BUFFALO, N.Y. — It's been three years since the City of Buffalo announced the desire to bring a new grocery store downtown. Now, it appears to be another step closer to happening.

Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown says the city is "very close" to selling the parking lot at 201 Ellicott Street to Ciminelli Real Estate to develop the property.

The developer was chosen more than two years ago to build on the parcel between the Buffalo and Erie County Public Library and the bus terminal. 

The original plans included an Orchard Fresh grocery store run by Tops Friendly Markets. The plans also called for a high-rise apartment building, more retail space, a parking ramp and outdoor areas for the public.

While Brown would not comment on specifics of the project moving forward, he says negotiations are going well to sell the land to Ciminelli to get started.

"For the downtown residential community, a grocery store is very important," Brown said. "In fact, in the last 10 years, downtown has actually become the fastest-growing neighborhood in the City of Buffalo."

Since the original proposal for the property, Tops has filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy. A company spokesperson says Tops is still evaluating the opportunity at 201 Ellicott Street.  

A representative of Ciminelli Real Estate says the project is "definitely making progress" and more updates will come as the deal is finalized.