Governor Hochul Announces $178.8 Million in Funding to Support Transportation Enhancements in 75 Communities Across New York

Supports Construction of New Accessible Sidewalks and Shared Use Paths, Enhances Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety, and Facilitates Access to the Transportation System for Users of All Ages and Abilities

Projects Advance New York State's Nation-Leading Climate Goals

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $178.8 million has been awarded to 75 communities across New York State for projects that promote environmentally friendly modes of travel and make it easier and safer to walk, bike or hike. The funding will improve access to the transportation system for all users and advance New York State's nation-leading agenda to fight climate change by supporting the construction of new sidewalks, shared use paths and other enhancements that facilitate the use of non-motorized modes of travel and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. More than two-thirds of the projects awarded will benefit Environmental Justice Communities, thereby helping to improve connectivity, air quality and bicycle and pedestrian access for the predominantly low-and-moderate-income families living in those areas.

"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," Governor 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 York is committed to moving projects like this forward that will not only help lower emissions using transportation alternatives, but will also mitigate traffic congestion and help improve connectivity, air quality and access for predominantly low-and-moderate-income families," said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado. "This funding is a win for all regions across New York State, and it is another example of our commitment to making smart investments today that will benefit New Yorkers for generations to come."

The funding, which provides up to 80 percent of total project costs, is made available through the Federal Highway Administration and administered by the New York State Department of Transportation. Projects were selected through a competitive solicitation process that required awardees to demonstrate how proposed activities would contribute to increasing the use of non-vehicular transportation alternatives, reduce vehicle emissions and/or mitigate traffic congestion. Combined with project sponsor contributions, these awards will leverage nearly $550 million in additional community investments.

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, "Governor Kathy Hochul is unwavering in her commitment to improving the lives of all New Yorkers, with targeted investments in every region of the state to promote all possible modes of transportation. 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. 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."

NYSERDA President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, "In our work to achieve New York's Climate Act goals, it's imperative that we are able to ensure residents, especially those in underserved areas, have options to walk, bike or use other modes of emissions-free transportation to safely go to work and access community amenities and resources. Building out and improving shared use and bike paths helps reduce harmful emissions from communities across the state and fosters a high quality of life for all New Yorkers through fresher air, and cleaner, greener environments."

Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos said, "I applaud Governor Kathy Hochul's steadfast commitment to building stronger more resilient and sustainable communities. This significant investment, impacting 75 communities, is another strategic step in that process that supports more environmentally friendly modes of transportation that gets more people outdoors walking and biking to reduce our carbon footprints. Additionally, these funds directly improve the quality of life of people living in disadvantaged communities that are often forgetting when it comes to community transportation and revitalization.

Senator Chuck Schumer said, "Get ready New York because thanks to the federal dollars I delivered through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law we are about to have a bike boom! This funding means better bike lines in Syracuse, more trails in gorges Ithaca, greater walkability for towns across the Finger Lakes, and so much more. I am proud to have paved the ways for these tremendous investments in greenways and expanded transportation to keep Upstate New York rolling to a cleaner, healthier, and more accessible future."

Representative Brian Higgins said, "Projects like the one along Niagara Falls Boulevard in Amherst will improve safety, investments in the Tonawandas will continue the buildout and connectivity of recreational trails, and funding for electric buses will support cleaner and healthier neighborhoods. Altogether, this nearly $39 million investment in Western New York helps to build stronger communities and improve the quality of life for residents."

Representative Paul Tonko said, "Investments in pedestrian and bike infrastructure are vital in connecting people to their jobs, schools, and their community as a whole. These transportation enhancements in the Capital Region will help us meet critical climate goals and give us the opportunity to make our region healthier, safer, and more resilient. I'm thankful for the Governor's work supporting strong transportation improvements. I will continue to drive federal investments that grow our clean economy and advance a better future for us all."

