Empire State Development and Rochester Mayor Malik Evans announce updated design for Aqueduct Reimagined
Empire State Development (ESD) press release
Empire State Development (ESD) and Rochester Mayor Malik Evans today unveiled an updated design concept and next steps to complete the design of the transformational Aqueduct Reimagined project in the city center. As the centerpiece of the “ROC the Riverway” initiative, the Aqueduct Reimagined and Riverfront Promenades project will establish pedestrian and bicycle waterfront connections along both sides of the Genesee River and transform the historic Erie Canal Aqueduct and Broad Street Bridge into a vibrant and active destination that uniquely celebrates the rich history and culture of Rochester, New York.
The project will remove vehicular traffic from the Broad Street Bridge and create an iconic location that is inviting to individuals of all socioeconomic statuses and physical abilities. In addition, the project will construct new adjoining riverfront promenades that will bridge critical gaps in the existing Genesee Riverway Trail transportation network.
Empire State Development President and CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Aqueduct Reimagined is the latest and greatest example of ESD’s successful efforts to spur development and provide recreational opportunities along the banks of the Genesee River. Thanks to the vision and leadership of Governor Kathy Hochul, our strategic investments and positive partnerships with local stakeholders continue to advance the transformative “ROC The Riverway” initiative, which is fueling economic momentum and opportunity for the entire Finger Lakes region.”
State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “The City of Rochester is being transformed by sensible infrastructure projects such as Aqueduct Reimagined – a key element of ‘Roc the Riverway’ - making the city more accommodating for all forms of transportation and more inviting, livable and walkable to Flower City residents and visitors. I commend Governor Hochul and Mayor Evans on their persistent push to reimagine the City of Rochester, while continuing to honor the rich canal history that helped shape the nation’s transportation networks.”
Rochester Mayor Malik. D. Evans said, “We are celebrating our history by letting it serve as our inspiration as we build for the future. As the centerpiece of our ROC the Riverway initiative, Aqueduct Reimagined will be a dramatic force for much-needed, positive change Downtown. I am grateful to have Governor Hochul in our corner, helping us drive Rochester’s transformation into a safer, equitable and prosperous city that provides hope and opportunity for everyone.”
To continue this multi-year project, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced an additional $4 million state investment from the Regional Revitalization Partnership (RRP) to complete the project design, which is anticipated in 2027. The total project cost is estimated at $175 million. To date, New York state had previously committed $9.5 million for design of the Aqueduct Reimagined project as part of ROC The Riverway, an initiative to revitalize the Genesee River corridor and fuel the local economy. The City of Rochester, Monroe County, and Rochester Gas & Electric, are also assisting with crucial infrastructure upgrades required throughout the Aqueduct campus. Earlier this year the Governor also outlined a $2 million investment, through the collaborative RRP initiative, that will assist with public facing upgrades at nearby Aqueduct Park. While it is privately owned, an agreement between the property owner and City of Rochester will allow public access at the site and a future promenade connection to be made by the Aqueduct Reimagined project.
The City of Rochester has implemented a robust community engagement process for the Aqueduct Reimagined and Riverfront Promenades project and developed an updated design concept and vision that reflects the significant public and stakeholder input received to date and celebrates the history of the site. The public is invited to an Open House & Tour at the site during ROC The Riverway Weekend, this weekend October 4th and 5th. The event kicks off at the atrium of the Blue Cross Arena where the public can learn about project updates, and sign-up for a self-guided tour of the historic aqueduct and subway system. The public can also offer comment anytime, here.
The Aqueduct Reimagined project further supports the focused, collaborative efforts of the state, city and regional economic development partners to revitalize the area along the beautiful Genesee River waterfront through the “ROC the Riverway” Initiative. Phase one included investments in 13 targeted projects, all of which have been completed or are currently under construction. Phase two of the initiative, launched by the Governor in 2023, is highlighted by the establishment of High Falls State Park within the historic Genesee River gorge in downtown Rochester.
State Senator Samra Brouk said, "Projects like ROC the Riverway and The Aqueduct Reimagined are at the forefront of revitalizing Rochester. We know such initiatives will enhance the beauty of our city while also bolstering local businesses and residential development. I thank Governor Hochul for her continued investments in Rochester— together, we can create opportunities and uplift our city"
State Assemblymember Harry Bronson said, “ROC the Riverway, Aqueduct Reimagined and the reinvigoration of Downtown are transforming the City of Rochester. Downtown is the anchor of our community, and these innovative projects honor our past while preparing us for the future by adding vitality, jobs, housing, culture and art. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for your continued partnership in making Rochester a place of opportunity and prosperity for all.”
State Assemblymember Demond Meeks said, “Rochester is making significant strides towards implementing exciting and innovative transportation models across our community. It is important that we continue to support major initiatives such as Aqueduct Reimagined and ROC the Riverway that will deliver new connections for residents throughout our city. In addition to providing safety improvements and renovations to our infrastructure, this project will be a unique addition to the region with the ability to attract tourists from around the world. Thank you, Governor Hochul for your continued investment in the city of Rochester.”
State Assemblymember Sarah Clark said, “Today is an exciting announcement, celebrating additional funding for the Aqueduct Reimagined project for downtown Rochester. This transformational project will forever change the landscape of our downtown, ensuring greater community access while also re-centering Rochester's deep waterfront history. This investment creates new opportunities for future development focused on an environment that is welcoming for all. Thank you to Governor Kathy Hochul and Empire State Development for your continued commitment to the city of Rochester.”
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello said, "The Genesee River and Erie Canal are at the spiritual and physical center of our downtown. This Aqueduct Reimagined project will create new gathering spaces, new pathways along the river, and will change the way people live, work, and play downtown. Thanks to Gov. Hochul for her leadership in enabling state and local collaboration on transformative projects, and for her vision for how projects like this can reshape our city center."
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