Ortt Announces $750,000 for Former Summit Park Mall

TOWN OF WHEATFIELD – Senator Rob Ortt (R,C,I – North Tonawanda) today announced the approval of a $750,000 state grant for Big Thunder Brewing Company that will be located in The Summit in Wheatfield. Senator Ortt worked with the Wheatfield Local Development Corporation (WLDC) to help secure the funding. The WLDC will administer the $750,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to the brewing company.      

Senator Ortt said, “This project will go a long way in revitalizing the largely vacant shopping mall, and builds upon the continued effort to enhance the region’s economic development. I’m pleased to see plans move forward that’ll help breathe new life into The Summit, create new jobs, and bring private investment and economic opportunity to the area. I commend The Summit’s owner and his business partner for their commitment to grow our economy and draw more visitors to Wheatfield.”

General Manager and Partner of Big Thunder Brewing Co. John Robinson said, “We’re thrilled to be working in Western New York. We appreciate the help and hard work from state and local officials to make this project possible, and look forward to continue working with them. This project is just the beginning of our vision to become a sports and entertainment destination that will include two sports domes, retail, a daycare, baseball fields across from the mall and more. We want to attract people and jobs to the area and continue to create opportunities for future growth.”

The funding will go toward brewing equipment for Big Thunder Brewing Co., which will be located in the former Save-A-Lot. The total cost of the project is estimated at $3.1 million, and will include a small distillery, sports bar and restaurant. The project is expected to create more than 50 new jobs and will be completed in early 2018.