KEY PROJECT COMPONENTS:

• Draft Generic Environmental Impact Statement (Draft GEIS)

• 6 NYCRR Part 617 Compliance 

• Natural Resources

• Infrastructure

• Hazardous Materials

• Solid Waste and Sanitation Services

• Transportation

• Air Quality

• Noise

• Growth Inducing Aspects 

• Cumulative Impacts

• Evaluation and Comparison of Alternatives

• Mitigation Strategies

The University at Buffalo (UB) recently prepared a Comprehensive Physical Plan to guide the growth and development of the University in support of its plan for academic excellence.  The plan (also known as “UB 2020”) will expand and enhance UB’s facilities at its three existing campuses —including North Campus in the Town of Amherst, and the South and Downtown Campuses in the City of Buffalo— to accommodate a projected additional 10,000 students, 1,000 faculty, and 2,750 staff by the year 2030.  The Plan redistributes academic programs and growth to create a distinct identity and mission for each campus.

Assessment of environmental impacts was reviewed in accordance with New York State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) 6 NYCRR Part 617 as the Generic Environmental Impact Statement (GEIS). The Draft GEIS was an analytical assessment of all the program elements described in UB’s Comprehensive Physical Plan and the potential assets that could be impacted by the proposed project.

TVGA assisted with preparation of the Draft GEIS to facilitate the adoption of the UB 2020 Plan.  Specifically, TVGA drafted chapters related to Cumulative Impacts, Evaluation and Comparison of Alternatives, and Mitigation Strategies. TVGA also assisted with completion of these Draft GEIS chapters: Archaeological Resources, Natural Resource, Infrastructure, Hazardous Materials, Solid Waste and Sanitation Services, Energy, Transportation, Air Quality, Noise, and Growth Inducing Aspects.

TVGA worked closely with UB’s Environmental Review Committee during the completion stages of the Draft GEIS process.  There were several agencies involved in this SEQR review, with SUNY/UB as the Lead Agency.  These agencies included: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; DASNY; NYSOPRHP; NYSDEC; NYSDOT; GBNRTC; NFTA; Erie County; City of Buffalo; Buffalo Preservation Board; Town of Amherst; and New York Power Authority.