WATERFORD – 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 by preserving 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 supports capital investment in historic properties 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.”
Congress appropriates funding for the program through the Historic Preservation Fund(https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1623/index.htm) (HPF). For more information about this year’s grant recipients and the Paul Bruhn Historic Revitalization Grants program, please visit nps.gov(https://www.nps.gov/subjects/historicpreservationfund/paul-bruhn-historic-revitalization-grants-program.htm).