Orleans tourism director named to Canal Commission

Press release, State Sen. George Maziarz

Wayne Hale of Medina has been appointed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo to serve as a member of the New York State Canal Recreationway Commission.

Hale has worked as Director of the Orleans County Planning and Development Department since 1986, Tourism Project Director for Orleans County’s I Love NY Program since 1992, and Manager of the Orleans County Marine Park since 1998.

“Wayne is a consummate professional who is widely respected across the state for his experience and wisdom relating to tourism and planning matters,” said State Sen. George Maziarz. “He will be a great Orleans County voice and I was proud to recommend him for appointment to this important panel.”

The Canal Recreationway Commission maintains and revises the Canal Recreationway Plan and makes recommendations to the Thruway Authority, Canal Corporation, and state leaders concerning the future of the canal system.

“I’m deeply gratified that Sen. Maziarz considered me for nomination as a Commission member,” Hale said. “This is a capstone event in my 31-year career at the Orleans County Planning Department. We’ve lead sizable efforts in planning, development and promotion of the Erie Canal, locally and regionally, and my appointment brings the prospect of applying that experience to a new and greater challenge.”

Passionate as he is about canal and tourism matters, Hale has been active with the Genesee/Finger Lakes Region Erie Canal Corridor Plan, Seaway Trail National Scenic Byway, the New York State Heritage Areas Advisory Council, Western New York Canal Coalition, Canal New York Marketing and Business Alliance, and several other groups.

Hale’s term as Canal Recreationway Commission member expires on March 23, 2017. For more information about the commission, click here.