Lock In Buffalo - Episode 18: Darryl Carr on Eminent Domain, Cobblestone & Buffalo Development

What really happened in the battle over Buffalo’s Cobblestone District — and what does it say about development in the city?On Episode 18 of Lock in Buffalo, Michael Nanula sits down with Buffalo developer and business owner Darryl Carr for an in-depth conversation about his history in Buffalo real estate, his properties in the Cobblestone District, and the years-long dispute surrounding their future.Carr shares his perspective on acquiring and attempting to redevelop the properties, the condition of the buildings, his proposed development plans, historic preservation, interactions with City Hall, and the eminent-domain process involving his South Park Avenue properties.The conversation also goes beyond one development project. Darryl discusses the challenges of investing in Buffalo, working through the development process, public incentives and subsidies, preservation versus redevelopment, and what he believes needs to change to encourage investment in the city.In this episode:Darryl Carr’s background in business and Buffalo real estateHow he became involved in the Cobblestone DistrictThe history and condition of his South Park Avenue propertiesHis original vision for redeveloping the siteHistoric preservation and rehabilitation challengesHis interactions with the City of BuffaloThe eminent-domain disputeWhy the proposed project never moved forwardTax incentives and public subsidies for developmentThe challenges facing developers in BuffaloDarryl’s perspective on the future of the Cobblestone DistrictWhat Buffalo can do to encourage development while protecting its historyThis episode presents Darryl Carr’s perspective on a long-running and contested Buffalo development issue. Where the conversation addresses disputes involving the City of Buffalo or other parties, statements reflect the views and recollections of the speaker.🎙️ Lock in Buffalo brings you conversations with the people shaping Buffalo and Western New York — from business and real estate to government, development, neighborhoods and the community.Hosted by Michael NanulaPowered by CrossCountry Mortgage BuffaloIf you enjoy the episode, subscribe to Lock in Buffalo, like the video, and drop your thoughts in the comments.Let’s Lock In. 🔒🦬