BY JIMMY LAWTONNorth Country This Week

CANTON — Canton residents still have an opportunity to weigh in on the future of the community's waterfront by filling out a survey for the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program remains open.

Village officials reported during a recent Village Board meeting that approximately 80 responses had been submitted to the survey. Officials said the feedback is beginning to help identify potential projects and priorities for the waterfront, but the survey remains open for additional public input.

The survey is part of a broader effort to update Canton's waterfront plan and help guide future improvements and investments along the Grasse and Oswegatchie rivers.

The plan is being developed with funding from the New York State Department of State through the Environmental Protection Fund. 

A Waterfront Advisory Committee is working with Barton & Loguidice and the Department of State on the planning process.

The planning process is currently focused on documenting existing conditions and identifying issues, opportunities and priorities that can eventually help shape the plan's vision, policies and projects.

The Waterfront Advisory Committee has already identified a number of issues including Taylor Park Community Beach, which is currently closed for swimming because of flooding damage.  The site continues to provide boat access to the river, but the committee said in its last meeting that its long-term future remains uncertain.

Committee members have also discussed the need for better wayfinding and interpretive signage directing residents and visitors toward the Grasse River, along with additional opportunities for public access and recreation along the area's waterways.

Other issues identified through the planning process include flooding, stormwater drainage, shoreline conditions and damage to waterfront infrastructure caused by ice. 

The committee has also discussed recreational and community events at Willow Island, where a grant has been awarded for shoreline stabilization.

The waterfront planning area extends beyond the immediate village waterfront and includes portions of the Grasse, Oswegatchie and Little rivers, as well as the Indian Creek Preserve and other areas within the Town and Village of Canton.

Residents can take the survey  at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CantonLWRP