Save the Allied Mills Grain Elevator!

The Allied Mills Complex is nominated for local landmark status. This complex, located north of Red Jacket Park at One Buffalo River Place, is a rare example of early 20th century industrial architecture and a testament to Buffalo's rich milling heritage. The Allied Mills Complex is a visual landmark of the Valley and part of Buffalo's unrivaled collection of grain elevators and mills that make up the established character of our city's waterfront.  The complex consists of several interconnected buildings that reflect different phases of expansion and modernization, and together, they form a cohesive and impressive ensemble that tells the story of Buffalo's role in the regional and national grain trade.

 

The State Historic Preservation Office in 2021 determined the Allied Mills Complex to be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places and, by extension, the historic tax credit program. The historic tax credit program would enable an up to 40% credit on eligible rehabilitation expenses for restoration. Any demolition on the site would imperil the National Register eligibility status of the Allied Mills Complex and the historic tax credits that are likely required to make any reuse of the complex financially feasible. By designating the complex as a local landmark, we can preserve this site for future generations of Buffalonians and support our local economy.

Preservation Buffalo Niagara has nominated the complex as a local landmark and the Buffalo Preservation Board is reviewing the application on September 7th, 2023 at their meeting. If the board approves the nomination, the Common Council will then hold a public hearing and vote on the designation.

 

We need your voice to make sure that the Allied Mills Complex is protected and preserved for future generations. We have prepared a letter of support template that you can use to express your support for the landmark designation and urge the Buffalo Common Council and the Buffalo Preservation Board to vote in favor of it.  

 

We need your help to show your support for this landmark designation. We have prepared a letter of support template that you can fill out and send to the Buffalo Common Council and the Buffalo Preservation Board. The letter template explains why the complex is significant and how it can contribute to the revitalization and identity of Buffalo's waterfront and industrial heritage. You can also add your own personal stories or experiences related to the complex.

Together, we can preserve Buffalo's past and shape its future.

 

Sincerely,

Preservation Buffalo Niagara

 

 

You can also copy your local district council member and council president on your letter. You can find your district council member here and their contact information here.

Please send your letter as soon as possible, preferably before September 7th, 2023. Written comments must be submitted and received at least 24 hours before the meeting. Every letter counts and makes a difference in saving our historic resources.

You or a representative may participate in a Preservation Board meeting either in person at City Hall Room 901, or by video conference at the following Webex link: https://buffalony.webex.com/buffalony/j.php?MTID=mce68892520b84900536fb86956b4011d

Alternatively go to www.webex.com or call 1-415-655-0001

  • Webex meeting number: 173 804 3655
  • Password: HistReview (not required for phone)

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Contact Information
Locally Landmark Allied Mills

Dear [elected official],

I am writing to express my strong support for the designation of the Allied Mills Inc. Complex at 1 Buffalo River Place as a local landmark. This complex serves as a significant historic and architectural resource that represents an important part of Buffalo’s industrial heritage and deserves to be preserved and reused for the benefit of the community. The complex played an important role in the city’s expanding grain industries during the twentieth century, as it stored, processed, and shipped animal feed across the nation. The complex consists of several interconnected buildings that reflect different phases of expansion and modernization. The buildings contain a substantial amount of the original materials, equipment, and an interior plan that clearly conveys the buildings’ original functions and their significant role in the history of the milling industry in Buffalo. The complex is not only a historic asset, but also a potential catalyst for revitalization as exemplified by the adaptive reuse of Silo City and the Kreiner Malt House & Grain Elevator, successfully rehabilitated in the same neighborhood at 50 Elk Street. The Allied Mills Complex and the Kreiner Malt House are important components of the cultural identity of the Valley neighborhood. The complex can be transformed into a mixed-use development that can provide housing, retail, office, and cultural spaces for the community, while preserving its historic character and integrity and promoting economic progress. I urge the Common Council and Preservation Board to recognize the value of the Allied Mills Complex by designating the site as a local landmark. By doing so, you can contribute to the economic resurgence and cultural identity of Buffalo’s Valley neighborhood. By granting it landmark status, you will protect its historic character and significance from any inappropriate changes or alterations. You will also support adaptive reuse projects that can improve the economic, social, and cultural vitality of the area. With this landmark designation, you will honor the legacy of the workers, engineers, architects, and entrepreneurs who made this complex a successful and innovative enterprise in Buffalo’s history. Please support the local landmark designation of the Allied Mills Inc. Complex. By voting in favor of the local landmark status, you can help save this important part of Buffalo's heritage and invest in our city’s future. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely, [Your information here]