Reuse of the giant AM&A's complex is moving forward.  The current phase includes the rehab of three historic vacant warehouses along Washington Street.  Rocco Termini and Signature Development are taking on the $11 million project aided by a mix of historic preservation tax credits and IDA incentives. The plan calls for 48 loft apartments 15,000 sq.ft. of commercial space pre-leased by a growing collections agency.  Carmina Wood Morris is the project architect.

New windows are being installed and facade repairs are underway.  The warehouses are being gutted and the classic "AM&A's" sign has been repainted along Washington Street. An Eagle Street warehouse will be demolished to provide tenant and visitor parking.  The aggressive plan has a tight schedule with completion expected in April.

According to a recent report in The Buffalo News, a dozen of the residences have been reserved, including 10 of 36 one-bedroom apartments, and two of 12 of the larger units. With strong interest, Termini hasn't stopped there. Signature Development has the adjacent Lafayette Hotel under contract and is working on an ambitious plan to reuse the store across the street.

 

 

Plans for the Lafayette Hotel call for 115 loft apartments and 15,000 sq.ft. of office space. Recently unveiled plans for the AM&A's Department Store include a 117 room hotel, banquet facilities, a food court, and an unspecified amount of office and residential space. When complete, the centrally-located blocks will be transformed into a mixed-use, 24/7 neighborhood.

 

 Washington Street's long overdue redevelopment is finally taking shape. 

 

Get Connected: Signature Development, 716.861.5385

Photos: Nathan Mroz (Buffalonian4life)