Town of Orchard Park receives $120,000 federal grant to improve traffic and pedestrian safety around new Highmark Stadium
(WNY News Now) – WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Nick Langworthy (NY-23) announced that the Town of Orchard Park has been awarded $120,000 in federal funding to develop a Bills Stadium Safe Streets Action Plan aimed at improving transportation safety around the new Highmark Stadium.
The funding is provided through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program and will support a comprehensive study focused on pedestrian, bicycle, and motor vehicle safety in the stadium area, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.
According to Langworthy, the study will help Orchard Park plan for increased traffic and activity associated with the new stadium while prioritizing safety for residents and visitors throughout the year. The action plan will evaluate current roadway conditions and identify targeted infrastructure improvements designed to reduce fatal and serious-injury crashes.
The Safe Streets Action Plan will include an inventory of existing pedestrian and roadway infrastructure, design recommendations, project prioritization, and a phased implementation strategy. Proposed safety enhancements may include wider sidewalks, improved curb ramps, enhanced crosswalks, and other accessibility upgrades in areas surrounding the stadium.
Town of Orchard Park Supervisor Joe Liberti said the funding will support efforts to safely accommodate large volumes of fans while maintaining quality of life for local residents. Orchard Park has long served as home to the Buffalo Bills, and the new stadium is expected to increase year-round activity in the area.
The grant is administered by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of the Secretary and supports communities within New York’s 23rd Congressional District. Findings from the study will help guide future infrastructure investments and position the town to pursue additional funding for construction and safety improvements.
The SS4A program provides federal assistance to local governments to develop data-driven safety plans and implement strategies aimed at reducing roadway fatalities and serious injuries.
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