Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon Announces Selection of Development Teams for Legacy Cities RFP
Launched in June, the RFP invited homebuilders to submit proposals to purchase and develop 51 vacant city-owned parcels;
City advances next phase of affordable housing in Hamlin Park and Masten Park
Buffalo, NY — Just a few short months after announcing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to bring new affordable, owner-occupied homes to Buffalo’s Hamlin Park and Masten Park neighborhoods, Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon today announced the selection of development teams that will move forward under the City’s Legacy Cities RFP initiative.
Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon
Launched in June, the RFP invited homebuilders to submit proposals to purchase and develop 51 vacant city-owned parcels — marking a new chapter in how the City partners with residents to plan for neighborhood revitalization. Following an extensive review and scoring process by the Office of Strategic Planning (OSP) several local developers and community-based organizations have been approved to advance into Designated Developer Agreement (DDA) negotiations with the City.
The selected teams include:
Five Star Roofing Consultants & Services
Belmont Housing Resources for WNY
Ellicott Development
Habitat for Humanity Buffalo
People United for Sustainable Housing (PUSH) Buffalo
“The strong response from homebuilders shows real interest and renewed confidence in building housing in the City of Buffalo and in my administration’s vision,” said City of Buffalo Mayor Christopher P. Scanlon. “Just a few months ago, we called on our local partners to help reimagine how Buffalo reinvests in its neighborhoods. Today, that call has been answered with thoughtful, community-driven proposals that will deliver real results for families in Hamlin Park, Masten Park, and beyond.”
“This milestone is the result of deep collaboration — with residents, neighborhood organizations, and developers who share a commitment to building a more inclusive Buffalo,” said Nadine Marrero, Executive Director of Planning & Strategic Development. “By advancing these proposals, we’re not just building homes — we’re investing in people, partnerships, and the long-term strength of our neighborhoods.”
Masten District Council Woman Zeneta Everhart said, “Today marks a major step forward in the revitalization of the Masten Park and Hamlin Park neighborhoods. By working in partnership with the local developers and community-based organizations announced today, we are turning vacant space into opportunity, providing not only dozens of homes for our neighbors, but also creating more vibrant, thriving communities for all our residents. I thank Mayor Scanlon and the Office of Strategic Planning for their commitment to community-driven redevelopment in the Masten District and across our great city.”
Each team’s proposal reflects a unique approach to creating high-quality, energy-efficient, and affordable homes while aligning with neighborhood goals. Collectively, these projects represent dozens of new housing opportunities that will transform long-vacant lots into pathways for homeownership, investment, and stability in historic East Side neighborhoods.
The RFP was announced in tandem with Mayor Scanlon’s proposed Citywide Homestead Plan, which would make eligible vacant lots available for purchase at a flat rate of $1,000 to encourage homeownership, yard expansions, and community gardens. A public hearing on the Homestead Plan will take place on Wednesday, November 5th, before the Buffalo Common Council, offering residents and stakeholders the opportunity to share feedback on the proposal.
The Legacy Cities program reflects an 18-month community planning process with technical support from the Lincoln Institute of Land Policy. Through this process, the City has created a model for equitable, small-scale redevelopment that prioritizes affordability, sustainability, and resident engagement.
The City of Buffalo will continue to work closely with residents and community partners as Designated Developer Agreements are finalized, and pre-development work begins in the months ahead. Construction is expected to begin in 2026.
For more information about the Legacy Cities initiative, visit www.buffalony.gov/LegacyCities