Buckhorn State Park

In December 2001, the New York State Thruway Authority announced the completion of a $50,000 environmental enhancement project at Buckhorn State Park in Grand Island, New York. In conjunction with the New York State Office of Parks, Department of Environmental Conservation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Authority completed a newly paved public parking lot, an observation station (popular with bird watchers and local visitors), and constructed a canoe/kayak launch providing public access to the Niagara River. Numerous bird watchers use this site to observe and photograph migratory birds such as bald eagles and ospreys located on Navy Island, which traverses this important flyway between the United States and Canada.

Canal Revitalization Projects

For more than 175 years, New York’s Canal System has produced dramatic economic growth for the State and the nation, creating inland trade and propelling economic development. In an effort to continue this growth, the Canal Corporation is working to aid businesses and help them to flourish along the Canal and its surrounding communities. The New York State Canal Corporation offers potential businesses a wealth of investment opportunities. Centrally located, the Canal parallels the New York State Thruway, and the five major cities in upstate New York – Albany, Utica, Syracuse, Rochester and Buffalo. The New York State Canal System offers the ability to Work, Play and Live in a unique and dynamic environment. From rural landscapes to technologically advanced cities, the Canal System offers the best of the past and the promise of a bright future.

Port Byron Old Erie Canal Heritage Park

The Canal Society of New York State is sponsoring a project to construct the Port Byron Old Erie Canal Heritage Park at Erie Canal Lock 52. The abandoned Lock is located on the southside of the Thruway, just west of Interchange 40, and is readily visible to Thruway motorists. Adjacent to the Lock are several original structures including the Erie Lock house, blacksmith shop, mule barn and more. The Canal Society of New York State is coordinating with the NYS Thruway Authority, Federal Highway Administration, State Historic Preservation Office, NYS Department of Transportation and Cayuga County. The project will be developed in phases and will involve constructing a rest area that will allow eastbound Thruway motorists to park and visit the Port Byron Old Erie Canal Heritage Park as well as learn about the Erie Canal’s exciting history and influence on the economic development of New York State. Interstate access to a facility such as this is unprecedented in the nation.