Rome unites to clean up damage in the wake of rare tornado

On July 13, 2024, more than 500 cyclists and volunteers on the Cycle the Erie Tour made an exciting stop in Rome, the birthplace of the Erie Canal and home to the historic Fort Stanwix National Monument.

Traditionally, Rome has been a brief overnight stop for the annual Cycle the Erie tour. However, this year, as a newly designated Empire State Trail Town, Rome went above and beyond to welcome riders. The city closed Dominick Street and hosted a vibrant block party with food trucks, live music, local vendors, a Bike and Barge tour, and the opening night of the summer stage at the Capitol Theater. The event was a massive hit, and a favorite stop for many of the riders.

Just five days later, on July 16, Rome faced an unexpected and devastating challenge. A rare EF2 tornado with 135 mph winds tore through the city, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake.

The neighborhoods north and south of Dominick Street, the site of the CTEC block party, faced the most damage. The tornado shattered windows, overturned vehicles, and demolished buildings, including the mural of Peter Gansevoort. The iconic steeple and roof of the First Presbyterian Church and St. Mary’s Church were destroyed, and the top floor of the senior living facility was ripped open, displacing 60 residents.

The aftermath of the tornado was a dark and challenging time for Rome. With no power, debris and trees scattered like toothpicks–as described by Governor Hochul during her visit–the city's immediate priority was to restore normalcy and support its residents. The Department of Public Works (DPW) focused on clearing trees, securing properties, and addressing the urgent needs of the community.

Amidst the chaos, the newly formed Rome Waterways and Trails Advocacy Group (RWTAG) stepped up in a quiet show of resilience and community spirit. Recognizing a need for support, a small group of RWTAG volunteers took it upon themselves to clear the Mohawk River Trail and the Erie Canalway/Empire State Trail of downed trees and debris, helping to relieve the city’s DPW. Armed with their own chainsaws and rakes, these volunteers ensured that traveling cyclists could continue their journey safely and that residents had access to the trails and a sense of normalcy again.

This effort by the RWTAG volunteers highlights the strength and solidarity of this small but mighty community. Their actions serve as a testament to the resilience and unwavering spirit of Rome’s residents.

How can you help?

In appreciation of the City of Rome and their incredible hospitality, Parks & Trails New York has donated $1,000 to the Rome Emergency Resp onse Fund. All donations made to this emergency response fund will directly support relief and recovery efforts being undertaken by community nonprofit organizations and local municipalities. This effort will be a collaboration between several local foundations and funders to support the citizens of Rome. Learn more about how you can support Rome here.