North Tonawanda is moving forward with plans for Tonawanda Island as VisoneCo prepares to establish the island's first residential complex.
The proposed "Bridge Street Landing" project, located at 78 Bridge Street, will consist of a three-story, 100,430 square-foot mixed-use building featuring 73 market-rate apartments, seven vacation rental units, and commercial space along the waterfront. The residential units will primarily include one and two bedroom apartments, along with a few three bedroom, and studio, options.
Earlier this month, the North Tonawanda City Council approved the sale of the land for $389,000, having selected VisoneCo as the preferred developer in January, ahead of competing proposals from Savarino Development and Nostra Development.
The total investment for the project is projected to be $21.9 million with the first residents expected to move in by the summer of 2028.
The 3.3-acre site is the only city-owned land on the island, which has previously served various functions, including firefighter training, lumber storage, and boat storage. The city’s vision for the area emphasizes high-density mixed-use development, as outlined in its Request for Proposals, the Brownfield Opportunity Program, and its master plan.
Currently, Tonawanda Island lacks any residential properties although it does feature the Shores Waterfront Restaurant, boat launches, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities.
City officials believe that residential development is crucial for enhancing the island's vibrancy. They noted that while downtown revitalization efforts have progressed there is a need to create connections between these developments and the waterfront.
As part of a $10 million allocation from the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, $750,000 will be dedicated to enhancing the riverside area of the site creating a public benefit space that will be accessible to all, not just residents of Bridge Street.
As city attorneys finalize the sale, VisoneCo will proceed with applying for state assistance through the Brownfield Cleanup Program, without seeking funding from the state Department of Homes and Community Renewal.
If all goes according to plan, construction on Bridge Street Landing could begin in June 2026 with the project expected to receive its occupancy certificate by June 2028.
North Tonawanda Approves Sale of Island Land for New Apartment Development