Mayor Malik D. Evans announced the return of ROC the Riverway Weekend, celebrating the revitalization of Rochester’s Genesee River waterfront with three days of events from Oct. 4–6 at various locations on and near the river.
“ROC the Riverway Weekend celebrates the incredible and ongoing transformation of our riverfront and invites the community to experience Rochester’s natural beauty and progress,” said Mayor Evans. “This don’t-miss weekend features events that showcase the incredible majesty of the Genesee as well as the ambitious projects we’ve undertaken to create vibrant public spaces, spur economic growth, and deliver equity to our neighborhoods. I’m deeply grateful to the volunteers and partners who help make this celebration possible and for their dedication to revitalizing one of our city’s greatest assets.”
Dating back more than 40 years, ROC the Riverway Weekend is a series of events designed to give residents and visitors a chance to explore the past, present, and future of the city’s relationship with the Genesee River, along with Lake Ontario and the Erie Canal.
Events include scenic and birding-focused boat cruises, tours of the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse, guided walking, bicycle and paddle tours, historical presentations, a chance to view the fall salmon run, and a sturgeon release near the Lower Falls. Tours of the historic aqueduct former Erie Canal and subway system are also on schedule. The Genesee River Alliance and Tour Blend have partnered to create several self-guided tours using the Tour Blend mobile app.
ROC the Riverway is Rochester’s most ambitious public works program encompassing more than 30 projects along the Genesee River to create a series of waterfront destinations along with a completed Genesee Riverway Trail.
The initiative includes projects such as completing the Genesee Riverway Trail through Center City and redesigning Austin Steward Plaza and Genesee Crossroads Park. It also envisions significant upgrades to major riverfront facilities including Blue Cross Arena at War Memorial; Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center; Rundel Memorial Library building; among others. More information about ROC the Riverway can be found at: www.cityofrochester.gov/roctheriverway.
For a full list of ROC the Riverway Weekend events, visit www.cityofrochester.gov/roc-riverway-weekend.
