On June 8, 2024, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Park Shelter Building (along Fillmore Avenue) suffered an unexpected and damaging fire. Fortunately, no one was hurt, but the damage is significant.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Park is one of the most active parks in our system, welcoming upwards of 50 to 75 events a summer, such as the Juneteenth Festival, the Pine Grill Jazz Reunion, the Pappy Martin Legacy Masten Jazz Festival, and more.

This shelter is home to exhibition and interpretive materials supporting the Martin Luther King, Jr. Monument Plaza and serves as a seasonal restroom facility for all parkgoers.

Temporary solutions are in place in partnership with the City of Buffalo, like the renting of port-a-potties, to ensure minimal impact on upcoming events; however, this destruction will have long-term impact as we work towards the restoration of the building.

Any donation will make an impact in aiding this devastating loss. Thank you in advance for helping the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy bridge a gap in amenities that serve the East Side of Buffalo and beyond.