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A Competition to Reimagine the
New York State Canal System

Two Winners Emerge!

October 3, 2018 marked a historic day for the New York State Canal System. After months of careful consideration of seven project proposals through public comments and expert feedback, Erie Armada and Canalside Pocket Neighborhoods have emerged as the winners of the Reimagine the Canals Competition. Meet the Winners here!

Thank you to all that submitted ideas, provided feedback, and helped make this a dynamic competition, refueling the spirit of innovation that drove the Erie Canal’s original construction.

About the Competition

The New York State Canal System is an engineering marvel that transformed New York State. From its inception in 1825, the canals have created new opportunities for New Yorkers in how they live, work, and play.

As the Canal System enters its third century of operation, the New York Power Authority and the New York State Canal Corporation, under Governor Andrew M. Cuomo's leadership, launched Reimagine the Canals, a $2.5 million global competition that sought the best ideas to enable the Canal System to become an engine for economic growth and world-class tourism. The response was overwhelming. 145 entries were submitted, representing nine states and seven countries.

An expert panel of jurors, NYPA, and the Canal Corporation have selected seven project submissions that stood out above the rest. These seven finalist teams were awarded up to $50,000 each to take their ideas to the next level.

On October 3, the winners of this competition were revealed— $2.5 million was awarded to the Erie Armada and Canalside Pocket Neighborhoods teams for their imaginative and innovative ideas that will transform the future of the New York State Canal System!

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