Research

Scope and Content Note

B0393-16: As with the earlier construction periods of the Erie Canal, the State used private contractors for construction of the Barge Canal. Each contract had a specific predetermined scope of work. When the work was concluded by the contractor, the State's engineers conducted a final evaluation of the work performed. These final estimates were the official record that specified exactly and in detailed fashion just what was built. Contracted work included the construction of such structures as locks, bridges, and canal channels. Often, during construction, alterations were made to the original contract as the nature of the work or new needs demanded. The final estimates also document those changes. Settlements with the contractors were defined by the final estimates. These final accounts then became the "as-built" record and have continued to be used as these century-old structures are maintained and upgraded.