Next week, the public will have the opportunity to learn more about an initiative by the state parks to invest $6 million in the expansion of “Crow’s Nest,” a walking path and viewing platform located on the American side of the Falls.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has scheduled a public info session regarding the plan for Nov. 14. Park officials from the state will present sketches of the proposed concept, according to a report by The Niagara Gazette.
The Crow’s Nest is situated near The American Falls and is accessed by descending to The Maid of the Mist boarding area. The current set of stairs permits visitors to walk towards a photo area, then turn around to return.
State park officials say the expansion plan will permit visitors to walk up the gorge and to Prospect Point.
The upgrades are in process to offer visitors more access to the Falls, increase security features, and improve the perspectives of the Falls, according to a spokesperson for the state park.
The whole project is expected to cost approximately $6 million.
U.S. Rep. Brian Higgins, a Buffalo-based Republican, revealed on September 1st that the office of his representative had helped get the $2.5 million grant to the project from the National Park Service through the Land and Water Conservation Fund.
A press release from Higgins Office indicated that the funding to support Niagara Falls State Park is funded by conservation funds’ State and Local Assistance Program, which requires a 50% match. The funds are designed to help create a “seamless system of parks” across the country.
The Crow’s Next extension meeting is scheduled from 5:30 pm to 7 pm on November 14 at the Training area at DeVeaux Woods State Park, 3180 DeVeaux Woods Drive.
A formal presentation is scheduled to be held around 6:30 pm.