The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor has received a $750,000 Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grant from the National Park Service to support economic development through the preservation of historic buildings in rural communities in the Mohawk Valley.
“I am so proud to deliver funding to the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor after my advocacy and support for the project that will preserve these nationally significant historical, cultural, educational, scenic, and natural resources along the New York State Canal System,” stated Congresswoman Elise Stefanik (NY-21). “This $750,000 grant will help promote economic development, preserve historic properties along the Canalway including counties impacted in my district like Montgomery and Herkimer counties, and strengthen our rural communities in the Mohawk Valley.”
The National Heritage Corridor will develop a subgrant program that offers support for capital investment in historic properties located in small rural communities adjacent to the New York State Canal System.
“We are thrilled to be among 13 recipients nationwide to receive this significant funding. These resources will enable us to jump start projects that strengthen local economies and contribute to the greater Mohawk Valley region,” said Bob Radliff, Executive Director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said: “Historic preservation is a key component of the Department of State’s many efforts to revitalize communities along the Erie Canal. This grant will go a long way toward elevating and enhancing the rich historical and cultural heritage that our canal communities possess, along with a myriad of economic, social and cultural benefits to follow. The emphasis on rural canal communities in this grant complements our focus on community revitalization through our NY Forward program, Downtown Revitalization initiative and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, among others. We congratulate the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor for securing this grant and look forward to continuing and expanding our productive partnership with canal communities and the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor Commission.”
New York State Canal Corporation Director Brian U. Stratton said: “Since its completion in 1825, the Erie Canal has served a central role in driving business and commerce throughout the Empire State. This Historic Revitalization Grant will support efforts to ensure the Canal, a marvel of engineering ingenuity, continues to do just that. By strengthening economic activity throughout the Mohawk Valley and preserving the area’s rich history, this important federal funding is helping to commit the Erie Canal to another 200 years of serving New Yorkers and tourists alike.”
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said: “This infusion of support for preservation projects in this portion of this historic canal corridor is an incredible opportunity for the Mohawk Valley. There are so many rural communities with remarkable historic fabric looking for economic development opportunities and this grant will help bring plans to life. We congratulate our partners at the Canalway for securing this grant and applaud their continued investment in collaborating with local communities.”
Montgomery County Executive Matthew L. Ossenfort said: “We are pleased the Mohawk Valley is one of the recipients of this grant funding. It will not only bolster the County’s commitment towards the preservation of historic buildings in our canal communities, but also foster economic development and growth towards a stronger future for our region.”
Preservation League of New York State President Jay DiLorenzo said: “The Mohawk Valley is filled with historic buildings that have the potential for rehabilitation and reuse. This grant program will help them to once again play an important role in the regional economy.”
Congress appropriates funding for the program through the Historic Preservation Fund (https://www.nps.gov/orgs/
