River Rock Connector Trail

In a city shaped by railroads and industry, a new kind of path is taking root—one built for people, not freight. At Trust for Public Land, we believe trails are connectors of people, places, and purpose, which is why we’re teaming up with the Black Rock Riverside Alliance and the Buffalo Niagara River Land Trust to bring the River Rock Connector Trail to life in Northwest Buffalo.

This 5.12-mile trail includes turning a 1.5 mile, out-of-use rail corridor into a vibrant, green pathway, as well as utilizing off and on-road segments to link four historically underserved neighborhoods to the benefits of nature. Once complete, the River Rock Connector Trail will offer safe, accessible routes for walking and biking, improved access to the waterfront and the Empire State Trail, and much-needed green space in a part of the city long burdened by industrial disinvestment and a lack of infrastructure investment.

With green infrastructure, stormwater improvements, and tree planting, the project also tackles flooding and air pollution, while supporting local wildlife. Buffalo’s Northwest neighborhoods have faced decades of disinvestment, but the River Rock Connector is a powerful step forward to connect more people to the outdoors.

Thank you to the community of Black Rock and Riverside, Black Rock Riverside Alliance (BRRA), and Buffalo Niagara River Land Trust (BNRLT) for their continued support and contribution to this effort.