Sand being tested for Gallagher Beach

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Some land on the outer harbor that thousands of drivers pass every day is now at the center of a science experiment of sorts.

The Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation is laying low-grade sand at Gallagher Beach and another site to the north to see if the sand can withstand the conditions along the Lake Erie shoreline.

ECHDC President Thomas Dee said, "We have so much going on. Following all the good work that we've done at Canalside we're bringing it now to the outer harbor. And it starts with public access."

If the sand can withstand the test of time, this area could be home to the first public beach within city limits.