USAN Announces Completion of Old Falls Street Play Pod in Niagara Falls

Interim installation is aimed at activating the space ahead of future development

See pictures here

USA Niagara Development Corporation (USAN) today announced the completion of the Old Falls Street Play Pod, a new vibrant public space at the corner of Old Falls Street and First Street in Niagara Falls. Featuring shade, seating, games and lighting, this interim installation brings new life and amenities to the corner while future development plans for the site are considered. See pictures here.

"Under Governor Hochul's leadership, USAN is deeply committed to transforming underutilized properties into vibrant, engaging spaces in downtown Niagara Falls," said USA Niagara Development Corporation President Anthony Vilardo. "While we look forward to the future permanent development of this site-including the ongoing progress at The Nest-the Old Falls Street Play Pod brings new life to this corridor. By introducing creative seating, interactive lighting, and family-friendly amenities, we are creating a welcoming destination for residents and visitors to enjoy right now."

Located at 102 Old Falls Street-on property acquired by USAN's Strategic Land Acquisition Program-the Play Pod transforms the vacant space created by the demolition of the former Falls Street Station (previously home to the Pleasuredome nightclub and a Teletech company customer service center). While construction is already underway on the northern portion of the site for The Nest, a new $39.5 million mixed-use development, the southern portion awaits future development. The Play Pod acts as an engaging interim installation on the site for use by residents and visitors alike.

The project components include:

• Shade Structure: A fabric shade structure installed at the corner of the site provides relief from the sun for visitors.
• Architectural Features and Seating: An undulating 8-foot-tall wood privacy fence runs along Old Falls Street, connecting to a 16-foot temporary structure at the corner of Old Falls Street and First Street. It features small areas along the facade for benches and planters. The taller section at the corner features tiered bench seating, a repurposed mural, and lighting.
• Site Amenities: The site features tables, chairs, games, and benches, alongside playful, modern elements including new LED seesaws and swings.

"It's important that we continue the momentum the city has experienced of late with the groundbreaking of The Nest, the most recent announcement regarding the various development projects along the North Main Street corridor and now the completion of the Old Falls Street Play Pod," said Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino. "Creating welcoming spaces for residents and tourists alike is critical to getting more people to our city and I want to thank Governor Hochul and USA Niagara Development Corp. in their ongoing efforts for supporting these types of attractions to do just that."

Niagara Falls-based full-service general and specialty contracting company Scott Lawn Yard served as the project contractor.

About USA Niagara Development Corporation
USAN, a subsidiary of Empire State Development, is solely dedicated to the support and promotion of economic development initiatives in Niagara Falls by leveraging private investment and encouraging growth and renewal of the tourism industry in the City of Niagara Falls. More information is available here.

Contact:

Pamm Lent (ESD) | [email protected] | (716) 846-8309 | (800) 260-7313
Laura Magee (ESD) | [email protected] | (716) 846-8239 | (800) 260-7313