Canalway Grants Support Capital Projects to Revitalize the New York State Canal System’s Waterways and Trails

Grants awarded to three Mohawk Valley Communities

ALBANY, N.Y.—The New York Power Authority and New York State Canal Corporation today announced that nine upstate municipalities and nonprofits have been awarded approximately $1 million combined in grants from the Canal Corporation through the 2025 Regional Economic Development Council (REDC) initiative. Funding will support the implementation of capital projects that aim to revitalize the New York State Canal system’s waterways and trails by enhancing recreational accessibility, strengthening communities and local economies, preserving and showcasing Canal history, improving safety, and promoting environmental stewardship and resilience.

 “I am thrilled to see the New York Power Authority and New York State Canal Corporation investing in the revitalization of our historic Canal communities through these significant regional grants,” said New York Power Authority and Canal Corporation Trustee and Syracuse Area Canal Recreationist Bea Gonzalez. “By enhancing our waterways, trails, and local infrastructure, we are preserving our rich heritage, fostering economic growth, creating new recreational opportunities, and supporting environmental stewardship. These projects will improve quality of life for residents and attract visitors, which ensures the Canalway remains a vibrant corridor where people live, work and play.”

$150,000 Awarded to the Village of Frankfort for the Frankfort Harbor Marina Improvement Project

The Village of Frankfort will replace aging wooden dock infrastructure at the Frankfort Harbor Marina, in addition to performing necessary shoreline stabilization to ensure the integrity of the marina and docks. This project will enhance recreational opportunities, the Village’s connection to the waterfront, and to other destinations across the New York State Canal system.

$110,000 Awarded to the Trenton Joint Fire District for the Barneveld Fire Station Rehabilitation Project

The Trenton Joint Fire District will rebuild a firehouse in the hamlet of Barneveld that collapsed in February 2025. Funding provided for the fire station will go towards a community room to operate as a warming/cooling station when the region is impacted by large scale power outages. It will also act as an emergency operations center during severe weather events. The Barneveld fire station provides emergency response services to Hinckley Reservoir, West Canada Creek, the Jarvis Power Facility, and many other local and regional communities and waterways.

$100,000 Awarded to the Village of Canajoharie for the Riverfront Park Dock Improvement Project

The Village of Canajoharie will install a new docking system at Riverfront Park which is located adjacent to the Erie Canal. The site currently has a basic boat launch but lacks docking for transient boaters. These improvements will enhance visitor access to the Erie Canal, support tourism, and encourage recreational use of the waterfront. 

Funding for this program was included in the 2025 Regional Economic Development Council Initiative. The REDC process continues to support and empower regional stakeholders in developing strategic plans and funding priorities that meet local economic needs. Regional Councils reviewed projects from this program and provided scores that reflect how well a project aligns with a region’s goals and strategies. Applicants utilized New York’s Consolidated Funding Application, the state’s single application for state resources, which includes programs for numerous agencies. It is designed to provide expedited and streamlined access to a combined pool of grant funds and tax credits from dozens of existing programs.