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About
Since its establishment under New York State Canal Law in 1992, the Canal Recreationway Commission (CRC) has been dedicated to developing the New York State Canal System into a vibrant recreationway that enriches communities and connects people to the cultural, historical and natural treasures of our waterways. Adopted by the Commission in 1995, the first Canal Recreationway Plan laid the foundation for a decades-long transition from a post-industrial waterway to a thriving collection of canals and recreational trails that has contributed immeasurably to the quality of life in Upstate New York and drawn thousands of visitors from around the world each year.
Empowered by its mandate and inspired by the upcoming bicentennial of the Erie Canal, the CRC felt there was no better time to revisit and reaffirm its vision for the Canal System. This Canal Recreationway Plan 2050 casts its gaze a quarter century into the future, contemplating how New York State might continue to build upon the success of the 1995 Plan to further the System’s impact on tourism, recreation and economic development while expanding its focus to include environmental stewardship, accessibility and strategic land use.
Vision Statement
Building on the strong foundation laid in the 1995 plan, the next 25 years and beyond will see the New York State Canal System evolve from a linear recreationway to a complete network of waterways, parks, and trails. This evolution will provide valuable ecological, economic, and cultural assets that complement the recreational amenities New Yorkers have come to love.
Around every bend, this well-maintained network of trails and waterways will connect New Yorkers to main streets and nature. The system’s iconic infrastructure will be preserved and renewed to highlight history and revitalize Canal communities. The Canals will continue to keep New Yorkers active outdoors while strengthening the landscapes, ecosystems, and habitats they run through.
