Foundation Receives $250,000 Grant for Lock Restoration

The Erie Canal Foundation has been awarded a $250,000 grant from the New York State Historic Preservation Office to fund the restoration of Lock 33 in Rochester. This significant investment will help preserve one of the canal’s most historically important structures for future generations.

Lock 33, originally built in 1825 and rebuilt during the canal’s enlargement in the 1840s, has suffered from decades of weathering and water damage. The restoration project will stabilize the stone walls, repair the original wooden gate mechanisms, and install interpretive signage for visitors.

A Community Effort

“This grant represents a tremendous vote of confidence in our preservation work,” said the Foundation’s executive director. “Lock 33 is not just a piece of infrastructure — it’s a testament to the ingenuity and determination of the workers who built the canal nearly 200 years ago.”

The restoration is expected to begin in late spring and will be completed by fall 2026. Volunteers interested in contributing to the project can sign up through our Volunteer page.