A new 274-step route beside the American Falls opened at Niagara Falls State Park, giving visitors an overlook within 35 feet of the falls and another way out of the Niagara Gorge.
The $12 million Cataract Stairs and Overlook project rebuilt and expanded the attraction formerly known as the Crow's Nest, Gov. Kathy Hochul's office announced.
New route adds safety and capacity
The project added 163 stairs to the existing structure and rises about 180 feet from the gorge. The non-mechanical route is intended to improve visitor circulation and provide an alternative to elevators returning Maid of the Mist passengers to the Observation Tower.
During part of the off-season, the stairs will provide two-way access to the overlook. Officials said the new design offers a close view of the American Falls while helping manage crowds during busy weekends.
State Parks Commissioner Kathy Moser said the attraction opened in time for Labor Day weekend. New York Power Authority President Justin Driscoll said the project would provide a safer way to experience the falls.
Maid of the Mist President Christopher Glynn said the stairs should reduce pressure on the elevators while expanding the visitor experience.
State, federal and private funds supported work
Mark Cerrone Inc. performed the construction. Funding came from state parks capital funds, the Maid of the Mist Corp., the Niagara River Greenway and the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund.
The project is part of Hochul's “Get Offline, Get Outside” campaign, which encourages families and children to spend less time on phones and social media and more time in outdoor recreation.
The state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation manages more than 250 parks, historic sites, trails, golf courses and boat launches.
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