Collapse at 102 Johnson Park Raises Urgent Accountability Concerns

A portion of the rear structure at 102 Johnson Park collapsed last week, marking a serious and preventable failure in the stewardship of a historic property.

Located within the West Village Historic District, this building is part of a neighborhood defined by its architectural significance and proximity to downtown Buffalo. The loss of any portion of a structure in this area is not just a property issue—it is a broader threat to the integrity of the district.

This property is owned by Chuck Dobucki, whose pattern of deferred maintenance continues to put historic buildings at risk. The collapse underscores the consequences of inaction and neglect. Chuck was arrested in 2025 for Housing Court violations and just had his property at 2 St. Louis taken by the City of Buffalo under the abandonment act.

Preservation Buffalo Niagara believes this situation warrants immediate intervention. The property owner should be held accountable through housing court, including appropriate fines, and the City should pursue receivership to ensure the building is stabilized and protected from further deterioration.

When properties are allowed to decline to the point of collapse, the outcome is often irreversible. This is exactly the type of situation where proactive enforcement and intervention can prevent further loss.

Photos of the damage illustrate the severity of the collapse and reinforce the urgency of action.

Preservation Buffalo Niagara will continue to advocate for stronger enforcement and tools that protect Buffalo’s historic fabric—especially in designated districts where these resources should be safeguarded.

*Photo: Taken by a neighbor of 102 Johnson Parkway.