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 on June 23rd 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.
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 awarded to Central New York are available here.
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.
