As first posted in http://www.bizjournals.com/buffalo/

Malcolm Pirnie Inc.'s search for new office space has ended with the Orchard Park-based firm deciding to move its operations into downtown Buffalo.

The environmental engineering firm has signed a long-term lease to occupy 10,000-square-feet in the north tower of the Key Center at Fountain Plaza complex. Malcolm Pirnie will move 55 workers into Key Center this November.

"Buffalo is the centerpiece of the Western New York community and this change of location is consistent with our firm's desire to plat a part in and build on the momentum for the resurgence and redevelopment of downtown Buffalo," said John Amend, Malcolm Pirnie vice president.

The move is considered a major win for downtown Buffalo as the firm had considered a number of sites including suburban locations, according to Robert Schell, president of NAI Pyramid Brokerage Co. of Buffalo.

"It represents another sign in the growth of downtown," said Michael Schmand, Buffalo Place Inc. executive director.

Malcolm Pirnie will be moving a team of engineers, scientists, management consultants and support staff to Key Center once they complete the move later this fall. The firm is currently located on Centre Drive in Orchard Park.

Besides its 55 person staff, Malcolm Pirnie may be considering an expansion of the Buffalo office that could result in additional staff being hired.

"It is a strong indicator of how things are going in the city when a company like Malcolm Pirnie decides to move from Orchard Park to downtown Buffalo," said Robert McDonnell, vice president of sales for Ciminelli Real Estate Corp. Ciminelli handles the leasing and management of the Key Center twin towers project.

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown said he hopes to use Malcolm Pirnie's decision as the basis and foundation for pitching downtown Buffalo to other potential office users and tenants.

"We will continue to seek ways to encourage businesses such as Malcolm Pirnie to establish their business operations in the heart of the city," Brown said.

Malcolm Pirnie began its local operations more than 30 years ago, beginning with a single-person office. The firm has handled a number of high profile environmental projects including the Erie County Water Authority's water treatment plant in Tonawanda, work on the authority's "big, blue tower" in Amherst and the redevelopment of Buffalo Lakeside Commerce Park



Lets talk about what can be done to bring in outside business. Any thoughts?