Centennial Park Feasibility Review Still in Progress Says Niagara Falls Mayor
- Niagara Action
- May 14
- 2 min read
Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino has confirmed that the City is still waiting on a final version of a long-anticipated feasibility report for his proposed $165 million Centennial Park development. The assessment, being conducted by the Florida-based Sports Facilities Advisory LLC, was commissioned in 2024 to evaluate the viability of the large-scale sports and entertainment complex.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday at a press briefing held at the Cambria Hotel, Restaino described the current document as an incomplete draft. He said the consultants are continuing to refine key data points, including market demographics and financial projections, before presenting final conclusions to stakeholders.
The feasibility study will examine the potential economic impact of the multi-use venue which is envisioned to draw visitors from a regional population of roughly 15 million within a two-hour radius. However, it remains unclear whether the initial findings support or discourage moving forward with the project.
The analysis is being paid for through funds provided by Empire State Development and National Grid, with the consulting firm being retained at a cost of up to $146,000. When finalized, the report is expected to offer insight into the complex’s long-term sustainability, particularly as the city tries to improve its year-round tourism and event-hosting infrastructure.
Centennial Park, as envisioned by Restaino’s administration, would be anchored by a 6,000 to 7,000 seat arena. The broader site concept also includes a secondary arena for smaller events, a seasonal splash pad/ice rink, and a multi-level parking facility that would incorporate outdoor recreational features like a rock climbing wall and rooftop entertainment space.
The city has identified a 10-acre parcel at Falls Street and 10th Street as the desired site. However, ongoing legal disputes over ownership with Niagara Falls Redevelopment (NFR) have delayed acquisition efforts. Niagara Falls officials claim they already hold rights to half the site, alleging that NFR failed to legally convert those acres from state-owned parkland.
The total construction estimate submitted to federal officials in 2022 puts the project’s price tag at $165 million with $122 million of that projected to come from state sources. The land acquisition is expected to cost about $10 million.
While the proposed venue does not currently have a permanent sports team tenant, Restaino recently met with representatives from the Ontario Hockey League who are exploring expansion into the U.S. The league is reportedly considering Niagara Falls as a possible location for a new or relocated team.
Restaino indicated that the league has shown strong interest in bringing a franchise to the city if the arena materializes. While no formal agreement has been announced, the mayor characterized the talks as encouraging.
Centennial Park Feasibility Review Still in Progress Says Niagara Falls Mayor
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