Erie Canal Cyclists at Fort Stanwix
Channel: Going Somewhere
Date: 2023-07-14

2023, marks the 25th anniversary of the Erie Canal Cycling Tour. Beginning in Buffalo, and ending in Albany, New York. Every year9except a couple times), the tour camps-out at Fort Stanwix National Monument in Rome, New York. Well organized, with staff, whom set-up & dismantle tents. This year, there was a shuttle bus to take cyclists to various locations. And as every year, the Rome Police Department provides around-the-clock safety with a patrol assigned. Just a observation, it be nice if a bonfire could be organized on the grounds. Weather permitting. I think a bonfire every once in a while at Fort Stanwix, would attract many. Probably insurance issues, and regulations, that prevent such activity.
Tour cost for eight days, is now at over $1000 dollars. I can remember the cost being about $475. A separate $100 charge is for the shuttle, back to Buffalo, NY. Certainly hope the radical environmentally conscious governor, takes time from her lackadaisical schedule, to meet the cyclists for a few minutes and have a group picture. 
Anyone. Anyone at all, care to see the tour expanded? Perhaps a complete loop, beginning and ending in Buffalo, New York. There is also a four day tour, currently available.
I'd like to see a simple(inexpensive) map for the cyclists, so they have various ways of connecting with Martin Street, in the Copper City. Many pedal down South James Street, which is very dangerous. Drivers consistently travel way over the posted speed limit. A simpler route would be to go into Bellamy Harbor Park, onto Martin Street, where they can safely use a paved trail connecting with the Erie Canal Trail, to Oriskany, and Utica. I am surprised every year that local food truck venders, do not park near Fort Stanwix, during this event. Probably gotta attain a permit, which cost money, and aggravation. 
For a cycling tour, it's actually relaxing, and not difficult of a ride, as the Canal Trail is flat. Always nice to see them at Fort Stanwix. Happy & safe travels. Keep-on Pedaling.