Communities along New York’s canals continue to invest in the trails, public spaces, and experiences that make the canal corridor one of the state’s most vibrant recreation and tourism destinations.
This year, the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor and the New York State Canal Corporation announced 41 recipients of 2026 NYS Canal System Tourism Infrastructure and Event Grants, totaling $207,953 to support tourism amenities, trail improvements, and community events across the canal corridor.
The funding supports 11 infrastructure and amenity projects and 31 events, helping communities enhance the visitor experience, improve accessibility, and celebrate the history and culture of New York’s canal system.
We are especially excited to see several of our Empire State Trail Towns among this year’s awardees!
Trail Towns Leading the Way
Through our Trail Towns program, communities work to better welcome trail users with improved amenities, wayfinding signage, and connections between trails and local businesses. This year, several Trail Town partners received Canal System grants to support projects that will enhance trail experiences for visitors and residents alike.
Canajoharie
The Canajoharie Library and Art Gallery received funding for restroom upgrades and accessibility improvements. These updates will modernize public facilities at the library and the nearby Arkell Museum, making the space more welcoming and accessible for visitors exploring the Mohawk Valley and the canal corridor.
Lockport
The Lockport Locks Heritage District Corporation was awarded funding to create a tactile map and accessibility assessment for the historic locks district. The project will improve navigation and accessibility for visitors exploring the iconic canal locks and waterfront area.
Clyde
The Village of Clyde will add seating and signage improvements at the community’s Welcome Center, including Adirondack chairs and an accessible picnic table. These simple but meaningful upgrades will provide a comfortable place for visitors traveling the trail to rest and explore the village.
Montezuma
The Town of Montezuma received funding for the High Street Trailhead Enhancement Project, which will install a drinking fountain with a bottle-filling station, bike racks, seating, and accessible picnic facilities at the entrance to Montezuma Heritage Park. The project will strengthen access to the canal corridor and improve amenities for trail users.
Looking Ahead
As Trail Town communities continue investing in welcoming trail users and celebrating their canal heritage, projects like these ensure that the canal corridor remains a place where all can walk, bike, paddle, and explore.
Congratulations to all of the 2026 Canal System Tourism Infrastructure and Event Grant recipients, and a special shout-out to our Trail Town partners in Canajoharie, Lockport, Clyde, and Montezuma for their continued leadership in building vibrant trail-connected communities.