Looking to enhance pedestrian and biker options, as well as facilitate access to the transportation system at large, New York State last week announced $178.8 million to benefit 75 communities for environmentally friendly transportation projects.
“As demonstrated through the recently adopted State Budget and our historic capital plan, New York continues to make unprecedented investments so we can build back stronger than ever before,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said. “We’re investing in strategic initiatives across the state to improve quality of life, promote economic growth, and revitalize our communities. Most importantly, by advancing mobility alternatives, these awards will provide new opportunities and remove barriers for individuals in Environmental Justice Communities that have traditionally lacked adequate transportation access.”
New sidewalks, shared use paths and other non-motorized modes of travel are all represented by the funding injection, and many – more than two-thirds – are located in Environmental Justice Communities. This means that most will help improve connectivity, air quality and access among predominantly low and moderate income areas. Funds cover up to 80 percent of total project costs for respective efforts, made available through the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) but administered by the New York State Department of Transportation.
The project selection process was a competitive one, and the winners will see awards combined with project sponsor contributions that leveraged nearly $550 million in extra investments.
“With a strong focus on sidewalks, recreational opportunities, and pedestrian and bike access, these projects support the increased public demand in the post COVID-19 environment for more walkable and bikeable communities,” Marie Therese Dominguez, New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner, said. “Investments like these will pave the way towards a future in line with the Governor’s vision, where our communities are more connected, our transportation networks are more accessible to everyone, and our carbon footprint is smaller.”
Funding was broken down by region, which included:
- Capital Region – $27.2 million
- Central New York – $14.1 million
- Finger Lakes – $23.7 million
- Long Island – $6.8 million
- Mid-Hudson – $38.8 million
- Mohawk Valley – $8.6 million
- New York City – $7.7 million
- North Country – $5.1 million
- Southern Tier – $8 million
- Western New York – $38.8 million