Congresswoman Tenney Announces $1 Million in Community Project Funding for Lockport’s Historic “Flight of Five”

Lockport, NY - Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24) today held a press conference in Lockport to announce $1 million in Community Project Funding for Phase III of the Erie Canal Flight of Five Locks Rehabilitation Project. This funding advances the next stage of a long-term effort to restore one of the most significant engineering landmarks in American history. The $1 million was included in legislation advanced by the House as part of the annual appropriations process.

The Flight of Five is the largest remaining intact section of the historic Erie Canal and features a unique series of five parallel locks. After serving as an inactive spillway for nearly a century, local leaders began rehabilitation efforts more than twenty years ago to restore the site and support community revitalization. Economic analysis estimates that a fully restored Flight of Five could attract up to 230,000 visitors annually, generate nearly $17 million in economic activity, support more than 300 jobs, and add approximately $600,000 in new tax revenue to Niagara County. The project has been designated a Regional Priority Project by Empire State Development.

"The Flight of Five tells the story of Lockport's role in building New York and the nation, and this investment helps ensure that story continues to be told for generations to come," said Congresswoman Tenney. "This $1 million in Community Project Funding moves the next phase of restoration forward, strengthens local economic development, and preserves an irreplaceable piece of our history. Community Project Funding allows communities to set their own priorities and advance projects through the regular legislative process, and this project reflects years of local leadership, planning, and collaboration. Supporting investments like this remains a priority because they protect our heritage, create opportunity, and deliver lasting benefits for Lockport and Western New York. While the House has passed this funding, I urge Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand to support the commonsense appropriations package to codify this project into law and join me in delivering for the City of Lockport."

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