Representative Kathleen Rice said, "I am thrilled that communities in our district have secured this funding to improve transportation. Funding these projects will not only improve street safety and the lives of commuters, but will help to reduce the overall carbon footprint on Long Island. Thank you to Governor Hochul for making Long Island a more walkable and accessible place to live."

Representative Joe Morelle said, "As we work to strengthen our local infrastructure, it is critical to prioritize projects that support multi-modal transportation options. These investments will help accommodate the needs of commuters while preserving our environment. I am proud to have helped secure this funding and will continue advocating for strategies to create safer and more environmentally sustainable communities."

Representative Jamaal Bowman said, "I am proud to join Governor Hochul today to announce these funds for critical transportation improvements in our parks and public spaces. In New York's 16th Congressional District the City of New York, Hastings on Hudson and the Village of Mamaroneck will all benefit from these improvements to make public spaces more accessible while easing traffic congestion. I look forward to seeing these projects under way and supporting more transportation efforts that will also benefit our communities."

State Senator Tim Kennedy, Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, said, "As we continue to improve New York's infrastructure, it's imperative that we're making strategic investments in complete street concepts that prioritize all roadway users and ensure safety and accessibility. This dedicated funding will continue to advance New York's progressive transportation and environmental agendas, and ultimately foster sustainable, innovative communities."

Assemblymember William B. Magnarelli, Chair of State Assembly Transportation Committee, said, "Investing in walking, biking and hiking trails reinforces New York State's commitment to our communities. New York continues to lead the nation by offering access to these transportation alternatives, which encourage exercise and environmentally friendly options."

About New York State's Nation-Leading Climate Act

In July 2019, New York passed the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (Climate Act), which represents the most ambitious and comprehensive climate and clean energy legislation in the country. The Climate Act's nation-leading climate and energy goals set the stage for a sweeping set of measures to reduce our carbon footprint and improve the resiliency of communities across New York. It will provide opportunities for residents and communities alike to partner with businesses, schools, and government to create a green economy and build a more sustainable future.

A full list of projects by region is available here.

Capital Region - $27.2 million

$1,569,539 to the Town of Bethlehem to construct a paved multi-use path along Cherry Avenue Extension.
$1,781,000 to the Town of Clifton Park to enhance pedestrian and bike facilities along Main Street.
$4,565,356 to the City of Cohoes to construct nearly three miles of sidewalks, bike lanes and other enhancements to facilitate a pedestrian friendly environment including Safe Routes to School.
$1,496,560 to the Town of Glenville to construct sidewalks along Freemans Bridge Road.
$910,466 to the Town of Guilderland to construct sidewalks to provide pedestrian safety improvements along East Old State Road.
$1,864,348 to the Village of Kinderhook to construct pedestrian and bicycle improvements along Albany Avenue.
$2,456,764 to the Village of Nassau to construct intersection and pedestrian upgrades throughout the Village.
$713,526 to the Town of Sand Lake to construct approximately of sidewalks along Reichard's Lake Road to connect Sand Lake Beach Sidewalk.
$1,497,984 to Saratoga County to construct a connection to Zim Smith Trail - Northern Trail Extension from the Town of Ballston to Town of Milton.
$1,014,400 to the Village of Voorheesville to construct and replace sidewalks, curbing, and crosswalks.
$4,896,000 to the Capital District Transportation Authority to expand bus service along the Washington-Western Corridor.
$2,078,926 to the City of Schenectady to provide improvements to the Craig Street Pedestrian Bridge.
$2,362,592 to the Town of Wilton to construct traffic safety and pedestrian connectivity improvements.

Central New York - $ 14.1 million

$1,246,560 to the Village of North Syracuse to construct sidewalks and crosswalks throughout the Village.
$2,096,000 to the Village of Solvay to construct Pedestrian Enhancements to Cogswell Avenue.
$1,537,828 to the City of Syracuse to replace the Kirk Park Pedestrian Bridge over the Onondaga Creek and provide a connector to Creekwalk.
$3,574,400 to the City of Syracuse to construct pedestrian and bike improvements to Erie Boulevard West.
$717,630 to the Town of Lenox to construct a trail connecting to the Lenox to Canastota Wampsville Rail Trail.
$500,000 to the Village of Phoenix to reconstruct sidewalks and install ADA compliant crosswalks to connect the Phoenix Central School District to the Village's Canal Waterfront District.
$4,426,450 to Onondaga County to construct pedestrian and safety improvements along Teall Avenue.

