A full 1,200 highway miles in New York state will benefit from $206 million in federal and state funds announced last week, meant to improve infrastructure and freight operations, reduce congestion and cut costs.
New York currently expects a 50 percent growth in freight tonnage transported through the state by 2040 and is moving to meet demand. Another $1.5 billion has already gone to highway freight-related enhancement projects in New York. All targeted areas are a part of the National Highway Freight Network and have been targeted for enhancement under the Statewide Freight Plan.
“The efficient movement of commerce is critical to the economic competitiveness of our state,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “By investing in these critical projects, we are continuing to support more than three million freight-related jobs and the global shipment of goods produced and manufactured in every region of the State.”
Some of the projects that stand to benefit are the replacement of the Kosciuszko Bridge spans, construction of a new Albany Airport connector road, geometrics improvements on Route 112 and reconstruction of the Interstate 390/400 interchange. By repairing and updating these areas, the Statewide Freight Plan calculates that idling will be reduced, greenhouse gas emissions cut and a framework for future improvements established.
“Through these unprecedented investments in enhancing the freight network, Governor Cuomo is reaffirming his commitment to ensuring the economic viability of New York and improving the competitiveness of businesses statewide,” Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said. “The projects announced today will also enhance safety and support New York’s leadership in deploying strategies that mitigate congestion and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”