FRIENDS OF THE MILL – SITE PROPOSAL

SLIDE #1

The Williamsville Water Mill, the iconic structure of the village, has confounded both politicians and developers alike as to what its destiny should be.  “Friends of the Mill” is putting forth this proposal in the best sense of civic duty.  We do not profess to any extraordinary vision or insider information, nor to an opportunity to make financial gain.  Our development plan merely attempts to address some of the issues that make the mill such a knotty issue for the Village, and to find solutions that will ensure its future for generations to come.  

SLIDE #2

Betty Murphy  (nee Niedelander) once remarked that the Mill, as restored by her parents, was never intended to be a money maker.  Perhaps by itself this is true, but when used in conjunction with other structures maybe it can “earn its keep”.

 Our plan, while maintaining the integrity of all three historical structures on the property, would link them to newer buildings which we feel will enhance the commercial success of the area.

 SLIDES #3 - 6

Early on, it came to our attention that one key element was missing from the Mill environs - PARKING.  With events such as a Farmer’s Market, General Store, etc.; where do people park?  A quick look at consultant reports attests to this deficiency.  Therefore the first issue we dealt with was parking.

 SLIDES #7 - 9

We noticed that the Glen Falls Park behind the Mill had a section which seemed to have minimal visitors.  The northeast corner of Spring and Rock Streets is isolated from the main attractions of the park.  We propose using this area for a three tier parking facility.  Tier one is accessed at street-level from Glen Avenue near Rock Street .  The second tier is entered from the hill on Rock Street .  The third tier is open air and the same elevation as Spring Street, from which it is entered.  We believe this structure would accommodate 100 vehicles or more.

 SLIDES #10 - 11

The exterior wall of the parking structure is executed in concrete to simulate natural stone of the escarpment.  Berms or backfill can be reconfigured to give a natural appearance to the site.  As visualized in our presentation, the upper level will be walled using stone (faux?).  An exposed stairway would provide access between the decks and the park.  Stairs and elevator would also be located at the structure’s southwest corner.

 SLIDES #12 - 14

A walkway or concourse along the serpentine side will face the park.  We further visualize a walkway (brick) from the upper level to the Mill.  This walk could be lantern lit and lined with bench seating.

 SLIDES #15 - 16

The concourse would extend from the parking building, behind the Glen Park Apartments to the north end of the Mill.  Another stair system to the park would be located here.  Behind the eastern end of the concourse we have placed a gazebo or band stand structure.  Open air shelter and bridge covering would protect the upper tier walkway from the elements.  The entire area is now open for business.

SLIDES #17 – 21

We envision this complex to be an event-oriented center to be rented in part or entirely.  Some examples; farmers market along the west end of the concourse with vendors able to back into spaces adjacent to the open air sheltered walkway; arts and craft shows; weddings and reunions along the eastern concourse (using the Mill itself for guests); outdoor theatrical and musical performances in the natural amphitheater created by the serpentine wall and winter ice skating events.

 SLIDES #22 – 23

While the Mill itself might not be the focal point of an event, its presence is value added for any visitor.  It remains open for specialty impulse shopping, a village museum and educational center.

SLIDES #24 – 27

The Village of Williamsville has been blessed by the existence of this unique structure.  It is one of only a handful of traditional water mills still in operating condition in the nation.  We should take advantage of this.  Area schools could come to experience the technology of yesteryear.  To this end, it would be important to have the previous owner instruct others as to the operation and maintenance of the mill equipment.  Furthermore a more consistent and secure water source may be necessary.  With this in mind, we recommend connecting the exposed sluice to the creek between the Falls and the Main Street bridge.  If we could get the old place into working order, we could not only generate electricity (we understand a 100 horse-turn of the century turbine exists) but its operation would be a real attraction locally, regionally and nationally (This Old Mill Documentary).

SLIDE #28

The two adjacent buildings will need some rehab work, but they too will become more desirable with the increase in pedestrian traffic.  Office space, tavern, bed and breakfast, retail shops; all are good possibilities.  The use of the Glen Park Apartments may also change.  Certainly it’s value would be enhanced.

SLIDES #29 – 35

We believe this exciting opportunity could be tackled in stages, so as not to interrupt current traffic and businesses in the area.  At the first phase of development would be the completion of the three tiered parking facility including the walkway with stairs to the park level.  Phase Two would include extending the serpentine concourse behind the Glen Apartments to connect at the Mill.  This phase would also see the completion of the second stairway system to access the park from the Mill side of the development area.  The third phase would construct the open air shelter over the concourse as well as the covered bridge structure.  During phase four, the gazebo/bandstand structure would be constructed.  Phase five would add a building to the northwest end of the Spring Street level parking area.  This building would have multiple uses, including (but not limited to) restrooms, storage, office, parking stairs/elevator and a lookout point.  The connection of the existing exposed sluice to the creek could be included in the final phase in the redevelopment of this site.

Our humble proposal is purposely not specific in nature as to the development of the Mill and surrounding areas.  Our intention is not to micromanage with a business plan doomed for failure.  But rather offer an outline that creates a traffic, business and people friendly situation.  A deepened commercial area beyond the confines of Main Street should offer opportunities for business people to prosper here.  Increased parking should be attractive to existing businesses and help during other community events. 

 Who are the Friends of the Mill?

 Founder and inspirational leader:  Robert T. Bronkie, Jr. is a Williamsville native.  Living in Marilla , NY he still has strong ties to the area.  Robert is in the lumber business and spends much of his time driving up and down the eastern part of the country talking on a cell phone.

 Cofounder and Designer of Presentation:  David G. Miller, also a Williamsville native, is a bit of a hermit.  He tinkers on the computer, has a friendly dog, but doesn’t own or operate a cell phone.  

For more info  contact  Tom Young