Benjamin R. Walsh, who has served as Mayor of Syracuse since 2018, has been appointed as the new Director of the New York State Canal Corporation, according to an announcement from Governor Kathy Hochul. The appointment comes as Brian U. Stratton, who has led the organization since April 2011, is set to retire at the end of December.
Governor Hochul praised Walsh’s tenure in Syracuse and his track record in economic development and innovation. “Ben Walsh delivered real results for Syracuse, from revitalizing neighborhoods to preparing workers for the jobs of the future,” said Governor Hochul. “His experience driving collaboration and transformative growth will be an asset as we move into the historic canal system’s third century and will benefit the Canal Corporation, canal communities, and New Yorkers and tourists alike.”
During his time as mayor, Walsh initiated several programs aimed at revitalizing Syracuse. He launched Syracuse Surge with a goal of establishing the city as New York’s flagship smart city. He also expanded affordable housing through the Resurgent Neighborhoods Initiative and created Syracuse Build to prepare residents for careers related to major infrastructure projects like I-81 reconstruction. In addition, he managed federal relief funding during the COVID-19 pandemic.
NYPA President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll commented on Walsh’s new role: “I am pleased to welcome Ben Walsh to the Canal Corporation as we chart the next century for the organization. His experience guiding transformative projects in Syracuse demonstrates a pragmatic approach to economic development, stakeholder collaboration, and long-term sustainability. As we continue to revitalize the Canals to drive recreation, tourism, and economic growth, Mayor Walsh’s vision and expertise will be invaluable in ensuring that this historic system remains a source of pride for New York State.”
Walsh expressed gratitude for his selection: “New York State’s canal system is a jewel, and I have seen firsthand the positive impact the people of the New York State Canal Corporation have made on the economy, recreation and environment in communities across Upstate New York. I am grateful to Governor Hochul and NYPA President and CEO Justin Driscoll for asking me to join the Canal Corporation team and build on the history, progress and potential of the canal system.”
Stratton noted Walsh’s qualifications: “Ben Walsh is a proven municipal chief executive and independent thinker to steer New York’s 200-year-old Canal system into its next century of service. Mayor Walsh will bring the proud legacy of public service and an accomplished record of leading a major upstate city on the Erie Canal to ensure New York’s iconic waterway will continue to fuel the growth and sustainability of more than 200 canal communities along its shores.”
The New York Power Authority (NYPA), which oversees 17 generating facilities across more than 1,550 miles of transmission lines—primarily producing clean renewable hydropower—manages operations through revenue from electricity sales rather than state taxes or appropriations.
The New York State Canal Corporation operates four historic canals—the Erie, Champlain, Oswego, and Cayuga-Seneca—that span over 500 miles linking key waterways throughout upstate New York.