Buffalo's Thruway Plaza

Western New York's first major post-war shopping complex opened for business in October 1952. The 8 million dollar facility originally spanned 300,000 leasable square feet and contained thirty-two stores and services. Free parking was provided for 3,000 autos.

Graphic from the Sommers Brothers Construction Company 

An early '50s view of THRUWAY PLAZA. Tenants in the open-air strip center included W.T. Grant, J.C. Penney, Woolworth's and Neisner's 5 & 10s and A & P and NuWay supermarkets.

Photo from http://wnyheritagepress.org / Buffalo Courier-Express

A THRUWAY PLAZA grand opening celebration was hosted by Duncan Renaldo, star of "The Cisco Kid" western TV series.

Photo from Wikipedia / B & I Circus Store

J.C. Penney's THRUWAY PLAZA location was comprised of 3 levels, although only one -the 25,000 square foot main sales floor- was used for retail. A basement and small third floor housed offices, storage and an employee break room. The store would be expanded in 1957.

Drawing from the J.C. Penney Company

Lerner Shops at THRUWAY PLAZA originally encompassed 10,800 square feet, all on one floor. This store would also be enlarged in 1957.

Drawing from the McCrory Company