Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor to use grant to support adaptive recreation

WATERFORD, N.Y. — The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor announced it will use grant funding of nearly $9,500 to support adaptive recreation along the Erie Canalway Trail and participation in the Canalway Challenge “by people of all abilities.”

The Small Grants and Initiatives Fund at the Central New York Community Foundation in Syracuse awarded the grant money, per the announcement.

The Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor is based in Waterford in Saratoga County, per its website.

The Canalway Challenge allows people to trace history while tracking miles walking, running, cycling, or paddling on the New York State Canal System and Canalway Trail. The free program includes a range of mileage options so that people at all fitness levels can participate.

People with mobility challenges are also welcome to participate using a series of Peloton-style adaptive cycling videos filmed on the Erie Canalway Trail and Onondaga Creekwalk in Onondaga County, developed in partnership with The Fitness Inclusion Network at SUNY Upstate’s Golisano Center for Special Needs.

The grant was provided through the Community Foundation’s community grant program, which funds projects in Onondaga and Madison counties that focus on the areas of arts and culture, civic affairs, education, health, human services, and the environment.

“Support from the Central New York Community Foundation will help to further our efforts to ensure that recreational experiences along the canal are welcoming, sought after, and accessible to people of all abilities,” Bob Radliff, executive director of the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, said.

Those interested can sign up for the Canalway Challenge at any time at www.canalwaychallenge.org. Participants set a personal mileage goal and receive recognition and rewards when they complete it.