New York’s roads and bridges are falling into disrepair, and state lawmakers are sounding the alarm over the lack of investment needed to fix them.
Assembly Minority Leader Will Barclay is urging Gov. Kathy Hochul and legislative leaders to prioritize infrastructure funding, warning that deteriorating roads are not only a safety hazard but also a barrier to economic growth. Barclay pointed to a national report ranking New York’s infrastructure 45th in the country, citing poor pavement conditions, congestion delays, and excessive administrative costs.
A key concern is the state’s Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS), which helps fund road maintenance in cities and towns. Despite rising construction costs, Gov. Hochul’s latest budget keeps CHIPS funding flat, a move Barclay says fails to address the worsening conditions. Republican lawmakers are calling for a $250 million increase, bringing the total to $848 million. They also want reforms to streamline road funding programs and give local governments more flexibility in project bidding.
The governor has proposed an $800 million increase for the state Department of Transportation’s CORE Road and Bridge Program, but Barclay argues that the state needs a much larger commitment. Without it, he warns, New York will struggle to compete as a top destination for business and tourism.
Lawmakers continue to push for increased infrastructure investment as budget negotiations unfold. The outcome could have major implications for the state’s roads, economy, and future development.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].