Funding

After years of pressure from preservationists, prominent Buffalonians, and elected officials, $100 million in funds was dedicated by then NYS Governor George Pataki to rehabilitate the Richardson Olmsted Complex. Of the $100 million, some of the funding was used to complete two other institutions; $16.5 million was used to build the new Burchfield Penney Art Center and $7 million was allocated to the Frank Lloyd Wright Darwin Martin House Visitor Center. Of the remaining $76.5 million, $20 million will go towards the Architecture and Visitor Center which will be located in the Richardson Olmsted Complex.

The John R. Oishei Foundation, the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo and the Margaret L. Wendt Foundation have provided generous support for the Richardson Olmsted Complex operations. 

The John R. Oishei Foundation strives to be a catalyst for change to enhance economic vitality and the quality of life for the Buffalo Niagara region.  The Foundation was established in 1940 by John R. Oishei, founder of Trico Product Corporation. 

The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo (CFGB) is a public charity holding more than 800 different charitable funds, large and small, established by individuals, families, nonprofit agencies and businesses to benefit Western New York.  Since 1919, the CFGB has served the needs of this community and the wishes of our donors through personalized service, financial stewardship, local expertise, and community leadership.