I know firsthand what it means to grow up in low-income housing. For much of my childhood, that was my reality. But I was also fortunate to live in a city that was investing in jobs, industries, and opportunities. Because of that, I was able to work in new fields, step into growing industries, travel, and even live in different states. Those experiences showed me how a city with a thriving economy can support low-income families by giving them the chance to rise up — not stay stuck.

That’s why I am deeply concerned about the proposal to convert the historic Bewley Building in Lockport, NY into low-income, subsidized housing. Our downtown area is currently on the rise, brimming with new small businesses, shops, restaurants, and community spaces that bring jobs, opportunities, and pride back to our city. Transforming this iconic building into subsidized housing would bring this positive momentum to a standstill, limiting the future potential of downtown Lockport for generations to come.

While we believe that housing is critical, the location of such housing is equally important. The Bewley Building stands as a testament to our city’s history and its spirit of rejuvenation. Its adaptation into subsidized housing could unwittingly stifle the burgeoning business environment, reducing the chances for growth which is imperative in supporting all residents, including those in low-income brackets.

Revitalization efforts have shown promise in making Lockport a thriving economic hub once again. Preserving the Bewley Building's potential as a commercial and cultural epicenter is essential to further this progress. We can support low-income families by fostering a thriving downtown economy that creates diverse opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship.

Join us in urging the city planners of Lockport not to proceed with the conversion of the historic Bewley Building into subsidized housing. Let us work together to find a more suitable location that balances housing needs with continued economic development.

Please sign this petition to ensure the future prosperity of Lockport, NY, lies in preserving its heritage and fostering an economy that offers every citizen a chance to succeed.