More exciting news has been shared in regards to the future of the DL&W Terminal planned to reopen to the heart of Buffalo’s Cobblestone District in 2027. Construction of the historical former train terminal is officially underway and is led by Savarino DL&W Development LLC in partnership with the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA).
They have recently announced the restoration of Phoebe’s Coach, which is a coach car that was once part of DL&W’s flagship passenger fleet. Phoebes Coach was built by Pullman Company in 1949, and before being acquired by Savarino DL&W Development LLC in October 2024, it was located in the Medina Railroad Museum.
Photo Credit: Buffalo DL&W Terminal
Due to the poor condition of this historic coach car, it was on the way to the scrapyard, but it will now be given new life in the DL&W Terminal. There are plans for Phoebes Coach to be restored, lifted to the second floor, and be put to use as a static structure for the Buffalo community to enjoy. After it is restored, there are talks of Phoebes Coach being used as a sound booth, green room, or an outdoor bar. This important piece of rail history was nearly lost, but it will not be displayed for the Buffalo Community to enjoy.
When construction is completed, DL&W Terminal will host a variety of events, both free and ticketed. Savarino DL&W Development LLC has provided a detailed sample event calendar for the DL&W Project that provides an estimated list of events during the fall season. There is a key on the lefthand side of the calendar that shows where each event would be located and if the event is free, ticketed, or family-friendly. Some of these events include workout classes, crafting workshops, trivia nights, and even a wine and jazz club. In addition there will be watch parties for Bills and Sabres games and of course plenty of food options. Savarino DL&W Development LLC claim that the mix of events for the DL&W Project is both essential and intentional for the project’s success. After all, they are programming for a large group of people including families, downtown workers, students, visitors, and the people who live along the Metro Rail.
Photo Credit: Buffalo DL&W Terminal
The DL&W Terminal will be a great addition to Buffalo’s Cobblestone District and as construction continues to progress, with this new sample event calendar now posted, the Buffalo community has some amazing events and experiences to look forward to.
Sources: https://www.dlandwbuffalo.com/blog/programming-and-events
https://www.dlandwbuffalo.com/blog/phoebes-coach-restoration-buffalo