Van Buren officials have applied for a grant to make improvements to the Erie Canalway Trail.
Seeking $159,000, the town plans to use funds to build a handicap accessible restroom along the 12,400-foot portion of the trail in Memphis, as well as remove brush and sediment from the canal, resurface the stone dust trail and build two kayak/canoe launches.
“The trail is in need of substantial rehabilitation to restore historical integrity,” said Town Attorney Jeff Brown.
Should the grant be awarded, the town would be responsible for 20 percent of the project cost that can be completed through in-kind services, which means no out-of-pocket costs for the town. Brown said the town should know in two to three months whether the grant will be awarded.
