Willowdale Park

Erie County is seeking to join with the Town of Amherst in the renovation and redevelopment of the former Westwood Country Club into a public park. Work is anticipated to initially proceed through an amendment to the existing Intermunicipal Agreement between the Town and County and an Agreement with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). The land is anticipated to ultimately be transferred to the County in two phases. 

The first phase will be the transfer of approximately 162.38 acres of the land, where 9 of the 18 holes of the former golf course will be re-established, and the passive park will be sited. The Town will next transfer the southern 8.12 acres after the Town completes construction of an inclusive playground, public space, and restrooms. 

The re-establishment of the golf course by the County will alter about 4.5 acres where tees and greens will be restored and environmental conditions associated with historic golf course activities will be addressed under NYSDEC oversight. The remainder of the northern 162.38 acres, excluding the former clubhouse area, will become passive recreational land for walking, jogging, and the enjoyment of nature.

The SEQR process examines potential environmental impacts and social and economic considerations related to a proposed action and encourages communication among government agencies, project sponsors and the general public.