Construction activities have started on the restoration of the Erie Canal Towpath Community Connector project that will re-connect the towns of Clifton Park and Halfmoon along the Mohawk River. Visitors should anticipate that trail segments may be temporarily closed during construction activities. Trails may also be closed overnight as the work may commence early in the morning. Plans call for the work to be complete by the end of 2016.
Please do not attempt to walk or run through trails with active construction underway, or with indication of construction, for your safety and the safety of the construction crews.
The project consists of re-building a trail approximately 4.4 miles in length, primarily the “enlarged Erie Canal Towpath” from the 1840s, and also includes a pre-cast concrete pedestrian/bike bridge over Wager’s Pond. The project begins at the existing Erie Canal Towpath Trail on the east side of Ferry Drive (in Clifton Park) and extends past the Historic Double Lock 19 towards the Historic Whipple Bridge. The route follows the existing pathway that bears towards the river and then returns back to the “enlarged towpath trail” route along the south side of the canal all the way easterly from Clifton Park into Halfmoon. A new section of trail will be constructed to create a route around the Adirondack Northway and enable trail users to continue into Halfmoon to the intersection of the trail with the end of Clamsteam Road.
The Towns of Clifton Park and Halfmoon are undertaking this project, with approvals from the NYS Canal Corporation for work within the Vischer Ferry Nature & Historic Preserve. This project utilizes 80% funding support from federal transportation funds, through the Transportation Enhancements Program.
The towns conducted a public bidding process, and are utilizing Gallo Construction for the construction work, and Greenman-Pederson, Inc. for construction inspection.
Any questions concerning the project may be directed to the Town of Clifton Park – Planning Department at (518) 371-6054.