The Valley History
The Valley is located in the southeastern portion of the City of Buffalo. Its name is derived from the infrastructure that surrounded it until 1992. Prior to that time, five bridges offered the only vehicular and pedestrian access to the neighborhood. During 1990 and 1991 the bridge entering the Valley on Smith Street was razed and access was restored at grade level. A new large manufacturing plant of solar panels is now on the site of what was once Republic Steel Plant to the south with an expectation of 2000 new jobs. The Valley is bounded by the Buffalo River to the west and rail lines to the south, west and northwest which provided transportation for the heavy industry that once dominated the area.
Internally, the Valley is mostly residential with a few small businesses and industrial plants. It measures approximately one square mile. The smallness of the area creates a cohesive mix of residents who are proud of their property and neighborhood. There is also a four-block sub-neighborhood of the Valley on the northern border known as “Little Hollywood”.
Continuing the Mission
Today, the mission of the VCA remains the betterment of the neighborhood. The VCA is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of the residents of the Buffalo River Community by meeting individual and family needs and promoting environmental beautification and stewardship. Advocating a strong sense of empowerment and ownership the Valley Community Association’s committed staff and volunteers serve infants through older individuals with health related, educational, economic, social, and recreational assistance and opportunities.