Fairport Industrial Development Agency Fairport Canal Redevelopment

Fairport became a crucial transportation stop along the canal route. Over time, it evolved into a bustling center of business and manufacturing. Many former industrial buildings have now been repurposed into residential, retail, and office spaces, but the canal is still a focal point. The Fairport Industrial Development Agency has spearheaded projects aimed at enhancing pedestrian connectivity and improving access to the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor, which runs through the heart of the community. These projects aim to create a welcoming and pedestrian-friendly environment, revealing amenities, views, and connections.

GPI supplied landscape architecture and engineering services for two projects around the North and Southwest Banks. One project aimed to enhance the North Bank from N Main Street to the Railroad Junction Tower and existing boat docks. This project involved creating new park space with ADA-accessible docks, a kayak launch, a refurbished boat ramp, an observation deck, an information kiosk, amenities for comfort, lighting, landscaping, wayfinding and heritage signage, bank stabilization, and the restoration of the signal house. The second project focused on enhancing the Southwest Bank to connect residents and visitors to the Erie Canal and Main Street. The design incorporates green infrastructure such as vegetated bioswales to manage stormwater runoff, creating attractive garden features while maintaining water quality and sustainability.