In December 2022, New York state legislature increased funding for the Complete Streets Act by 7%. Now, Governor Hochul is proposing $5 million in new funding for the program in her executive budget. The Complete Streets Act aims to provide safe access to public roads for all users, including pedestrians and bicyclists.
However, some lawmakers feel that the governor’s transportation budget falls short of meeting the infrastructure needs in upstate counties. Assembly Member Phil Palmesano (R-Corning) says that while he supports the Complete Streets Program, the lack of infrastructure funding for local towns, villages, and counties will create problems for them to implement the program.
During a transportation budget hearing, the New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner stated that the governor’s funding will help develop projects and educate communities about Complete Streets. Diana Alati, who lost her son in a bike accident three years ago, believes that these programs are crucial for the safety of New York communities. She also added that while progress on funding for Complete Streets is positive, there is still more work to be done.
The Senate and the Assembly will draft their one-house budget resolutions after the budget hearing and then begin negotiations with the governor. The final budget plan is due on April 1st.
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