$5.6 Million Awarded For LI Bike, Pedestrian Facilities: Cuomo

SOUTHAMPTON, NY — New York State has awarded $144.6 million for projects that support bicycle and pedestrian enhancements and improve air quality statewide — with $5.6 million to benefit three key proposals on Long Island.

The plans support the state's "Health Across All Policies" initiative; the new infrastructure investment will facilitate the construction of new multi-use bicycle and pedestrian facilities, new ADA accessible sidewalks, and improved access to public transportation and enhanced roadway safety, Cuomo said.

"Health Across All Policies" is a collaborative approach that integrates health considerations into policymaking across all sectors to improve community wellness, Cuomo said.

"New York State is making historic, nation-leading investments in cleaner and more sustainable transportation infrastructure which is crucial to the growth of local economies," Cuomo said. "These investments in bike and pedestrian enhancements across the state will help revitalize communities, reduce our carbon footprint and demonstrate once again that New York is building for the future."

Statewide, the projects will spur additional investment of more than $215 million, including public and private support, in local enhancements that will revitalize communities, promote tourism and enhance regional economic competitiveness, Cuomo said.

The projects announced Wednesday were selected through a competitive solicitation process; those competing for the funds presented plans that will increase options for non-vehicular transportation, reduce vehicle emissions or traffic congestion, or both. The funding, which will provide up to 80% of the cost of each project, is garnered through the Federal Highway Administration and administered directly by the New York State Department of Transportation, Cuomo said.

Projects awarded funds include Southampton Town's plans to construct a new bicycle and multi-use trail in Hamptons Bays; that project was awarded $756,000.

The Town of Brookhaven was awarded $1.8 million to construct new pedestrian accessibility enhancements along North Country Road near the Miller Avenue School in Shoreham.

And $3 million was awarded to Nassau County to construct the eastern most segment of the Motor Parkway Trail.

New York State Department of Transportation Chief of Staff Todd B. Westhuis applauded the funding: "Smart investments in all transportation sectors by Governor Cuomo are helping to spur economic growth in local communities across New York State. People want more access to pedestrian and bicycle-friendly accommodations in their communities, and these grants will encourage healthy living and create new opportunities for these popular modes of transportation, while improving air quality and quality of life."