I was elected to represent District 4 in Erie County, including East Amherst, Clarence, Newstead and Akron. That includes working on behalf of the people who live there, the businesses that operate there and the attractions that bring people there.

RAYMOND WALT ER Erie County Legislator But there are times when elected leaders have to think beyond district lines, especially when it comes to tourism and revitalizing our region through new projects. To rebuild Erie County, all villages, towns and cities must work together on the common goal and make this an area where people want to live, work and visit.

That is why on Aug. 25, I gladly accepted an invitation to tour the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. I wanted to see how the $7 million renovation project was progressing. As an economic driver and host of major events, the Convention Center’s declining interior and exterior had to be addressed in order to attract visitors and vendors.

The Convention Center houses several attractions that are attended by thousands of people. This year, when people attend the World’s Largest Disco, Home and Garden Show or Car Show, they will notice several upgrades to the center. There are also several behind-the-scene upgrades, including an enhanced kitchen facility and freight elevator, both of which will make running an event easier and more efficient.

The County Legislature approved the funding for Convention Center renovations last year. It was our vision that these improvements would be an investment; renovating a facility that is extremely important to regional tourism. Thanks to the leadership of Erie County’s real estate team, I am happy to report that this project is coming in under budget, and completion will be earlier than expected.

It is projects such as this that must continue. Such improvements will help the regional blueprint come together. Critics will complain about the money being spent on minor changes, but when put

together, these investments will enhance the region.

Erie County is home to amazing sites, and the more people we can attract to the area, the better the results for everyone. Clarence Hollow or Antique World may not bring thousands of visitors from around the country, but the rapidly growing Wing Fest might, for example. The festival, which will be held Saturday and Sunday at Coca-Cola Field, was organized by Clarence resident “Wing King” Drew Cerza. It is efforts like his that highlight our region and attract tourists to our great city.

My hope is that visitors don’t come just for a day of eating chicken wings, but that they plan a weekend visit to see other attractions that interest them. Art enthusiasts, antique collectors, sports enthusiasts and history buffs can all find something entertaining to do in Erie County.

Built 30 years ago, the Convention Center was long overdue for a facelift, and now that the money has been spent to make improvements, focus turns to getting people here. If we want visitors to choose our region as a destination spot, we need to take pride in our attractions and maintain them. I believe making these necessary investments will help get Erie County on the right track for growth.

I am interested in hearing your thoughts about regional tourism and other county issues. Please call my office at 631-7650 or e-mail Raymond.walter@ erie. gov.