Project Work

Restores a landmark and park space of historic significance and emotional value to the community. The 18th-century manor house, damaged by flooding in 2011, will be reconstructed to protect it from future flooding events.

In partnership with NYSDEC, the Canal Corporation is enhancing waterflows and wildlife habitat in the Northern Montezuma Wildlife Management Area, an important migratory stopover. The project includes the purchase of a specially designed weed harvester boat that can remove invasive water chestnut in the shallow waterways of this region, reducing aquatic invasives and aiding access for recreation.

Iconic Lighting highlights and illuminates historic Canal infrastructure, creating unique attractions for Canal communities. The two lighthouses on Oneida Lake—in Brewerton and Verona Beach—have been lit, as were the Fairport Lift Bridge, the Little Falls Lock E-17 and the Tonawanda CSX bridge.

Several projects will take place along the Canal waterfront in the Village of Medina, a historic canal town located midway between Rochester and Buffalo. Projects include the rehabilitation of the Medina Highwall, an aqueduct that carries the Canal and the former Canal towpath—now the Empire State Trail—across Oak Orchard Creek. There will be development of waterfront park elements along a half-mile stretch of the Trail, from the Medina Lift Bridge to the Horan Road Bridge. Plans also include a Triennial Arts Festival expected in 2026 and 2029.

A new pedestrian bridge is being constructed across the Erie Canal in Brockport. The new bridge will connect the Empire State Trail—on the north side of the Canal—to the SUNY Brockport campus—on the south side of the Canal. The bridge is a key element in the creation of a continuous loop, totaling approximately 1.2 miles, connecting both sides of the Canal. In addition to a pedestrian crossing, the bridge will incorporate a viewing platform from which spectators can watch rowing competitions and other events and activities on the Canal.