Picture the difference in population density

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News and analysis by Dan Telvock, Investigative Post's environmental reporter

Census statistics provide hard numbers for how densely populated Buffalo’s West Side is near the Peace Bridge compared to the Lewiston Queenston Bridge north of Niagara Falls.

But numbers alone don’t provide a clear view of just how striking the differences are between the neighborhoods near the two bridges.

Aerial photographs below taken by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers provide some context to why many West Side residents want truck traffic moved to the Queenston Lewiston Bridge and a small group of federal employees embarked on a short-lived study to consider such a move.

Roughly 15,000 people live in the four census tracts closest to the Peace Bridge.

What does that look like from above? See below.

An aerial shot of the Peace Bridge and adjacent neighborhood. Credit: Army Corps of Engineers

Now, compare the above photograph with the aerial taking at the Lewiston Queenston Bridge.

You’ll notice a lot less homes, larger lots and more trees compared with the photograph of Buffalo’s West Side.

Aerial view of the Lewiston Queenston bridge. Credit: Army Corps of Engineers

Dan Telvock