BUFFALO, N.Y. -- The proposed Empire State Trail, a $200 million venture that connect the Erie Canalway Trail with the Hudson Valley Greenway, would create 750 miles of paved biking and hiking trail, according to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who says he wants to create the most expansive multi-use trail in the country.
"This announcement is really exciting for not only its ability to generate quality of life, to get more people out there walking and biking and exploring our communities, but really supporting economic development in Western New York," said Justin Booth, GO Bike Buffalo executive director.
Booth says the existing Erie Canalway Trail which stretches from Buffalo to Albany is a already a big draw, and extending the path could create opportunities throughout New York state.
"I've worked with lots of small towns and villages that are adjacent to the trail they see this as a huge opportunity to revitalize their Main Streets, get people back into our small towns and villages," said Booth.
"It'll give a new opportunity for people to travel to see different things outside of the cities itself," said Patrick Kaler, Visit Buffalo Niagara president.
Kaler says the trail could bring tourists not only to Buffalo, but to historic sites all over the state.
"You get to experience all the destination has to offer, going to restaurants, going to museums, taking in our breweries and distilleries," said Kaler.
"We have a beautiful set of historic buildings and unique places across the state and there's a huge opportunity to really tie that into this trail and get people excited about New York state and what it has to offer," said Booth.
Cuomo says he would like to see the trail finished by 2020.