Lockport Residents Can Experience Storms that Cause Home Damage

11/9/2020 (Permalink)

Stormy weather in Lockport? No Problem, our SERVPRO green fleet can arrive swiftly for cleanup and restoration

SERVPRO Can Provide Storm Flooding Cleanup in Lockport When Bad Weather Strikes

Roughly 18 miles from Niagara Falls is one of the most rapidly expanding cities in upstate New York. The town of Lockport is rich in history with a promising future. Once a thriving center for commerce and industry, much of the business today comes from heavy industry and research-oriented manufacturing. It is a friendly town known as the Niagara Frontier and has much to offer those looking to relocate to the area.

Ancient History to Incorporation

The Neuter Indians once lived in the area that is now Lockport city. Ancient artifacts have been discovered dating back to 8,000 B.C. It was a fertile land where settlers could come and develop farms. They could grow a large variety of fruits and vegetables in the rich soil.

The town split from Cambria and Royalton and was incorporated on February 2, 1824. Settlers came from all over to explore the land. They came from:

• Scotland
• England
• Germany
• Ireland
• Italy

They found themselves following Indian trails, many of which would become roads. Transit Road is still in existence and got its start in 1798. The road began at the Pennsylvania Line and ran to Lake Ontario and was 92 miles long and 800 feet wide. There were three toll roads in the town during this time, and Transit Road was the first. Many people, animals, and wagons moved along that roadway as the town began to grow.

Change Comes with the Erie Barge Canal

In 1825, Lockport began their portion of the Erie Barge Canal. The then western terminus of the canal was home to a tavern that was also a mail stop. This brought about a serious change to the location as it encouraged further growth.

While small in size, to begin with, the canal was enlarged twice. The first time was in 1860, then later in 1909. It is no longer used for industrial purposes but is a favorite area for recreational activities. Residents can enjoy concerts, cycling, fishing, jogging, and walking trails.

Modern Transportation

Lockport was quite modern with its trolley line from Buffalo to Lake Ontario with a stop at Olcott in between. Several railroads had paths through the town. Some of these are still in use today.  With these modern conveniences came growth.

Education – The Road to a Successful Future

In 1956 many schools were consolidated, but at one time, there were 16 one-room schoolhouses. Students of all grades were taught in these schools, as learning was important to the community from the beginning. If you wish to step back in time, you can visit the District 5 “Pomeroy” school. The Town of Lockport Historical Society renovated the schoolhouse, and visitors can see the techniques that Dr. Ruth Muck used when teaching. It still has the original school bell. 4-H is a significant outreach in the area, which is another educational arm of the community. Kids can learn about so many things, including:

• Gardening
• Modeling
• Animal science
• Nutrition
• Dinner theater
• Ecology
• Crafts

General Motors Brings Jobs

Today the biggest employer in the area is General Motors Components. The company began in 1912 as the Harrison Radiator Company, and in 1918 General Motors Corporation incorporated it as a division of the company.

Beautiful Place to Explore

Lockport is a lovely town with the Erie Canal running right through the town’s center. A set of two modern locks at the Niagara Escarpment is where the canal climbs. Visitors can enjoy boat rides at the Erie Canal Cruises and Lockport Locks. Other places of interest include:

• Canal Discovery Center – Close to the locks, the center is in an old church.
• Lockport Erie Canal Museum – Experience history through photos, antique machinery, and more. This is in an old lock control structure and is the only remaining “Flight of Five” Locks spillway of the original five.
• Niagara County Historical Society – Learn the history of Niagara by exploring the Society’s rich archives and displays.
• Lockhart Cave and Underground Boat Ride Tour – Located near the locks, it is a fun adventure for the entire family.
• 100 American Craftsman – Annual arts and crafts show.
• Ida Fritz Park – Host to many local events, including the Taste of Lockport and summer Cruise Nights.
• New Ice Rink for the Lockport Express and Clarence Mustangs.
• Home to the widest bridge in North American. It spans the canal.

Not only is Lockport a great place to live but a fantastic place to visit. It has its own historical and enjoyable venues and is close to Niagara Falls. An excellent place for a base when exploring the Falls. Plenty of bed and breakfasts or hotels to make any stay pleasant.

Storms Can Hit Anywhere at Any Time

Storm damage occurs all across the county, but cities near water can be especially susceptible. In the last 100 years, sea levels have risen. The result is an increase in both the number of storms and the flooding they can cause. Coastal towns should always be prepared for unexpected flooding. SERVPRO encourages Lockport residents to have a plan in place in case of storm flooding. This includes things such as:

• Have an evacuation plan in place.
• Prepare emergency supplies such as water and batteries.
• Make copies of important documents and have them ready to go.
• Ensure you have an out-of-area contact as a communication center.
• Talk to your homeowner’s insurance company and have the needed flood insurance coverage.

Professional Storm Damage Mitigation

If you need storm flooding cleanup in Lockport, SERVPRO has the experience, expertise, and equipment to tackle the job. Our technicians possess their Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). We understand what is needed to keep our employees and you safe during the floodwater restoration process. You can expect our crew to:

• Provide any emergency mitigation services needed
• Remove structural components and content that cannot be salvaged
• Contain the spread of contaminated water
• Sanitize impacted surfaces
• Water extraction and drying of premises
• Perform controlled demolition as needed
• Clean, repair, and restore your home to preloss condition whenever possible

SERVPRO of Eastern Niagara County is available around the clock for storm flooding cleanup. Contact us at (716) 694-7776 if we can help you in any way.