American side of Niagara Falls could go dry for repairs

DETROIT – Within the next three years, the American side of Niagara Falls could go dry.

The unique collective of three waterfalls that lines the border of the U.S. and Canada will be "dewatered" for the first time since 1969, according to the Buffalo News.

In 1969, researchers stopped the flow of water to study the effects of erosion at the base of the falls.

The New York State parks system wants to stop it again, to replace two 115-year-old stone arch bridges that allow access to goat island. Officials say the bridges, built in 1901, are deteriorating. The cost would be between $21.6 million and $37.3 million.

The proposal will be voted on Wednesday at the Niagara Falls Conference Center.