One thing about the lock funding, etc...
All 33 locks and the canal itself are managed by the NYS Thruway department. The entire canal operations take 3% of their budget. I don't think it generates much revenue - it's not even enough to get to 1% to show up on their balance sheet.
But having the canal is a great marketing move for the Thruway. That large highway takes tourism away from so many of the small towns in upstate NY. The canal system gives them something to show toward giving back to the communities. It provides wonderful exposure and great PR for 3%.
It's one of the few, outstanding deals for boaters.
All 33 locks and the canal itself are managed by the NYS Thruway department. The entire canal operations take 3% of their budget. I don't think it generates much revenue - it's not even enough to get to 1% to show up on their balance sheet.
But having the canal is a great marketing move for the Thruway. That large highway takes tourism away from so many of the small towns in upstate NY. The canal system gives them something to show toward giving back to the communities. It provides wonderful exposure and great PR for 3%.
It's one of the few, outstanding deals for boaters.