Originally Posted by
gorja
Here's an article from last September's Bee
Updates on Dawson Field involve Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper
September 27, 2018
by AMY STULICK Editor
Depew Superintendent Jeffrey Rabey gave a quick update on Dawson Field at the school district’s September board meeting.
With the help of the Village of Depew, district officials have been working with the Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper to pursue funding for the acquisition of the Dawson Field parcel, according to Rabey.
“Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper is currently meeting with some private foundations and hopefully will have something to report soon,” said Rabey during his superintendent’s report.
The field, located between Scajaquada Creek and a tributary, is a “priority site” to ease stormwater entering municipal sewers, causing overflows into the creek, Depew’s superintendent added.
“Protection of this site will also ensure community access to green space, allow the creation of educational opportunities, and limit development on park space within the Scajaquada Creek watershed,” Rabey said.
Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper hopes the project to clean up Scajaquada Creek, which would involve Dawson Field as a focus area, helps alleviate issues such as sewage and stormwater runoff, botulism, altered hydrology, toxic contamination, degraded habitat and limited public access.
The district hopes project sponsorships will allow a partnership among the district, village, Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper and other partners not mentioned in the superintendent’s report to purchase and acquire Dawson Field and transfer the title to the Village of Depew.
Once a title transfer occurs, the village will be able to implement green infrastructure and develop educational programs for the community.
The next Depew School Board meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 16, at Depew High School, 5201 Transit Road.