Who we are?

 
  • We bring people to the water and believe rowing and kayaking shared with all Rochesterians will build a community that delights in our local waterways, and the lifelong enjoyment of paddling and rowing. Self sustaining as a 501(c)(3), we will be a partner to our socio-economically diverse community by promoting education, fitness, and goodwill.

  • In its 30 year history, Genesee Waterways Center has been the community champion for rowing, sculling and kayaking and has spawned additional rowing opportunities throughout the Greater Rochester area. GWC has supported rowing start ups by loaning equipment, coaching support, providing leadership and infrastructure support and partnering with the organizations in their growth initiatives.

    In addition to the boathouse, GWC operates the only man-made whitewater park in the State of New York at Lock 32. This provides additional access to water activities and when necessary, allows us to move people to this more controlled environment where there is guaranteed flow via the New York State Canal Corporation.

    GWC is proud to have remained the center of kayaking and rowing development in the city, while also fostering additional opportunities throughout the region. We provide storage and easy access for tenants and continue to build, adapt and improve our services and programs. We recognize that investing in our operations and the boathouse facility improves our ability to engage a wide range of city residents in the unique experiences on the Genesee River that we offer.

  • Our partnerships with many schools and universities in our community continues to grow and provides Rochester students with what is often their first time experience with water sports (ex. Canoes and kayaks) and an opportunity to explore the river in the center of their city. Years after their canoeing or kayaking experience on the Genesee River and surrounding area, students have come back to say how much they remember the trip and how grateful they were for such an experience.

  • Board of Directors:

    President - Tom Kosanke

    Vice-President - Alex Macur

    Treasurer/Bookkeeper – Paul Underhill

    Secretary – Open (Alex Macur – temporary)

    James Farr – City Representative

    Jane Possee

    Jerry Koehler

    Steve Kittelberger

    Sarah Lobe – legal support as necessary

    Operations:

    Operations Director – Shannon Grieve

    Rowing Program – Jeff Swift

    Lock 32 - Paul Twist

  • Interested in joining the GWC Board of Directors? Contact us to learn more. Contact us

  • Interested in joining our operation team at either location? Let us know!

  • Contact us with your questions!