Statler Owner Didn’t Have Permission To Display Josh Allen Banner

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Douglas Development, the owner of the Statler, did not have the necessary permit to hang the large Josh Allen banner that was unveiled in downtown Buffalo last week.

The city confirmed that the Allen banner can be displayed on the Statler Building because it is not considered a permanent fixture.

However, the city’s permit commissioner told WIVB News 4 that developer Douglas Jemal did not officially have permission to hang the large advertisement because the zoning commission is currently in recess and could not yet issue a permit.

Despite this, the temporary installation has been planned for over a month and will remain in place for the time being. Fans are impressed by the oversized display.

“You’re kind of looking into the soul of the city,” said one Bills Mafia member.

This past weekend, a black and white photo of Buffalo Bills quarterback Allen was hung and now hangs in the heart of the Queen City.

Throughout the day on Monday, Bills Mafia members paused during their walks to look up and take selfies with Allen’s Gatorade’s revived “Is It In You?” advertising campaign in the background.

“The city and the neighborhood and all the people here should be happy about it,” said Fredonia resident Nathan Teneyck. “Buffalo has always done a pretty good job of celebrating the Bills and supporting them, so this is just kind of the icing on the cake.”

The banner is a follow-up to the “Hello Coach” commercial, which showcased Allen’s resilience as he reached out to several college programs in hopes of joining their team.

Workers in the city centre say his story inspires them every day.

“I park right under that sign. I think it inspires me to come to work every day,” said Buffalo resident Dan Richer. “Yeah, he looks great and he’s a Bills.”

This isn’t the first time Allen has been in the spotlight in Buffalo.

A mural recently appeared on Niagara Street and his iconic Superman pose was transformed into a sign at the intersection of Clark and Kent Streets. Additionally, artist Eric Jones has produced numerous works in the region.

“We now have dozens of people coming to Niagara Square to take pictures and really immerse themselves in the downtown area,” Richer said. “So I’m all for it. I think it’s great for the community.”

Residents contacted News 4 to ask if the banner in Allen met city regulations.

Buffalo City Councilman Mitch Nowakowski said the property’s owner, Douglas Development, is working with the Department of Permits and Inspections to obtain the necessary permit.

Department Commissioner Cathy Amdur said the banner, which was discussed in late August, does not need Preservation Board approval because it is a temporary sign that will not detract from the exterior of the historic Statler.

An official permit is required for the banner. This will be discussed during the board meeting in October.

“We have a historic neighborhood here that’s full of memories and obviously a lot of history,” Richer said. “But I think it brings a new era and a new vibe to downtown.”