The Erie Canal is undergoing a transformation to become more accessible for people with disabilities across New York State.
This effort is a collaboration between the New York Power Authority (NYPA), the New York State Canal Corporation, and a local nonprofit group, Rochester Accessible Adventures.
Anita O’Brien, the executive director of Rochester Accessible Adventures, explained that her organization will work with businesses and other entities along the canal.
The goal is to make these locations more accessible to individuals with disabilities, enhancing both local enjoyment and tourism.
“It’s important to appeal to local residents while also developing a tourism base. By being known as an accessible space, tourists with disabilities will be encouraged to visit your hometown,” O’Brien stated.
Susan Shepard, a disabled resident of Henrietta and board member of Rochester Accessible Adventures, is excited about the initiative.
She highlighted the freedom that comes with accessible spaces, saying, “Having open access means I can go out whenever I want and with whomever I want. It removes a significant barrier.”
The initiative aims to spread the accessibility improvements already seen in Fairport to other communities along the Erie Canal.
This expansion will involve developing facilities that cater to all New Yorkers, making the canal more inclusive.
At a recent news conference in Fairport, 13-year-old Lily Milliman expressed her enthusiasm for the new program.
She appreciates the opportunity for people with and without disabilities to participate in activities along the canal.
Milliman has already enjoyed using a specially designed bicycle on the canal path, which she described as a wonderful experience.
Brian Stratton, the Director of the State Canal Corporation, noted that various recreational activities have been added to the Erie Canal in recent years.
According to the source, he hopes this new educational program will further expand access.
Stratton emphasized that “canal waterways and trails offer incredible opportunities for recreational exploration.”
He added that the collaboration with Rochester Accessible Adventures would ensure everyone can enjoy this uniquely New York asset.
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Rochester Accessible Adventures will collaborate with canal excursion providers and offer recommendations to businesses on removing barriers that inhibit inclusive participation.
This effort is about creating a more welcoming and accessible environment for everyone along the Erie Canal.