Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara (D-Rotterdam) announced that the Assembly budget passed today includes significant investments in upstate transportation infrastructure in the form of $25 million for upstate transit systems like CDTA and $40 million for winter weather recovery (E.203).

“Investments in infrastructure are a down payment on a better economy,” Assemblyman Santabarbara said. “Hardworking families rely on our transit systems every day and ensuring that they are funded at higher levels so people can continue to receive quality service is one of my top priorities. Further, funding repairs and maintenance for our transportation systems helps create jobs.”

The Assembly budget proposal increases funding for upstate transit systems by $25 million for a total of $204 million and establishes a board to make recommendations to ensure growth and fiscal stability among these systems. Additionally, the proposal maintains the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPs) and the Marchiselli Highway Improvement Program and sets forth an additional $40 million for extreme weather recovery across upstate New York. Assemblyman Santabarbara noted that both initiatives received funding in the state Senate’s proposed budget.

“Damage from this year’s extreme winter weather is not only a nuisance but a public safety hazard. This funding will ease the burden on local governments and property taxpayers keep our roads safe and commerce moving,” Assemblyman Santabarbara said.