BUSINESS CORRIDORMix-Use
Renovation
LEROY LOVE - SERVING THE COMMUNITY FOR 40 YEARS & COUNTING
Leroy found his way to the Jefferson neighborhood after serving in the US Army and Navy. Coming from the south, Leroy’s family ties connected him to Buffalo. Leroy initially became a barber in the late 60’s and purchased his current property in the late 80’s. Leroy recalls the vibrancy of Jefferson Avenue. “Everyone – celebrities, pro-athletes, singers, movie stars, they all came to Jefferson.” Leroy reminisces.
In an effort to paint a picture of the past, Leroy shares there was not an empty building or vacant lot along Jefferson. Leroy has three sons, two of them are successful barbers on the eastside. The youngest son is currently training under his father instruction and stands to inherent the barbershop. Although that may be a far time off, as Leroy plans to work until he’s carried out of the shop “feet first.” Leroy’s love for the community and the time he shares with his clientele gives him the energy to continue day in and day out – making work feel more like spending time with loved ones.
PLANNING PROCESSProject Development
HOPE FOR TOMORROW
Changing Times
Show Our Youth Progress
Mr. Leroy Love looks forward to renovating his property, not for only himself, but for the community. He is hopeful for the youth of Buffalo. He is hopeful by what he has observed in the young people that frequent his shop, “They want to do better, they just need guidance, they need to see progress.” Over the years, Leroy has trained up 15 aspiring apprentices. He encourages youth to “find a need and fill it…but be sure to get your education.”
We Must Adapt
Making the Community Proud
Mr. Love’s Barbershop will receive a complete interior renovation. Leroy envisions the faces of his clients when they walk into the newly renovated shop. For Mr. Love, these renovations would represent the incoming upswing of the community. Updating his property is a sign of his business’ continued vitality. This grant opportunity is right on time and truly appreciated.
READY TO GET STARTED
Envision the Possibilities
Architects Produce Design Concepts
The ESCD program provided awarded participants with architects that worked to produce design renderings for each project. Business owners were able to choose from several inspiring design concepts. Seeing these images brings this effort closer to reality.
The End Result…
Will be Better for Us All
Leroy is hopeful that work will begin soon despite industry-wide challenges. When the renovations are completed, Mr. Love’s Barbershop will have a new commercial window system, signage, door, and accent lighting. The building will receive new paint and masonry repairs. Clients will walk into an overhauled interior with new flooring, ceiling, paint, and finishes. A new restroom and an upgraded HVAC system are also in the plans.
Project budget: $115,000 Grant amount: $100,000
CONTACTDo you have
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