After three years of construction, the new Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park is ready for primetime. The ribbon was cut on the home of the Buffalo Bills late last month and the team will hold its first major event there in a couple of weeks. The state-of-the-art facility will help ensure the team stays in Buffalo for the next 30 years and has the potential to spur economic development in the area.

The 60,108-seat stadium is the largest construction project in WNY history with about 6,000 workers logging five million hours during the building process. The stadium is in the heart of the 60th NYS Senate District and, therefore, I participated in frequent tours of the site to monitor progress. It was remarkable to watch the building take shape, and I congratulate all the professional men and women involved for completing the project on schedule.    

This massive $2.1 billion public-private undertaking would not have been possible without substantial investments by New York State and Erie County. The taxpayer contribution totaled $850 million. Based on a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis, estimated income and sales tax revenue to be generated over the life of the stadium lease will more than offset the public investment. Obviously, the Bills have also made a significant investment in the new stadium, which demonstrates an important commitment to the Buffalo community.

Given the taxpayer’s support, I am happy the team is giving residents a chance to see the new stadium without having to buy a game ticket. An open practice is scheduled for August 18, and the team says behind the scenes tours of the facility are coming soon. In the meantime, I encourage you to drive by the stadium, visit the Family Circle outside the main entrance, and take a picture with the giant bison sculptures. Whether you are a Bills fan or not, I think you will be impressed.        

Now that the new stadium is finished and has been turned over to the state, demolition of what was originally Rich Stadium continues in earnest. Many of us have fond memories of attending games or concerts there and it is sad to see it go, but after 50 years it is time for something new.   

I am also optimistic the new stadium will lead to additional development, making the area around the stadium a year-round attraction. While such development never materialized around the old stadium, things are different now. The Bills have expressed an interest in holding more events, making the stadium a destination even when the team is not playing. Likewise, officials in both Orchard Park and Hamburg are taking steps to attract private-sector investment, including hotels and restaurants. The nearby, 100-acre SUNY ECC South Campus holds enormous potential for future development.

The Buffalo Bills have a long and proud history in WNY, and the new Highmark Stadium ensures a bright future for the franchise, its fans, and the region. Let’s hope the team can bring a Super Bowl trophy home soon. Go Bills.