Published: November 21, 2009 12:09 am      

CITY OF TONAWANDA: Niawanda Park to get new pavilion

Plans are in the works for an all-weather pavilion at Niawanda Park in the City of Tonawanda.

The structure is expected to bear some resemblance both in form and function to the NOCO pavilion at Sheridan Golf Course in the Town of Tonawanda.

Money to build it will come in the form of a grant for $866,970, approved by the local Greenway Host Community Standing Committee on Oct. 29.

Mayor Ron Pilozzi said in a written statement the money would be used for both the design and construction of the pavilion, which will function as an event center for use by the general public.

The money, allocated to Niagara County as a result of the New York Power Authority’s contributions in return for a 50-year license extension, was awarded after the project was deemed consistent with the state’s vision to upgrade and allocate park land along the banks of the Niagara River.

Many other such projects are being discussed and some are in the works by communities along the waterway.

The structure planned for Niawanda Park will be similar to the one in the Town, which was sponsored by NOCO and built by members of the department of Youth, Parks and Recreation more than a decade ago.

Located at 450 Ensminger Road that structure serves as a popular place for parties, weddings and the like, open all year. Reservations can be made by calling 831-1001.

Jeff Ehlers of the Town of Tonawanda parks department said weekends are usually booked solid for rentals and the pavilion is so popular waiting lists are common. It costs $250 per day, has a seating capacity of 135 and rustic cathedral ceilings. Reservations can be made on the first day of each month as far as a year in advance for the same month.

“It’s for the general public to use,” he said, stressing what’s probably most unique is that parks employees were knowledgeable enough to build it themselves.

The structure is built on the site of the Sheridan Golf Course’s old caddy house.

“We had enough skilled guys on our crew to take the lead and everyone else just jumped on the band wagon,” he said, noting contributions from NOCO paid for the materials.

Whether the city could go the same route is unknown. Pilozzi was out of town Friday and could not be reached to comment directly.

He noted in a press release that the project to build a similar structure at Niawanda Park has gotten moral support from local leaders and organizations like the Riverkeepers.

“I want to thank all of these organizations, especially NYPA, for their support for this project which will increase public access to the Niagara River and the options the public has in enjoying the river,” Pilozzi continued in his statement. “It is encouraging that revenue generated by the power project in Western New York is being used for a project like this, that will enhance the quality of life ...”

Contact reporter Neale Gulley at 693-1000, ext. 114.