New York’s chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) recently released a sobering report about the condition of New York’s infrastructure. Overall, New York received an embarrassing “C-” grade in the report. Our bridges, roads and wastewater systems received a “D,” while dams received a “C-.” Sound infrastructure is critical to economic growth and the safety of state residents. The state has allowed our infrastructure to deteriorate, and this is unconscionable.

More than half of the bridges in the state are 75 years old or more, with over 100 closed altogether due to safety. The report found that of the crumbling bridges in New York, less than 10 percent have been scheduled for repair over the next two years. As I’ve reported in previous columns, there are at least 30 bridges and spans closed in my district with 11 in one county alone.

About 45 percent of the state’s major roadways are in poor to fair condition, costing New York’s motorists nearly $5 billion in vehicle repairs and other related costs. Town municipalities own 60 percent of the state’s highways, and, as you may know, I’ve been fighting vigorously in Albany to increase the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPs). This fund is critical in assisting our local municipal highway superintendents to maintain our roads. More investment is needed.

In this state, there are more than 7,000 dams used for various reasons, including flood management. Of those, 400 have been classified as “high hazard” structures, meaning they would create serious damage to homes, businesses, roadways and communities and could threaten lives should they ever fail. Fortunately, many have emergency action plans.

Considering that New York has been facing unusual weather incidents like tropical storms, and with the potential for Joaquin to hit our state, bringing heavy rains and strong winds to the Mohawk Valley and North Country, the discussion about dams and other rainwater infrastructure must take place. The report estimated it would cost only $152 million to repair deficiencies in high-hazard dam structures, a drop in the bucket compared to the $8 billion being spent on the Tappan Zee Bridge, for which a financial plan still has not been released, and LaGuardia Airport projects.

Our local municipal governments are struggling to keep up with the great demands on our infrastructure, and they need help from the state. This can no longer be ignored. There is immense waste in state spending — the governor and Legislature must prioritize the overhaul of our deficient infrastructure and invest in these areas rather than in pet projects.

I welcome your input on this or any other legislative topic. Please contact me by emailing blankenbushk@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling 493-3909.