Finger Lakes - $23.7 million

$944,934 to the City of Batavia to construct traffic calming, bike lanes, and sidewalks along Bank and Alva Street.
$1,207,336 to the Village of Brockport to construct sidewalks, pedestrian path, crosswalks and other pedestrian and bicyclist safety improvements at the Smith Street Bridge.
$4,004,800 to the Village of Fairport to construct sidewalks and bicycle and pedestrian enhancements to Main Street.
$1,771,200 to the Town of Farmington to construct sidewalk and trail connections throughout the Community Center Area of Town.
$1,657,600 to Ontario County to construct sidewalk, a pedestrian bridge and a pedestrian and bike path along Route 364 from Lakeshore Drive to Marvin Sands Drive.
$583,384 to the Town of Perinton to construct a trail from Spring Lake Park to Channing Philbrick Park.
$540,000 to the Town of Pittsford to construct a sidewalk and crosswalk improvements in the vicinity of Thornell Farm Park and Pitsford Mendon High School.
$576,400 to Rochester-Genesee Regional Authority to install new bus shelters and post seating in Monroe and Orleans County.
$1,828,147 to the Town of Seneca Falls to construct sidewalks, improve crosswalks and signage in the proximity to Mynderse Academy High School for Safe Routes to School.
$1,518,053 to the Village of East Rochester to construct sidewalks, curbs, and crosswalks in the area of the East Rochester K-8 and High School.
$1,094,196 to the Village of Medina to construct a multi-use path for pedestrians and bicyclist along the Maple Ridge Road Corridor.
$5,000,000 to the Rochester-Genesee Regional Authority for the purchase of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Buses and Fueling System to service Western New York.
$3,000,000 to the City of Rochester to convert an abandoned railroad bridge over Genesee River to a multi-use trail for pedestrian and bicyclists.

Long Island - $6.8 million

$5,000,000 to Nassau County to construct sidewalks and traffic calming improvements to the Lido Boulevard corridor.
$1,774,714 to the Village of Valley Stream to construct approximately a multi-use path to link to existing paths to the Long Island Rail Road.

Mid-Hudson - $38.8 million

$3,045,266 to the Village of Briarcliff Manor to construct sidewalks, traffic calming measures, and pedestrian crossing along Pleasantville Road, North State Road and Delton Lane.
$3,617,424 to the Town of Cortlandt to construct sidewalks, bike lanes and streetscape improvements along Westbrook Drive.
$2,781,317 to the Town of Crawford to construct sidewalk, curbing, ramps and crosswalks to North Street.
$5,000,000 to the Town of Greenburgh to construct sidewalk and pedestrian crossing enhancements and improvements to the East-West Hartsdale Avenue Corridor.
$785,395 to the Village of Hastings on Hudson to construct sidewalk, curbs, and a pedestrian bridge adjacent to Broadway (Route 9).
$1,085,800 to the Town of Hyde Park to construct sidewalks and pedestrian lighting on Historic Main Street.
$3,999,420 to the Village of Mamaroneck to construct sidewalk, curbs, traffic calming measures, pedestrian crossing along Halstead Avenue.
$958,272 to the City of New Rochelle to construct ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps, pedestrian signals, and push buttons at various locations.
$3,960,000 to Ulster County to convert 2.5-mile Ulster and Delaware Railroad to a multi-use trail and pedestrian bridges from Highmount to Belleayre Beach DUA in the Town of Shandaken.
$1,797,112 to the Village of Wesley Hills to construct ADA-compliant sidewalks on Willow Tree Road.
$5,000,000 to the Village of East Fishkill to construct off-set roundabouts at Route 82/Route 376.
$5,000,000 to the Mid-Hudson Region to construct a roundabout at Raymond Avenue, New Hackensack Road, and Hooker Avenue in the City of Poughkeepsie.
$1,793,520 to the Town of East Fishkill for intersection and pedestrian improvements on Route 52 within the proximity of John Jay High School.

