Larkin-Exchange, 95 Perry, AC Lofts, Tri-Main, Art Space, Warehouse Lofts, Remington Lofts, UB’s M Wile Building. All of these buildings are historic daylight factories that at one time were vacant buildings that were on the brink of demolition – just like our Trico Plant on Goodell St.

Today all of these projects are our economic engines and success stories. They are our houses, our offices, our bars and restaurants. These are award winning projects recognized for preservation, sustainability and adaptive reuse from organizations statewide.

These projects have helped to cast a new light on Buffalo and inspire others to think positive about our Queen City. These once considered risky projects, have now spurred an incredible amount of spin off investment across the City. From comedy clubs to more downtown residential units, concert series to new retail and restaurants, we find ourselves in a new city – a rejuvenated Buffalo –  one that has a billion dollars worth of projects in the pipeline, increasing property values and more excitement than many have seen in decades.

Trico Plant # 1 is sitting in the best area of the City that is growing the most – our medical campus. We cannot ask it to be in a better location. It’s designated developer (the BNMC) has over one billion dollars of development in current and future projects. If anyone in this region has the money to rehab this building and create the spin off developments seen in the other projects, it is the BNMC.

Trico has a chance to become our next economic engine. In its current state it is a national landmark, making it eligible for 40% tax credits – something that only a few buildings mentioned above had the advantage of having. It’s unique, open floor plan makes it easy to reuse for several use types including office, residential and lab space – all three uses that the BNMC is in need of. It can also be used partially for a parking garage, which could alleviate issues in the Fruit Belt as parking becomes more stressful in that area.

Trico deserves to be a part of the resurgence of Buffalo. It’s bones are solid, its owner is financially capable and its location is perfect. Rehabbing and reusing the Trico building will help to add to our continued success as a region and help strengthen our City core.

Take a minute to write your common council member. Tell he/she to landmark this building on 4/30/2013. Use this letter, if you need a template.