Construction is getting underway on a major Geneva lakefront project that will replace aging marina docks, add an accessible kayak launch and stabilize Long Pier along Seneca Lake.
The Marina Amenities and Long Pier Stabilization Project is being funded with a $750,000 allocation from Geneva’s $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative award and $924,000 through the state’s Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, for a combined $1.674 million in state funding.
The project includes removal of the existing floating dock system and installation of approximately 3,440 square feet of new floating docks. It will also add an accessible floating kayak launch, a new 35-foot-by-4-foot gangway, repairs to the existing fixed bulkhead and stabilization work across approximately 12,400 square feet of Long Pier.
The new kayak launch is designed to improve access for people of varying ages and abilities. Features will include a transfer bench, grab rails, overhead bars and an accessible gangway.
Final piece of Geneva’s DRI work
The marina project is the final project to be completed through Geneva’s $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative investment.
Geneva was selected as the Finger Lakes winner in the first round of the DRI program in 2016.
Since then, funding has supported a broad mix of downtown and waterfront projects, including streetscape improvements, work at the Smith Opera House, redevelopment of the former theater now occupied by Twisted Rail Brewery, Lakefront Tunnel improvements, restoration of the Patent Block and Dove Block buildings, Solar Village and Routes 5&20 streetscape work.
The city also used a $600,000 building improvement fund to assist renovations at nine buildings and 16 commercial spaces.
The marina project itself dates back even further. It was first identified in Geneva’s 2012 Waterfront Infrastructure Feasibility Study before later being prioritized through the DRI process.
Equipment coming by water from Cape Vincent
Construction equipment for the pier stabilization and dock installation will arrive in Geneva by barge from Cape Vincent on the St. Lawrence River.
According to the state Department of State, Seaway Marine Group will move the equipment from Lake Ontario through the Oswego Canal and Erie Canal, then down the Cayuga-Seneca Canal to Seneca Lake.
State officials said the route reflects Geneva’s canal history and the broader effort to increase boating and commercial activity along New York’s canal system.
Project aimed at aging waterfront infrastructure
The work is intended to address deteriorating infrastructure at one of Geneva’s most heavily used waterfront areas while increasing marina capacity and improving public access.
Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said the project combines downtown revitalization with waterfront investment.
“This is exactly the kind of strategic investment that strengthens communities, supports economic development and improves quality of life,” Mosley said.
Geneva Mayor Jim Cecere said the lakefront is central to the city’s identity and economy and that the project will help keep it accessible and resilient.
Acting City Manager Taylor Youngs said the work addresses “real infrastructure needs” while making improvements residents, boaters and visitors will be able to use directly.
Years of waterfront investment
The state’s Local Waterfront Revitalization Program has previously helped fund several other Geneva lakefront projects.
Those include $450,000 for design and construction of the Finger Lakes Visitor and Event Center, $625,000 for shoreline and access improvements from Castle Creek to Lakefront Beach, $800,000 for shoreline improvements and a multi-use path between Long Pier and Castle Creek, another $800,000 for additional Seneca Lake access improvements and $70,000 for design work tied to a Long Pier extension and marina expansion.
Geneva and the Seneca Watershed Intermunicipal Organization also completed a watershed plan in 2022 focused on protecting Seneca Lake water quality.
The city more recently received a state Smart Growth Community Planning grant to update its comprehensive plan and incorporate smart-growth principles into future land-use decisions.
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