A recent Niagara Falls Reporter article highlights the long-standing challenges surrounding the vacant Rainbow Mall and a redevelopment proposal led by the DiCienzo family of Canadian Niagara Hotels. Known for their extensive experience in hospitality and destination development, the DiCienzo family has played a major role in shaping Niagara Falls’ tourism landscape.
According to the article, the DiCienzo proposal offered a viable plan to revitalize the downtown site. When the city’s selected developer failed, the opportunity to revisit the DiCienzo plan was missed, leaving the property once again unused. The piece raises important questions about redevelopment decisions and the impact of overlooking proven local developers with deep community ties.