Reimagine the Canals Initiative

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Reimagine the Canals

In May 2019, Governor Cuomo announced a sweeping initiative to examine how the Erie Canal system could be reimagined for the 21st century.

The initiative had five objectives:

  • Identify potential new uses for the Erie Canal aimed at improving the quality of life for New Yorkers;

  • Evaluate how the Erie Canal can support and enhance economic development along the canal corridor;

  • Find new opportunities to enhance recreation and tourism along the Erie Canal;

  • Assess how the Erie Canal can help mitigate impacts from flooding and ice jams to improve resiliency and restore ecosystems in canal communities; and

  • Identify opportunities for using Erie Canal infrastructure to expand irrigation for Western New York farms.

The Reimagine initiative builds on successful efforts by Governor Cuomo to invest in the Canal corridor, including the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and Taste NY , which have stoked the growth of new industries, businesses and housing in Canal communities.


Building on Success

Plan to Reimagine the Erie Canal System

To further the objectives set forth in Reimagine, Governor Cuomo appointed a blue-ribbon task force to build on the success of the Reimagine the Canals Competition, which sought out innovative ideas that capitalize on the Canal’s strengths. More information on the competition and the task force's findings can be found below.

Task Force Report
Press Release
Reimagine the Canals Competition

Erie Canal Map

An Essential Part of our Past, Present, and Future

About the Reimagine the Canals

A Catalyst for Economic Development and Environmental Resiliency

Public Meetings

Public meetings were held across the state to get community input. Learn more about these important discussions that will help shape the future of the Erie Canal.

News and Updates

Keep up on the latest news about the Governor's Reimagine the Canals Initiative.

“

When the Erie Canal was created in the 19th century it set the state and the nation on a path to prosperity, and this year we will repurpose the canal to fit our state's 21st century needs.

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo