The plan is to build an outdoor working model of the canal on the property of the Holcombe Jimison Farmstead in Lambertville, located near the original feeder canal. Below is the most recent proposed layout to resemble the Y outline of the canal.

The canal would be dug to a depth of 5″ with 4″ of above grade banks. It would be rubber lined and covered with bentonite clay and riprap. The water at the summit would be supplied by a buried cistern at the head level of the canal and circulated using a battery operated pump.

The model would include five working locks on the three routes (Bordentown to Trenton, Trenton to Lambertville, and Trenton to New Brunswick).

The locks would be made of wood, stone, and cement. Operation of the locks would also be battery operated, with sensors installed on both the boats and locks so that they open as the boat approaches and close once it passes through.

Bridges crossing the canal will also be constructed in period details and materials.

The current model is a replica of the steam tug “Relief”.  This type of tug boat operated on the canal beginning in the 1840’s. The plan is to build three tugs towing workboats, operating simultaneously on different parts of the canal. They could be driven remotely by a volunteer, “captain”, or a computerized control system linked with the operation of the locks.

Once the construction is complete, a fence enclosing the canal model area will be installed to protect it when not in use.

The plan is to select a period appropriate fence that would blend in well with the Farmstead and also be low maintenance.

We will also create a set of educational materials to coordinate with the canal’s operation, using a variety of already well researched sources.

A rough budget to date indicates that we will need roughly $4,400 which does not yet include costs for the electronic control systems and other materials.

We hope to get donations from local Lambertville businesses that specialize in construction materials. And the D&R Canal Watch has generously offered to match whatever funds we raise up to $2,500.

It has been difficult to plan a fundraising event during the past year due to Covid. We still need to explore what types of events we can safely hold and/or consider other avenues for raising funds.

Construction of boats, locks, and bridges which can be done in a home workshop. Included in this is any experience in robotics or building remote controlled vehicles.

Fundraising ideas implementation, and seeking donations.

On site construction.

Please complete the form below if you are interested in helping.