News
Counties Applaud State Investments in Local Roads, Bridges
- By: NYSAC
- On: 04/05/2016 15:57:44
- In: Press Releases
Counties Applaud State Investments in Local Road and Bridge Infrastructure
Counties Applaud State Investments in Local Road and Bridge InfrastructureThe New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) today applauded the Governor and State Lawmakers for pledging substantial investments in local transportation infrastructure projects.
"Counties and local governments have been struggling to fund certain road, bridge, and culvert maintenance and construction projects since the start of the great recession in 2008. The money has just not been there, and our roads are showing their wear," said Saratoga County Supervisor Jean Raymond, chairwoman of NYSAC's transportation standing committee. "The infusion of this funding will go a long way to building a stronger infrastructure in all of our communities."
In addition to an increase in CHIPs funding (to $440 million) and flat funding for the Marchiselli program ($39.7 million to help match Federal aid projects), state leaders created two new programs devoted transportation infrastructure.
The Pave NY/Bridge NY program will receive $800 million over the next four years for local roads and bridges. This includes $400 million ($100 million per year) for local projects distributed based on the CHIPS formula and $400 million for local bridge projects that will incorporate local solicitation.
"This is an area of true need for counties and all local governments. By dedicating an allocation directly to local governments, and requiring local input in other areas of road and bridge investment, these new programs will incorporate the needs of the community with the new investment by the state. I commend the State legislature and Governor Cuomo for providing this important state investment," said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen J. Acquario.
Airports
The enacted budget also includes a new $200 million grant program designed to improve airports throughout Upstate New York, and promote new opportunities for economic development and partnership between the public and private sectors. Grants will fund projects that enhance safety, improve operations and access, reduce environmental impact, and create better passenger experiences.
###