Mohawk Valley - $8.6 million

$5,000,000 to the City of Oneonta to construct sidewalks and shoulder for pedestrians and bicycles along Routes 23 and 28.
$3,576,000 to the City of Rome to extend the Mohawk River Trail north from Wright-Settlement Road to Golf Course Road.

New York City - $7.7 million

$2,763,904 to the City of New York to construct a two-way, grade-separated greenway path along Flatlands Ave.
$5,000,000 to the City of New York to construct pedestrian and bikeway improvements along Delancey Street.

North Country - $5.1 million

$2,348,320 to Clinton County to construct sidewalks, curb, ADA-ramps, and bicycle lane improvements to the Military Turnpike Corridor in the Town of Plattsburgh.
$1,084,000 to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) to construct a multi-use pedestrian bridge at the South Inlet parallel to Route 28.
$1,663,764 to the City of Watertown to construct sidewalks and multi-use trail to the western section of the Black River Trail.

Southern Tier - $8.0 million

$2,200,000 to the City of Ithaca to construct a multi-use trail to the Black Diamond Trail to the Gateway Trail.
$571,263 to the Village of Montour Falls to construct street stormwater improvements to Owego Street.
$671,954 to the Village of Painted Post to construct sidewalks, a pedestrian walkway, and other pedestrian safety improvements to the Village Walking Trail.
$2,344,703 to the Town of Vestal to construct a multi-use trail along Vestal Road.
$2,191,838 to the Village of Cayuga Heights to construct sidewalks along Cayuga Heights Road.

Western New York - $38.8 million

$1,490,400 to the Town of Amherst to construct sidewalk and bicycle lane improvements to Carey Road from Paradise Park to Transit Road.
$2,985,600 to the City of Buffalo for rehabilitation to the Scajaquada Trail from Main Street to Fillmore Avenue.
$791,680 to the City of Buffalo for the continuation of the Forest Avenue Multi-Use Pathway.
$2,354,887 to the Town of Evans for the construction of a segment of the Shoreline Trail along Lake Shore Road.
$3,861,362 to Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority to construct bus stop canopies and pedestrian/bicycle infrastructure improvements along North Division Street in the City of Buffalo.
$1,396,807 to the City of Olean to construct a shared use path along Olean Wayne Street.
$1,600,000 to the Town of Orchard Park to construct approximately sidewalks and pedestrian crosswalks to improve safe routes to schools.
$5,000,000 to NYS Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation to construct four pedestrian bridges in Genesee Valley Greenway State Park in Allegany County.
$1,696,000 to the Town of Tonawanda to construct a Riverwalk multi-use pedestrian trial connecting River Road to Two Mile Creek Road.
$5,000,000 to the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority for the purchase of Battery Electric Buses (BEB)to serve populations across Western New York.
$1,050,000 to the City of North Tonawanda to construct an extension to the Erie Canal Bike Path between Mayor's Park and North Tonawanda Botanical Gardens.
$3,448,028 to the Town of Clarence to construct sidewalk and pedestrian improvements from Main Street to Transit Road.
$802,707 to the Village of Williamsville to construct sidewalk and curb ramps along Main Street.
$5,000,000 to the Western New York Region to construct a diverging diamond interchange at the I-190 and Niagara Falls Boulevard intersections.
$2,368,000 to the Western New York Region to construct a new through lane, approaches, traffic signal and pedestrian crossing at Route 33-Genesee Street at Harris Hill Intersection in the Town of Lancaster, Erie County.