Media Advisory: UB’s cleanup volunteers target University Heights Linear Park, celebration to follow

BUFFALO, N.Y. – University at Buffalo students will team with community members for the latest coordinated cleanup project involving UB students, this time working at Linear Park in University Heights from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, as a show of unity for a safer, cleaner neighborhood.

“Despite reports about students who negatively affect the quality of life in the Heights, many students are very helpful when it comes to events like cleanups at Linear Park,” says Cassandra Hayes, president of the Heath Street Block Club. “From the UB Women's Soccer Team to the physical therapy students, students have always worked at and attended our cleanups.”

What: Students from UB will work with community residents to restore Linear Park. Tools, gloves, water and garbage bags will be provided.

A block party with food and music will follow the cleanup. The party is being organized by the Merrimac Street Block Club.

When: Cleanup volunteers – both students and community members – will work from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The follow-up block party starts around 3 p.m.

Where: Volunteers will meet at 11 a.m. at the intersection of Tyler and Angle streets (Linear Park is at the end of Tyler Street). The block party will be held between 179 and 182 Merrimac St.

Why: To build and develop relationships between community residents and students that improve communication and living conditions for all groups in the University Heights. UB officials also hope the activity will encourage students to get involved in block clubs, neighborhood events and other community initiatives. The cleanup activity also is intended to demonstrate support for the city’s 2014 restoration of Linear Park.