Even the bravest Buffalo drivers fear the section of Main Street near UB's South Campus, starting at Bailey Avenue and going south. Several problems are centered in that area, with an awkward semi-turn to Kenmore Avenue, a poorly designed crosswalk from the campus to the shopping center and a winding route from Main onto Bailey in order to get to North Campus. The renovations are overdue and well worth the time and money.
After almost five years of planning and delay, there is a clear-cut course of action along with a blueprint. The plan will cost $16.1 million, but most of that money is being covered by federal highway funds, with State Department of Transportation funding covering 15 percent and less than $1 million coming from taxpayers. The proposed plan will not only make those streets safer and more navigable, but also decorate the area with parks, benches and trees.
The benefits of this project greatly outweigh the costs, as avoiding potential serious injuries is always a huge plus. In addition to cutting down accidents of people running the red lights on Bailey after crossing Main Street, there will be a remodeling of the connection to Kenmore Avenue, so cars in the right lane do not accidentally go straight and cut off people trying to turn right from the center lane. That turn will become a 90-degree angle, with a stoplight and raised crosswalk so that students can safely walk across the street.
Long-term benefits necessitate short-term suffering. Richard Noll, manager of planning and programming at University Facilities, anticipates a 30-minute delay as well as restricted access to some areas of South Campus.
Luckily, the bulk of the project is slated for the summer, ending in December. In that period, the university must double or even triple bus service to cut down on car traffic in the area, and people who insist on driving should investigate alternative routes. The university must also provide some route advice for students to use.
In the end, this project will do wonders for the area. The traffic will flow more smoothly, and there will be fewer accidents. Pedestrians will be able to make better use of the shopping center, which could develop into more of a hub. The beautification projects will be icing on the cake, for reasons of usage and cosmetics.
All the pieces fell into place with this plan. Since this will only take nine months and is mostly federal money, there is no reason to oppose the plan. The future benefits for motorists and pedestrians are great, and the sacrifice is low. Improving safety is always a positive, and hopefully it will start a trend of local improvements and renovations.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
