News Release – Public Access to Genesee River at Lower Falls Closed
City of Rochester
News Release
(Friday, February 09, 2018) – Rochester Gas and Electric has closed public access to the Lower Falls/Genesee River from its Brewer Street Hydro Station due to the possibility of a sudden flow of water. The recent cold snaps followed by historic warm temperatures and snow melt could cause a sudden increase in the river flow from its spill gates.
The temporary closure is from Middle Falls to the Veterans Memorial Bridge (Route 104 Overpass) at Genesee River (Keeler Expressway). The City has closed the entrances at the top of Hastings Street and the stairs in Maplewood Park.
Rochester Gas and Electric is installing a temporary dam to help ease the flow of water while upgrades are conducted on the spill gates. The City urges all fisherman and others who access the river via the affected entrances to heed these warnings until river access reopens,
The Lower Falls access remains closed and likely will remain closed for the rest of February, as the upgrades being conducted by RG&E are not completed. If the work is completed before the end of February, and water levels remain low, they will consider opening the Seth Green Access early.
