Canalside is now the home of a new tugboat. The tug was built over the weekend for the kids, so that they may climb aboard and pretend that they are piloting the real thing. The puzzle pieces of the boat were fashioned by Kids Crooked House of Maine. Glen Halliday, founder of Kids Crooked House, spent two days in Buffalo constructing the tugboat at the passive kiddie beach at Canalside.
“We are excited to be part of such a vibrant location here at Canalside in downtown Buffalo,” says Glen Halliday, Founder of Kids Crooked House. “It is a fun project that allows us to make something funky and playful, while also having it have historical significance for a city with such a rich maritime history. We hope that this tugboat spurs generations of Buffalo children’s imaginations!”
The children’s tugboat was made possible by the Erie Canal Harbor Development Corporation (ECHDC). “This tugboat is a way to attract a brand new generation of people to the waterfront for active outdoor fun,“ said Robert Gioia, ECHDC Chairman. “This creative colorful structure is designed to draw children into a world of imaginative play. I’m sure it will be a hit with everyone who comes aboard and casts off on a new adventure that starts at Canalside.”
The children’s tug was designed to mimic the lines of the Great Lakes Towing Company tugs, that can be seen along the Buffalo River. The tug adds a fun Buffalo-themed play aspect to the Inner Harbor.
The project was sponsored by EduKids, an organization that provides early childhood programming for children (6 weeks through 12 years) in Greater Buffalo. “We are very excited about setting off on this new seafaring adventure and including children and families in the revitalization of Canalside,” said EduKids founder, Nancy Ware. “At EduKids, our mission combines education with imaginative play. This Tugboat is the perfect vessel to make that pairing a reality.”
Photos: Pamm Lent