"West Seneca Developmental Center opened in October 1962 for the stated purposes of relieving overcrowded conditions in other state facilities and for serving Western New York State. In 1974, the name was changed from West Seneca State School to West Seneca Developmental Center to reflect a change in philosophy and mission. West Seneca Developmental Center occupied 19 residential buildings, 2 program buildings, and 13 support buildings spread over 439 acres. When it opened, parents in Western New York whose children were in institutions far from home welcomed the new center. West Seneca Developmental Center started with 30 residents, and reached its largest population in 1971 with 1,710 individuals. After this point, the population slowly declined as residents moved into the community." -Kathryn Lawton, Ph.D.