Governor George E. Pataki announced an $8 million rehabilitation of Erie Canal Locks 34 and 35 in Lockport as part of the 1999 Thruway Authority/Canal Corporation capital improvement program.

"These locks are among the most beautiful and historic along the 524-mile New York State Canal System," Governor Pataki said. "Tourists come by water and land to marvel at the engineering wonder these locks represent, and to enjoy the history and serenity of Lockport. Rehabilitation of the locks is crucial to the continued economic success of Lockport and surrounding canal communities."

Work will begin on the $8 million project in late summer 2000 and will include rehabilitation of gate machinery and valves at the middle and lower ends of the double lock. A $3 million contract in 1996 included similar work on the upper end of Lock 35.

A swing buffer beam at the lower end of Lock 34 will also be rehabilitated and preserved. The beam, which dates back to the locks' original construction in 1911, is used when maintenance crews "de-water" the lock.

Other work is scheduled to include repairs to correct turbulence problems affecting smaller boats within the Lock 34 chamber, and repairs of the lock walls to allow the reopening of certain areas currently restricted from public access.

Canal Corporation Chairman Howard E. Steinberg said, "Lockport is a popular destination and launching location for boaters along the canal system. These repairs will not only help to preserve this historic treasure but enable its users to access and enjoy this wonderful portion of the waterway well into the 21st Century."