Grand Island has been quietly at the center of some of the biggest development stories in the 716, and 2026 is shaping up to be a turning point. Between a $100 million mixed-use project moving forward and 207 acres of land returning to the Seneca Nation, the island's future is being written right now. Here's what you need to know.

Rivertown Center: A Real Town Center for Grand Island

For years, Grand Island residents have talked about wanting a walkable downtown — somewhere with shops, restaurants, and a sense of community identity, like what you'd find in East Aurora or Lewiston. The Rivertown Center project is designed to be exactly that. Developers Frank Chinnici and Roger Trettel have been working on a plan to transform about 26 acres along Grand Island Boulevard and Baseline Road into a mixed-use neighborhood featuring over 300 apartments and townhomes, around 30,000 square feet of commercial space, walking paths, parks, and even a dedicated senior center. The Town Board approved the rezoning, and Rivertown Center Holdings has been assembling parcels. Construction completion is targeted for late 2026 or into 2027. It's the kind of project that could finally give Grand Island a heart — a place where neighbors run into each other grabbing coffee or walking the dog.

207 Acres Return to the Seneca Nation

In one of the most significant land stories in recent memory, Acquest Development donated 207 acres between Long Road and Bedell Road to the Seneca Nation of Indians for just one dollar. The land was originally eyed for a massive Amazon distribution center, but after years of pushback from residents and stalled development efforts, the Huntress family decided to return the land to its ancestral owners. Seneca Nation President J. Conrad Seneca called it an important step forward, noting the Nation will take a strategic look at how to put the site to its best long-term use. The move has historical weight — all of Grand Island was once sovereign Seneca territory.

The Tax Question Everyone's Watching

The land donation has sparked a real conversation about taxes. The Seneca Nation is pursuing restricted fee status with the Department of the Interior, which would take the property off the local tax rolls. Grand Island officials pushed back in late January, sending a letter to Interior Secretary Douglas Burgum asking the federal government to reject that request. The town argues it's essential to retain a say over what happens with the land and to keep it generating revenue for the community. It's a sensitive topic, and there are valid perspectives on both sides — but it's one that will shape Grand Island's budget and development picture for years to come.

What It All Means for the Community

Grand Island is at a crossroads, and these developments will define the island's character for the next generation. Rivertown Center could bring new small businesses, restaurants, and foot traffic to a community that's been craving a central gathering place. The Seneca Nation's plans for their 207 acres could open new economic opportunities for the entire region. Whatever happens, one thing is clear: Grand Island's story is far from finished, and the 716 will be watching closely. If you live on the island or have ties there, now's the time to get involved — attend town meetings, support local businesses in the corridor, and stay informed. This is your community being shaped in real time.

Learn More

WGRZ: Seneca Nation Takes Ownership of Grand Island Land Buffalo News: Grand Island Urges Feds to Keep Seneca Land on Tax Roll WGRZ: Developers Advance Plan for Town Center Project