BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — A construction worker from the new Highmark Stadium site spoke anonymously to express displeasure over the vandalism that has stalled the project for much of this week.
“If morale is high on a job site, why would people want to disrupt it?” the contractor told WIVB News 4 on the condition that their identities be protected so they could speak freely.
Construction workers who spoke to News 4 claimed the vandalism was the result of a demoralizing culture at the site.
“When was the last time you went to someone’s house that you were happy with and messed up their stuff?” the worker asked. “You don’t do it to people who please you, you do it to people who don’t please you, for whatever reason.”
Contractors say they don’t believe construction should stop given the sheer size of the new stadium.
“It takes 20 minutes to go around and they can absolutely close the area and continue working.”
Gilbane Turner, the company responsible for construction of the new stadium, said work will resume on Friday, issuing a statement to News 4: “We are pausing work because people who come to this site deserve to work in an environment that reflects respect and professionalism. When that standard is violated, we address the issue and take the time to reset expectations. That’s who we are and how we operate.”
The company announced a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
“I just don’t think there’s a need for a reward. Just clean it up and move on,” one local resident said.
“I mean, it’s a lot, I do think it’s a lot of money. The vandalism … it’s terrible what they did, but $100,000 is a lot.”
“It seems a little excessive, but if someone puts it out there and they find someone, well, go to Bill! Go to them.”
The Erie County Sheriff’s Office is continuing to investigate. No arrests have been made yet.
This remains a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.
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Rob Petree is an anchor and reporter who joined the News 4 team in 2025. Click here to see more of his work.
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