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Buffalo Builds Three New Sports Complexes, Plans Stadium Transition

Developments at multiple venues are shaping local sports facilities in North Buffalo, Orchard Park and Amherst.

By Buffalo Sport Desk · Published July 19, 2026

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The Thomas Smith Indoor Athletic Facility broke ground in North Buffalo at Shoshone Park as an $11.5 million public indoor sports complex slated to open at the end of 2027.

Thomas Smith Indoor Athletic Facility at Shoshone Park

This project stands as the city's only indoor public sports facility once completed. Construction progress at the North Buffalo site will provide dedicated space for local athletic programs that previously lacked year-round indoor options. The facility's timeline aligns with other regional developments expected in 2027.

Highmark Stadium Transition in Orchard Park

The Buffalo Bills' new $2.1 billion Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park topped out in mid-2026 and reached approximately 93 percent completion before opening on June 23, 2026, for the 2026 NFL season. Demolition of the former 53-year-old stadium, formerly known as Rich Stadium and New Era Field, began in May 2026 after electricity was terminated, with work slated for completion by 2027. These steps mark a full shift from the old venue to the new one in Orchard Park.

716 Sports Complex Planned for Amherst

Developers are planning the 716 Sports Complex in Amherst as a $50 million indoor facility of 331,000 square feet, reduced from an initial $80 million concept that included a hotel. The complex is expected to open in 2027 and will add substantial indoor capacity in the Amherst area.

Buffalo Pro Soccer Site Evaluation

Buffalo Pro Soccer scrapped its plan to build a 7,600-seat stadium at Elk and Lee Streets. The former HSBC Atrium parking lot remains the only potential site identified by the group for any future stadium project.

These facility updates reflect ongoing investment in venues across Buffalo's neighborhoods and suburbs. Local organizations and programs can monitor opening timelines and site decisions through official project channels as construction continues into 2027.