Buffalo aims to join growing Great Lakes cruise industry as New York State issues RFP for state-of-the-art terminal at Slip 2

Buffalo, New York – In an ambitious move to further enhance tourism and economic development, Governor Kathy Hochul announced the issuance of a Request for Proposals (RFP) aimed at establishing a new cruise terminal on Buffalo’s Outer Harbor. This initiative, spearheaded by the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC), seeks to capitalize on the growing interest in Great Lakes cruises, with the potential for Buffalo to become a new port of call by 2027.

The announcement marks a significant step in the state’s efforts to develop Buffalo as a key player in the burgeoning Great Lakes cruise industry. The proposed terminal, planned for Slip 2, is envisioned as a state-of-the-art facility that will cater to both domestic and international travelers.

The development plans include substantial upgrades to the existing infrastructure, such as seawall shoring, site remediation, and the addition of public access points, landscaping, drainage, and lighting enhancements. Additionally, the project will feature the construction of one or two small buildings intended for customs processing and public amenities.

“Adding Buffalo as a terminal on a Great Lakes cruise itinerary is a tremendous opportunity for the City of Buffalo and Western New York,” Governor Hochul said. “Buffalo is well-positioned as a destination in the growing industry, allowing the city and region to benefit from the increased visitors and resulting positive economic impact. New York State is committed to providing the facilities needed to accommodate the cruise operations and ensure smooth sailing ahead,” Governor Hochul said.

The decision to move forward with this project follows a comprehensive Market Demand Study conducted by ECHDC in 2024, which identified Buffalo’s potential as a significant destination for Great Lakes cruise lines. The study pointed to Slip 2’s south berth space as the ideal location for the new terminal, citing its proximity to the site of the former Pier Restaurant, which was demolished in 2007. This area is part of a broader revitalization strategy that has already seen the transformation of nearby sites such as Bell Slip and Wilkeson Pointe.

The growth of the Great Lakes cruise sector is evident in the rising passenger numbers, which have nearly tripled since 2010, reaching over 25,000 in 2023. Post-COVID, the industry is expected to see continued growth in the number of passengers, vessels, and revenues. Cities like Cleveland, Milwaukee, Duluth, and Detroit are already benefiting from this trend. Buffalo’s strategic location at the southern end of the Welland Canal, which serves as the only entry point from the St. Lawrence River into the Great Lakes, positions it as an ideal stopover or homeport location.

The initiative is part of Governor Hochul’s ongoing efforts to promote the Buffalo waterfront as a priority area for development. This includes several projects slated for completion by Memorial Day, such as the Wilkeson Pointe Improvement Project and the Gateway Building at Canalside, as well as the upcoming Waterway of Change exhibit at the Longshed.

The ECHDC, a subsidiary of Empire State Development, is at the forefront of these efforts, working to attract private investment and enhance public enjoyment of Buffalo’s waterfront. The corporation is governed by a board of directors appointed by the New York State Urban Development Corporation and includes representatives from Erie County and the City of Buffalo. This strategic vision is aimed at revitalizing Western New York’s waterfront by leveraging its urban significance and natural beauty, restoring economic growth to the region.