Niagara County Legislature approves $316,000 for Gratwick Park upgrades

The Niagara County Legislature last week unanimously approved $316,000 to support North Tonawanda’s effort to upgrade Gratwick-Riverside Park.

The funding was secured through a settlement agreement between Niagara County, the Niagara Power Coalition, and the New York Power Authority, which allows the county to receive up to $390,000 annually to fund projects that are found to be consistent with Niagara Greenway projects along the Greenway Trail.

The City of North Tonawanda has made major improvements to its parks, and with this newly approved funding to support the Gratwick-Riverside Park project, there will be an installation of two 30-foot Americans with Disabilities Act portable restroom trailers, and two pavilions equipped with modern furnishings.

Three Republican members of the Niagara County Legislature from North Tonawanda said they are directing their efforts toward waterfront development.

“As a former city councilman, I was there when the state finished rehabilitating the park. Since that time, I have fought to seek continued improvement at Gratwick and the entire waterfront in N.T.,” said Legislator Rich Andres. “These investments have been the reason why North Tonawanda has become a true waterfront destination.”

“I know firsthand what an amazing park this is as, each summer, I organize the very popular ‘Thursdays On The Water,’ which hosts concerts, car shows and food trucks,” added Legislator Jesse Gooch. “I’m pleased to see continued investment to make it more of a destination for residents and visitors alike.”

“The county has shown continued investment in North Tonawanda’s waterfront as it has done with the marina and bandshell at Raymond Klimek Veteran’s Park,” stated Legislator Randy Bradt. “Whether it’s along the river or canal, our waterfront has the potential to become one of the most desired destinations in the region.”