New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo unveiled plans Jan. 6 for what he called largest capital program in the state's history, to upgrade transportation infrastructure.
Cuomo said his $22 billion multi-year capital plan will improve critical roads and bridges throughout New York and especially Upstate. The initiative would include $1 billion to replace and rehabilitate at least 200 state and local bridges and another $1 billion for paving 1,300 miles of roads. An additional $500 million would be allocated for an Extreme Weather Infrastructure Hardening program that addresses roadways susceptible to flooding.
"We are going to move forward with the largest capital plan in state history," said Cuomo in a statement. "Together we can support and rebuild our vital infrastructure and unlock the potential of Upstate New York for years to come."
Cuomo will detail further programs for his $22 billion capital plan during his State of the State and budget presentation Jan. 13.
The Democratic governor also announced Wednesday a proposal to keep tolls on the New York State Thruway flat until at least 2020 and reduce rates in half for roughly 1 million frequent travelers of the roadway. He said the toll reduction plan is made possible thanks to $700 million being invested on the Thruway this year on top of a $1.3 billion commitment in 2015.
