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Council adopts resolution supporting Harriet Tubman Byway nomination
Summary
Geneva City Council unanimously approved a resolution on June 3 supporting the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad New York Scenic Byway nomination, a 550‑mile corridor project that would pass through Geneva and seek state designation.
The Geneva City Council voted unanimously on June 3 to adopt a resolution supporting the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad New York Scenic Byway nomination and corridor management plan.
Director Venuti summarized the statewide effort and said the proposed byway route would pass through Geneva on Route 14 and along parts of Main Street and Route 20. The byway consortium and New York State Department of Transportation support the nomination, and local resolutions are part of the application process. The project’s website was given as harriettubmancorridornewyork.com.
Ellie Sponger DeGan, representing the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center and the state‑wide consortium, told council that Ontario County had already adopted a supporting resolution and that Geneva’s participation would help secure designation for initial segments. She noted local historical connections — including ties between Geneva and Underground Railroad sites — and said the designation would enable educational programming and tourism opportunities tied to the corridor’s historic sites.
Ending: Councilors voted in favor and the resolution will be forwarded as part of the consortium’s submission to state officials; staff and proponents said next steps include corridor management planning and outreach to communities along the route.
