Big plans for Buffalo's waterfront

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Big plans are being made for Buffalo's waterfront this summer. Most of the family friendly events are inexpensive, or even free.

A two masted schooner for charter sails, kayaks, bikes - just some of the new attractions this summer at the Erie Canal Harbor.

Sally and Sam Tabone can feel the excitement.

Sally Tabone said, "It's nice to see people and so many interesting things."

Wednesday morning, elected leaders unveiled the vast array of summer activities planned at the harbor site.

United States Congressman Brian Higgins said, "The waterfront for the past three decades has been economically dormant, so what we're doing is making it attractive, assessible and also making it attrative for the private sector."

School children enjoyed what they saw Wednesday, and what's to come. Many of the free events consist of daily children's activities, cultural re-enactments, educational seminars and guided canal district tours.

Erie County Executive Chris Collins said, "You've got to deliver and what the Erie Couny Harbor Development and Buffalo Place is delivering is a reason to keep coming back."

Musical events are also a big part of the lineup. Organizers say they have some top notch acts and it all takes place across the canal. Joan Osborne, Robert Cray Band, Black Crowes and Bruce Hornsby are among the scheduled acts.

Tickets are $10 dollars in advance, $20 at the door.

Also new is The Spirit of Buffalo. For $23 dollars, you can sail out of the historic commercial slip. You can kayak, or canoe too on weekends and holidays for $20 dollars an hour.

Jason Schwinger of BFLO Harbor Kayak said, "If you go south down the Buffalo River, you'll see grain elevators and the history of Buffalo. If you go north, you'll wind up at Erie Basin Marina."

The momentum is building as the waterfront finally comes to life in downtown Buffalo.

A Fourth of July celebration is scheduled to take place at the Central Wharf. It's free and includes fireworks and all sorts of musical acts.