A New Indoor Water Park For Western New York?

It is way past the time to bring some sort of hockey/aquatic center to the Southtowns. Over the weekend, we took a trip to East Aurora and watched some hockey games and couldn't help but think that there is a need for more family friendly attractions in Western New York.

We have three sons and all of them are starting to get the itch to play. I couldn't help thinking that Hamburg needs to revisit the idea of putting something similar to the rink in East Aurora in either the Village or the Town. But not only would a rink be a bonus in the Hamburg area, a family aquatic center, perhaps in the location of the McKinley Mall, would also be an incredible addition.

Read More: New Traffic Pattern for Drivers in Orchard Park Begins

It was such a great experience seeing a hockey game in East Aurora. The vibe in the village is so welcoming and our kids loved it! I grew up in East Aurora and the Winter Classic Rink was a HUGE addition to a village already on the move. But as we watched family after family pile out of SUV's and minivans, I asked some of the other hockey parents "what would it take to get something like this in Hamburg"? While it takes a good deal of money and planning, it sounds like it would also need a strong backing from elected officials.

Hamburg is On The Move

Like so many other families in Western New York, my wife and I have been looking for a larger home to move to. The main issue we are finding is that we LOVE the school district we are in and we love the things that Hamburg has to offer but houses are selling so incredibly fast, for so much money that we will be staying in Hamburg for a few years more most likely.

Hamburg is constantly growing and is progressing in many ways just like it's Southtown neighbor in East Aurora. But a new rink, or indoor water park or family fun center, would be ideal! On a larger scale, a full aquatic center that would allow families like ours a place to learn to swim, or enjoy water slides and wave pool, with a hotel might be even better! The idea is to have a place for families to enjoy without having to leave WNY and keep the money here.

New Development Near Highmark Stadium

The new stadium has brought a new opportunity for growth  around Hamburg and Orchard Park. According to various reports,  Hamburg is eyeing the land near ECC for a multitude of new construction that could include a new arena!

Winters last a long time here in Buffalo and Western New York. With the amount of families that are moving to the Southtowns and the popularity of youth hockey in the area, perhaps a ice skating/swimming combination facility is exactly what we need?