11/16/2006

from 28 Coe Place...

I fell in love with Coe Place more than 10 years ago. A good friend lived on Coe - urban planner, bicycle mechanic, voracious reader and bread maker - introduced me to Paul Theroux and re-affirmed the importance of V.S. Naipaul's critique on various global issues - and reminded me of the importance of establishing a sense of place. He helped me see the street and neighborhood's potential despite the neglect and struggle and did all of this at a time when I needed it most.

It so happens that two of the most exciting and pivotal projects in the recent history of Buffalo were conceived and are beginning to appear at the same time - Artspace and Performing Arts HS - sort of sister projects that present a unique promise of re-establishing the City's near East side. One near Coe Place and the other across from my spot in Cold Springs, just a few blocks apart.

The City's Preservation Board has already agreed to help block the demolition of 28 Coe Place. I'll work very hard with anyone who has a plan, probably about 30-40K in financing to turn the place around. Let me know.

Geoff Kelly has a nice piece about Tuesday's action on Coe Place in the most recent issue of Artvoice called, Sleeper Cell! Mark Odien, from WNYmedia.net dropped by after midnight for an interview. Here's his post and the Youtube video - very cool Mark. Thanks. Gabe has Chained to Coe up over at BuffaloRising.

The important thing now is to find someone who wants to make 28 Coe Place home. Stop by and take a look!

Thank you to everyone who stopped by to say hello the other night. Nice socks for my toes, spicy cider from Coe Place neighbors, awesome clam chowder from the Sonic Cafe and mozzarella sticks from BK.

Will stay with this one...
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Artspace ArchiveAnnals of NeglectBAVPAWhere is Perrysburg?Broken Promises...
Writing the CityWoodlawn Row HousesTour dé Neglect - 2006faqmy flickr
buffalo olmsted parks conservancy

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Well done David (and friends)!

fixBuffalo said...

Bruce, inspired by conversations with you years, years ago...thanks.

Very good to be working with others here, who are way closer to the shadow cast by MBBA's cloud over Buffalo than me...