Senator Chuck Schumer has announced $25 million in federal funding for Olean’s West State Street revitalization project, marking a major step forward in improving safety, connectivity, and economic growth along one of Cattaraugus County’s busiest corridors.
The funding, secured through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) competitive Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program, will support 2.5 miles of improvements between North Union Street and St. Bonaventure University. These enhancements include dedicated two-way bike lanes, pedestrian-friendly bump-outs, roundabouts, crosswalks, ADA upgrades, and modernized water and sewer infrastructure.
Schumer, who played a key role in increasing RAISE funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, hailed the project as a “transportation transformation” for Olean.
“This project is not just about safety — it’s about connecting critical assets, from downtown to St. Bonaventure, and building out the infrastructure needed for a hub of economic activity and growth,” Schumer said.
West State Street is home to over 180 businesses and approximately 1,600 jobs. Advocates believe the upgrades will significantly enhance the area’s economic competitiveness, sustainability, and pedestrian safety. Some sections of the corridor date back to 1896 and 1917 and lack modern utilities, underscoring the need for these improvements.
Olean Mayor William Aiello thanked federal and state officials, including Schumer, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Congressman Nicholas Langworthy, and Governor Kathy Hochul, for their advocacy.
“I look forward to working with the Town of Allegany and St. Bonaventure University as we connect our communities,” Aiello said.
Local leaders and stakeholders also praised the project. Jeff Belt, President of SolEpoxy, highlighted Olean’s success with previous safety-oriented street makeovers, while landscape architect Molly Vendura noted the transformative potential for safety, walkability, and environmental sustainability.
The RAISE grant program, which received a $7.5 billion boost over five years from the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, aims to fund projects of national and regional significance.
With this investment, West State Street is set to become a model of modern infrastructure and community connectivity in Western New York.
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