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Riverlink Park, Amsterdam
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Canal Events and Tours Generate $1.5 Billion in
Annual Economic Impact
As the NYS Canal System gets set to open for the 194th consecutive season,
a new study of the economic impact of events and tours in the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor calls attention to the power of tourism along New York State's iconic canals. An estimated $1.5 billion annually is generated by events, boat tours, bicycle and paddle-sport rentals and historic site/museum tours along the Erie, Champlain, Owsego and Cayuga-Seneca Canals. Events and tours drew 3.3 million visitors in 2017.
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The economic analysis was conducted by
Level 7 Market Research
for the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor through its nonprofit affiliate, the Erie Canalway Heritage Fund, Inc., and supported by a grant from Market New York through I LOVE NEW YORK, the state's Division of Tourism, as a part of the Regional Economic Development Council awards.
"Not only are these events and recreational tours a fun way to experience what the canal system has to offer,
they provide a significant return on investment
for host communities," said
Bob Radliff, Executive Director
of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor. "In partnership with the National Park Service and the NYS Canal Corporation, we are proud to consistently support and promote many of these endeavors and are now pleased to see the impressive economic impact revealed in this report."
Over the last 10 years, the number of events in the Canalway Corridor has increased dramatically to include concerts, arts festivals, cycling and paddling events, celebrations of local foods and beverages, and events that focus on history and heritage. According to the
NYS Canal Corporation website
, the 2017 calendar held more than 470 events.
New York State Executive Director of Tourism Ross D. Levi said, "The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is one of New York State's tourism treasures. With countless opportunities to experience the Canal's rich history and the attractions in surrounding communities, there's no time like the present to include the Canal in your next New York State vacation."
"Two centuries ago, a narrow ribbon of water just 4 feet deep and 40 feet wide fueled the economic ascendancy of the Empire State. Today's Canal System builds on the legacy of the original Erie Canal, continuing to serve as the economic lifeblood of the cities, towns, and villages that line this iconic waterway's banks," said Brian U. Stratton, Director of the New York State Canal Corporation. "As we prepare for our 194th consecutive season of operation, we look forward to yet another year of great events and canal attractions generating revenue for small businesses and economic benefits for canal communities."
The eastern Erie Canal from Waterford to Brewerton is scheduled to open May 15, weather permitting, with an opening ceremony to take place at Lock 2 in Waterford at 10am. The entire canal system is set to open on May 18.
This year's event highlights include: the 20th Anniversary of
Cycle the Erie Canal
bike tour, organized by Parks & Trails New York, and the cross canal journey of the Corning Museum of Glass
GlassBarge
,
traveling with Lake Champlain Maritime Museum's canal schooner
Lois McClure
.
Questions or inquiries about the tourism research may be directed to Jean Mackay at (518) 237-7000 ext. 222 or
[email protected].
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Featured May Events
May 9 >> SCHENECTADY COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE, SCHENECTADY
Join this timely discussion about how connecting arts and culture along the Erie Canal can become an essential driver of sustainable communities. A SUNY/Erie Canal Bicentennial Forum, 1-3:30PM with reception to follow at Mohawk Harbor from 4-5:30pm.
Centennial Celebration: First Filling of The Erie Barge Canal
MAY 10 >> GENESEE VALLEY SPORTS COMPLEX AT GENESEE VALLEY PARK
Witness the re-creation of the "first filling" of the 20th century Erie Canal. "Teddy Roosevelt," sponsors, and other dignitaries will greet the public and commemorate the event with the authentic shovel used 100 years ago on May 10, 1918. Dignitaries will also unveil a bronze plaque that designates the NYS Canal System a National Historic Landmark. Optional bus tour to follow.
Celebrate the annual opening of the canal, the Erie Canal bicentennial, and the centennial of the Barge Canal through heritage, educational, and recreational events in and on the canal.
MAY 12 >> AQUEDUCT ROAD BOATHOUSE & PARK, NISKAYUNA
Experience a "Not Your Typical" triathlon: 7-mile bike, 2-mile kayak or canoe, and a 5K run along the Mohawk River.
Key to the Locks Award and Lock Tenders Tribute
MAY 12 >> ERIE CANAL DISCOVERY CENTER, LOCKPORT
Volunteer recognition and celebration of the newly renovated Erie Barge Canal Powerhouse into the Locks District Museum. Contact Dave Kinyon for more information: 716-638-1110
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MAY 25-30 >> LOCK 4, VILLAGE OF WATERLOO
Visit historic Waterloo, the official birthplace of Memorial Day, and experience Civil War living history along the banks of the Cayuga-Seneca Canal. Partake in family friendly activities, including concerts, arts & crafts, and plein air art demonstrations.
MAY 26 >> MACEDON CANAL PARK AT LOCK 30
Celebrate and tour the history and heritage of Lock 30 on the Erie Canal with hands-on activities, family games, historic displays, simulations, canal trail tours, canal boat tours, face painting, live music, food and refreshments, a bounce house, and displays.
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