Public Hearing on the Eric Canal Conservation Overlay District to be held on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at 7:30 PM in Perinton Town Hall.
Town Supervisor Ciaran Hanna today announced the Town of Perinton is taking action to establish an Erie Canal Conservation Overlay District (ECCO). This new initiative is aimed at preserving and safeguarding the historic Erie Canal, which has played a crucial role in the Town’s history and continues to be a valuable community resource. A public hearing on the creation of the ECCO is set to be held on Wednesday, November 8, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. at Perinton Town Hall, 1350 Turk Hill Rd, 14450. Those who cannot attend are welcome to submit comments to Town Clerk Janelle Reed.
The ECCO is derived from the Town’s 2021 Comprehensive Plan and is rooted in the Town’s commitment to protect and enhance the Erie Canal, ensuring its significance for future generations. This iconic waterway, once a bustling transportation and industrial hub in the 1800s, has evolved into a cultural gem, offering a variety of recreational activities and tourism opportunities. It stands as a cornerstone of the town’s identity, connecting residents and visitors to its historical roots.
“I firmly believe that our community’s greatest strength lies in our shared commitment to preserving the Erie Canal’s natural beauty and historic significance,” said Hanna. “By implementing these standards, the Town of Perinton is taking a proactive step toward preserving the Erie Canal for future generations. I am proud of our Town for taking this thoughtful and direct approach as we shape a sustainable future that honors our past and offers a vibrant legacy for generations to come.”
In a significant move to protect and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the Erie Canal, key objectives of the ECCO District include:
- Preserving the natural, scenic, and historic value along the Erie Canal.
- Protecting woodlands, wetlands, and green spaces adjacent to the canal.
- Providing public access and recreational opportunities for boaters, pedestrians, cyclists, and other canal users.
- Utilizing vegetation and green infrastructure to reduce stormwater runoff into the Erie Canal.
- Regulating uses and structures along the canal to prevent erosion and sedimentation and improve water quality.
- Encouraging land uses that complement the canal’s aesthetic, environmental, economic, and cultural value.
The ECCO District encompasses the entire length of the Erie Canal in the Town of Perinton, outside the Village of Fairport, and includes and all lands on each side that are 200 feet from the waterside top of bank of the Canal.
To ensure the success of this initiative, the ECCO District outlines specific regulations for permitted uses, setback requirements, and a comprehensive review process. In addition, it emphasizes the importance of appropriate vegetation and tree preservation, as well as the conservation of historic and cultural resources in the area.
Community benefits are a significant focus of the ECCO District, such as, promoting canal-front use and access, recreational facilities, and public gathering places for the enjoyment of residents and visitors.
The Town of Perinton recognizes the Erie Canal’s unique role in the community and is dedicated to safeguarding the historical and cultural treasure. The ECCO District represents a forward-looking approach to ensure the Erie Canal remains a vital part of the Town’s identity for years to come.
Learn more and view the full ECCO presentation.
