What were The benefits and disadvantages of the construction of the Erie Canal and who experienced them?

The construction of the Erie Canal significantly boosted trade and transportation, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Great Lakes and facilitating the movement of goods and people. It benefited businesses and farmers in New York and the Midwest by reducing shipping costs and opening new markets. However, it also had disadvantages, such as the displacement of local communities and environmental impacts on the landscape. Workers involved in the construction faced harsh conditions and low wages, highlighting the human cost of this major infrastructure project.