As winter sets in, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced $100 million to repave highways and improve pavement resiliency across New York State, with a significant portion directed at the Finger Lakes and Central New York regions. The initiative, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Act, targets highways battered by seasonal freeze-thaw cycles and extreme weather.
A combined total of $24.3 million will benefit road projects across the region. The improvements are part of a broader effort to ensure state infrastructure remains durable and reliable, enhancing safety and economic viability for these communities.
“These investments take direct aim at rejuvenating some of the state highways most impacted by extreme weather,” Hochul said in the announcement. “Keeping our infrastructure in a state of good repair is a sound investment that not only increases resiliency but spurs economic development and tourism across New York.”
Key projects in Finger Lakes and Central New York
Cayuga County will receive $2.1 million to resurface Route 5&20 from the Seneca County line to Route 326 in the Town of Aurelius. This highway is a major artery connecting regional commerce and local communities, and the upgrade aims to improve safety and travel efficiency.
In Seneca County, $1.5 million is allocated to resurface Route 96 from Route 366 to the Village of Waterloo in the Town of Fayette. This route supports both local traffic and visitors to nearby attractions, including the Finger Lakes wine trail.
A major roadway that connects Monroe, Wayne, and Cayuga counties will see improvements with $1.6 million to resurface Route 104. This project covers the stretch from the Cayuga County line to Route 104A, impacting the Town of Oswego and the Town and Village of Hannibal.
Enhancing safety and efficiency
The investment comes as regional leaders stress the importance of maintaining infrastructure amidst unpredictable weather patterns.
State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez highlighted the urgency: “Targeted infrastructure investments enhance public safety and the resiliency of New York’s vast network of roads and bridges. These projects will help communities better handle extreme weather events while improving efficiency for Department staff responding to snow and ice conditions.”
Roadways under strain
The Finger Lakes and Central New York regions experience severe winter storms and fluctuating temperatures, which take a toll on road surfaces. The freeze-thaw cycle leads to potholes and deteriorating pavement, making travel hazardous and costly to maintain.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer praised the initiative: “$10 million from our Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law is literally paving the way for improved safety and good-paying jobs repairing cracks and modernizing highways across New York.”
In addition to improving safety, smoother roadways are expected to reduce wear and tear on vehicles and facilitate more efficient snow removal operations.
Regional economic impact
These investments signal improved accessibility for both residents and businesses. Resilient roadways are essential for the movement of goods and services, particularly in areas dependent on agriculture and tourism.
Supporters say the funding package ensures that Finger Lakes communities remain connected and resilient in the face of climate challenges.
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