TOMPKINS COUNTY, N.Y. – Gov. Andrew Cuomo will send $128 million to localities across the state to repair roadways damaged by winter weather. About $15.8 million will go toward repaving projects in the Southern Tier, including just under $1 million to resurface a stretch of Rt. 366 in Tompkins County.
The funds come on top of $100 million previously committed to statewide pavement repairs through the PAVE NY Initiative. The additional investment is a response to harsh winter conditions and will support projects beginning this spring.
“A thriving transportation network is critical to supporting New York’s regional economic growth and local economies,” Cuomo said in a news release. “While New York continues its nation-leading investments in transportation infrastructure, harsh winter weather is the new normal and it impacts thousands of lane miles each year. This funding will help rejuvenate dozens of roads across New York and make traveling smoother while supporting local economies.”
About 113 miles of Southern Tier roadways are slated for resurfacing, including a three-mile stretch of Rt. 366 from Rt. 13 to the Freeville line.
Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul said repairs will enhance the quality of life for New Yorkers. “This significant funding will help communities repave roads impacted by the weather to ensure safe and efficient travel,” she said.
Projects funded through the initiative are under the purview of the state Department of Transportation. Statewide, DOT will tackle potholes and other damage along about 4,700 miles of state routes.
The City of Ithaca has also committed to investing in its road infrastructure this year, with about $450,000 budgeted toward adding a streets crew within the Department of Public Works. The 2019 budget anticipated a March start for the new hires, so additional road work should be underway during the spring.