Lockport is one step closer to restoring it's historic locks to working order.
The city announced Saturday it's completed the reconstruction of Lock 68, the third of the Erie Canal's "staircase locks" to be rehabilitated. It's part of the Flight of Five project— a multi-million dollar initiative that started back in 2014.
City leaders say the finished locks system will enhance the local canal heritage as a tourist destination.
"Our local businesses, our restaurants, our tourist spots, our zipline and tours, all of that is tied into the canal," Lockport Mayor Michelle Roman said.
Organizers are working to find funding to rehab the final two locks. They're hoping to finish by 2025, the bicentennial of the canal's completion.
Crowds of people commemorated the lock's rehab Saturday at "Locktoberfest" on Canal Street. Festival coordinators say the event is a celebration of all the farms, food, crafts and community you can find along the canal's shores.
"Lockport is a really welcoming community," Jessica Dittly, Lockport Main Street, Inc. executive director said. "I've been here since 2007, and nothing has ever felt more like home than Lockport. I'm just excited to spread that sense of community wider through there programs and events."
Locktoberfest featured lots of food, music and tours of the locks and district museum.