the Maple Road corridor is already mixed use with residential, restaurants, hotels and office space. Three, the land is there and available to support this proposal.

Amherst needs to become attractive to businesses, residents and students. When you think about places you would like to visit, live or go to school, do you see a dingy city that is going under? With a decreased population, empty store fronts, outdated strip malls? We are guessing - no. You think of state-of-the art facilities, trendy restaurants, unique shopping experiences and entertainment options.

We know this proposal has opposition, and we recommend that you attend the public hearing on Monday, Aug. 20 at Town Hall, 5583 Main St., Williamsville, where both sides are sure to be represented as the Town Board moves closer to make a decision to grant the rezoning request or not.

Don't be afraid of change. This proposal could be very interesting and beneficial to the area. That land should not remain bare. If it was large enough for ammunition flying about, it's large enough to support this multi-use development.