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Amherst Approves Westwood Transfer to Erie County as Groundbreaking and Lawsuit Follow

County officials pledge to fund the project without new Amherst costs as a resident challenges the transfer in court.

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Overview

  • The Amherst Town Board voted to transfer the 171-acre former Westwood Country Club to Erie County, clearing the way for creation of Willowdale Park.
  • Erie County held a ceremonial groundbreaking and says it is ready to redevelop the site into a restored nine-hole golf course with trails and passive recreation; it would be the first county-owned park in Amherst.
  • County Executive Mark Poloncarz said Erie County will invest more than $9 million in the project, while town officials say the deal adds no cost to Amherst’s budget.
  • Amherst resident and Republican supervisor candidate Dan Gagliardo filed a lawsuit against the town and county over the handling of the transfer, alleging secrecy and seeking further review.
  • County leaders said they hope to open the golf course by the end of 2026, whereas earlier town estimates targeted overall construction completion by 2027.