View of the Vischer Ferry Hydro Power plant before the 1987 expansion.

Under Chapter 532, Laws of 1922, the Superintendent of Public Works was authorized to develop the potential water power at the new Barge Canal dams located at Crescent and Vischer Ferry.  All Contract work at both plants was completed in 1925.

The equipment at each plant included two 2800 Kw, 0.8 power factor, 3 phase, 60 cycle, 2300 volt, 90 rpm vertical generators, each directly connected with and powered by a 4,000 horse power, reaction-type, Francis turbine.  The generators were furnished by General Electric.

Both power plants were officially conveyed to the Power Authority of the State of New York on 13 March 1984 by the New York State Department of Transportation.

In 1987 the Power Authority added 6,000 kilowatts of capacity to each plant, more than doubling their capacity.  The additional electricity replaced about 3,200,000 gallons of oil annually.  The vertical turbines were purchased from Voith Hydro of York, Pennsylvania.  Both the Crescent and Vischer Ferry dams and powerhouses were rehabilitated at this time.

This is one of several stops at key features along the Mohawk Towpath Byway.  Use your smart phone or electronic devise to learn more about the Byway.

Self Guided Tour Stops