Aqueduct District Street Improvements project breaks ground in downtown Rochester

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — City leaders held a ceremony on Tuesday for the groundbreaking of the Aqueduct District Street Improvements project.

The Aqueduct District in downtown will be transformed into a pedestrian-friendly area while maintaining access for vehicles. The improvements are a part of the ROC the Riverway initiative and the overall Aqueduct Reimagined and Riverfront Promenades vision.

“In the 1800s, the Aqueduct District, formerly the site of Child’s Basin, was the busiest point along the Erie Canal within Rochester,” said Mayor Malik Evans. “Improvements to the district will amplify the vibrancy being generated once again in this city.”

The project includes creating new sidewalks, lighting, and signage around the area including Aqueduct Street, Bank Place, Basin Street, Graves Street, and Race Street. Stone pavers will be added to Aqueduct Street to celebrate the historic nature of the site. Redevelopment should be complete by fall of 2023.