SC New York News

State and local leaders in New York are urging the governor and state legislature to increase funding for local roads and bridges in the upcoming 2025-26 state budget. The call for action comes after joint Senate-Assembly hearings on the governor's proposed $252-billion budget concluded this week. Final budget negotiations are set to begin in March, with an approval deadline of April 1.

At a news conference held at the Town of Big Flats Highway Garage, State Senator Tom O’Mara, Assemblymen Phil Palmesano, Chris Friend, Joe Sempolinski, Elmira Mayor Dan Mandell, Hornell Mayor John Buckley, and other local leaders emphasized the need for increased state aid. They argued that current funding levels fail to account for inflation's impact on construction costs.

In a letter dated February 13, 2025, addressed to the governor and legislative leaders, O’Mara and his colleagues stated: “We once again stress that New York State's direct investment in local roads and bridges through CHIPS remains fundamental. It deserves priority consideration in the final allocation of state infrastructure investment in the budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year… A stronger state-local partnership is the only solution to meeting the critical investment level needed to maintain and improve local roads, bridges, and culverts.”

The legislators oppose Governor Hochul’s proposal to maintain last year’s funding level for CHIPS (Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program), which they say does not reflect rising construction costs. According to national data from the Federal Highway Administration’s Highway Construction Cost Index, highway construction costs have risen by 70% over three years.

Local governments outside New York City spent $2 billion on road maintenance in 2020. A study by NYSAOTSOH (New York State Association of Town Superintendents of Highways) indicated municipalities need an additional $32 billion over 15 years for road improvements due to increased material costs.

Elmira Mayor Dan Mandell remarked: “CHIPS funding is essential for the City of Elmira to maintain our roads... Without adequate funding, our roads will become dangerous.” Hornell Mayor John Buckley added: “If the State of NY can afford to spend billions more in 2025... it can surely increase current levels of funding.”

Matt Mustico from NYSAOTSOH highlighted infrastructure as crucial for economic growth and public safety: “Together with NYSCHSA our members are requesting... a $250 million increase to CHIPS.” Kelly Fitzpatrick from Steuben County Legislature stressed immediate support is necessary due to escalating construction costs.

Lee Giammichele from Big Flats noted CHIPS' importance: “CHIPS along with Pave NY... help offset our local highway budget.” Ken Thurston from Schuyler County emphasized reliance on flexible funding sources: "It is critical that an additional $250 Million be added."

The coalition behind these efforts has been active since 2013 under initiatives like "Local Roads Are Essential," aiming to strengthen commitments toward transportation infrastructure across New York State.