About Central Terminal Restoration Corporation
Central Terminal Restoration Corporation: Restoring the Iconic Art-Deco Architectural Jewel in Buffalo's Broadway-Fillmore District
The Central Terminal Restoration Corporation (CTRC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to restoring and preserving the iconic art-deco architectural jewel in Buffalo's Broadway-Fillmore district. The Central Terminal, as it is commonly known, was once a bustling transportation hub that served millions of passengers each year. Today, it stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage.
The Central Terminal was designed by architects Fellheimer & Wagner and opened its doors in 1929. It was built to serve as a train station for the New York Central Railroad and quickly became one of the busiest transportation hubs in the country. The terminal featured state-of-the-art amenities such as air conditioning, escalators, and even an underground concourse.
However, with the decline of rail travel in the mid-20th century, the Central Terminal fell into disrepair. It was eventually abandoned in 1979 and left to decay for decades. In 1997, a group of concerned citizens formed CTRC with the goal of restoring this historic landmark.
Since then, CTRC has been working tirelessly to restore and preserve this iconic building. The organization has raised millions of dollars through grants, donations from individuals and corporations alike. These funds have been used to stabilize the building's structure, repair its exterior masonry work and restore some interior spaces.
One notable restoration project completed by CTRC is their work on restoring one of two original baggage tunnels that run beneath Paderewski Drive adjacent to Memorial Drive leading up to Buffalo’s East Side landmark train station complex at 495 Paderewski Drive.
CTRC has also worked hard on developing partnerships with other organizations such as Explore & More Children’s Museum which will be opening soon at Canalside downtown Buffalo NY area near KeyBank Center arena where they will have an exhibit about trains featuring artifacts from Western New York’s railroad history including items from former Erie Lackawanna Railway employees who worked at nearby Frontier Yard located just south east down Memorial Dr from CTRC headquarters inside terminal complex itself!
In addition to restoration efforts, CTRC also hosts events throughout the year aimed at raising awareness about this historic landmark while providing fun activities for visitors young or old alike! These events include tours led by knowledgeable guides who share stories about what life was like when trains were king; concerts featuring local musicians; art shows showcasing works inspired by or created within these walls; holiday celebrations like Easter egg hunts or Christmas tree lightings – all designed not only entertain but educate people about importance preserving our past so future generations can enjoy it too!
As part of their ongoing efforts towards preservation education outreach programs are offered through partnerships with local schools where students learn about architecture engineering construction trades skills needed maintain buildings like central terminal while gaining hands-on experience working alongside professionals involved various aspects restoration process itself!
In conclusion,
The Central Terminal Restoration Corporation is doing important work not only for Buffalo but also for our nation's cultural heritage overall! Their tireless efforts towards restoring this iconic building are truly commendable given how much time effort money goes into such projects especially when dealing structures over eighty years old! With continued support from community members businesses alike we can ensure that future generations will be able appreciate marvels past while enjoying modern amenities present day offers us all today!
buffalocentralterminal.org
