ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Controversial plans to cut down trees along the Erie Canal are being modified.

State Sen. Rich Funke (R-55) tweeted that The New York Power Authority and the Canal Corporation will take a two phase approach to the project.

They say the trees need to come down for public safety.

Funke says phase one will include removal of dead vegetation and underbrush so inspectors can do visual checks.

However, he says, there will be no work until February 2.

Then phase two is expected to be "carefully tailored" after meeting with neighbors who live along the embankment. 

Some neighbors have protested the project, demanding more details as to why the trees need to be removed.