“The father of the waterfront” is how Paul Marzello introduces Brian Higgins when the congressman drops by Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park.
In an exclusive interview, Higgins refused to confirm what other sources told The News and other media outlets last week: that he’s leaving to become president of Shea’s. But he said he plans to resign from Congress in early February – and sounded glad to be leaving.
“I’m a Buffalo boy, and I was here when there was absolutely nothing on the waterfront,” said Marzello, naval park president and CEO. “Brian Higgins found the funding that provided the financial stimulus for Canalside to be created. That was the turning point.
“We’re going to miss him,” he said.
Higgins, who announced Sunday he is leaving Congress after 19 years, will be remembered for many things.
His support for Flight 3407 families and their quest to strengthen pilot safety improvements. As a binational leader on U.S.-Canadian border issues. Helping veterans receive overdue medals and other recognition. Standing with retired Bethlehem steel workers for fair compensation, and boosting cancer research and championing historic tax credits critical to the city’s redevelopment.
His legacy will be remembered most for…
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