As those who have followed this blog know we had a very good year in 2018. There will be more detail and photographs in the Mohawk Towpath Scenic Byway’s Annual Report. Just to point out some of our successes:

• Completed a birding trail in the Vischer Ferry Nature and Historic Preserve. 
• Played host to a Byway Leadership Training program at the historic Grooms Tavern.
• Our Story Telling Summit was attended by 36 people from several states in the northeast and midwest.
• The Friends of the Byway fostered a new partnership with Druthers Brewing Company a new major sponsor for the Duathlon.
• Installed two new interpretive kiosks this year: one in Cohoes and one in Niskayuna.
• Enhancements to our self guided cell phone tour in Colonie, Halfmoon, Schenectady, Scotia, and Waterford attracted a record number of new users.

Volunteers remain the core of the Byway’s success.  In 2018 volunteers of all ages, all backgrounds and a number of faiths donated 2,000 hours for the Byway’s events, projects, and objectives.  These hours have been valued at nearly $54,000 and a portion used as local match to grants. But they provide much more for the community as well as a great sense of accomplishment and pride for those who donate. For this we are all grateful.