November 19, 2009

Since its creation as part of Frederick Law Olmsted's design for the City of Buffalo in 1899, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens has been a stunning example of Victorian architecture, botany, and horticulture, and it remains a haven for those seeking nature, a few rounds of golf, or a relaxing afternoon. The significance of the Botanical Gardens within Buffalo and Erie County's history continues unabated and the announcement on November 18th, 2009 of the addition of 3.14 acres of a new administration building and greenhouses continues this tradition.

The restoration, improvement, and addition of new space and exhibits to the Botanical Gardens ensure its viability within our parks system into the future. However, what is significant to me as an Erie County Legislator is that the administration building will be the first to be constructed in the County under the United States Green Building Council Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). The LEED framework promotes energy savings, CO2 emissions reduction, water efficiency, improved indoor environmental quality, and an overall awareness of energy efficiency and environmental preservation throughout the building process.

The Green Buildings Act, legislation that I sponsored and pushed to get passed unanimously by the Legislature in 2007, requires that Erie County adopt the environmentally friendly LEED guidelines when renovating or constructing a building larger than 2,500 gross square feet. These guidelines combat energy waste and inefficiency within the County, saving the taxpayers money in addition to decreasing the harmful effects of waste and pollution.

This undertaking by the Botanical Gardens to invest significantly in its future infrastructure and design was facilitated through the cooperation of the City of Buffalo and the County of Erie in February 2009 to allow construction on the city-owned parcel of land. This cooperation, the investment of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy, and the implementation of LEED guidelines for the first time in the county, illustrate a commitment on behalf of all parties involved to both green energy standards and the restoration of this great regional landmark.

Back to District 2 Homepage