Schenectady County, town of Saratoga get funding for Mohawk-Hudson Bike Trail, canal updates

638C90CF-3094-423C-9B7F-A46026E8B1BD — PHOTOGRAPHER: File Photo

ROTTERDAM – Schenectady County will get two rest stops in Rotterdam along the Mohawk-Hudson Bike Trail and the town of Saratoga will make Hudson River Boat Launch updates after receiving funding from the Canal Corporation and Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.

Schenectady County was awarded $22,175, according to a press release from the Canal Corp Wednesday.

“Schenectady County is proud to host 21 miles of the newly completed Empire State Trail within our borders,” said Schenectady County Legislator Gary Hughes, chairperson of the Economic Development & Planning Committee.

He said the funding will allow the county to construct two rest stops along the trail, that include water stations, seating, directional signage and a “mapping feature that will highlight local attractions and businesses.”

The rest stops will be located at Kiwanis Park and at the new trailhead parking lot in Pattersonville, said Erin Roberts, the county’s director of communications.

The grant is a 50/50 match, with the county’s economic development team providing the additional funding, Roberts said. She said the project has to go out to bid, but that the county hopes to have it completed this biking season.

“We’d like to thank the Canal Corporation for their support of these projects that will enhance the user experience for both locals and visitors,” Hughes said.

The town of Saratoga received $8,000 in funding to upgrade its Hudson River Boat Launch, including adding a kayak launch, picnic tables, bike rack and signage, according to the press release.

Saratoga Town Supervisor Thomas Woods could not be reached for comment.

The grant funding is part of the Reimagine the Canals initiative, which aims to identify new uses for the canal, including recreationally and for tourists as well as help the canal corridors economically.

“Reimagine the Canals is an initiative built on showcasing the New York State Canal System’s grandeur through a 21st Century lens,” said Brian Stratton, the Canal Corp. director. in the release “With these grants, community organizations and local municipalities will be afforded the opportunity to contribute to the revitalization of the canalway, enhancing the programs and infrastructure that attract guests to this landmark each year. We look forward to supporting the awardees of these grants and the continuous improvement of this historic piece of New York State’s legacy.”

In total 38 non-profit organizations and municipalities received grants in 2022 totaling $259,300. The grants ranged between $500 and $24,000.

“Combining federal, state, and local resources in support of community-based projects and events will benefit residents and visitors to New York’s iconic canals,” said Bob Radliff, executive director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor in the release. “We look forward to working with grantees to bring these innovative projects and exciting events to fruition.”

Reporter Shenandoah Briere can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter at SB_DailyGazette.