ALBANY – Chautauqua County will receive money from state and federal programs to support and enhance rural transportation within the county.
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced $57.7 million in state and federal funding for 136 rural public transportation projects statewide.
According the Cuomo’s release, Chautauqua County will receive $822,000 in operating assistance, $851,000 to replace twelve transit buses, $138,000 for communications and technology equipment, and $132,000 for projects that support mobility in Chautauqua County.
“Transportation infrastructure is the lifeblood of our economy and the key to future growth,” Cuomo said. “This funding will bolster upstate mobility operations and help ensure that all New Yorkers, regardless of their location, will have a transportation infrastructure they can rely on.”
The funding will be administered by the New York State Department of Transportation and supported through grants from the Federal Transit Administration. In all, funds will be awarded to 51 program participants including, 39 municipalities, three transportation authorities, one tribal nation, and eight intercity bus operators serving rural areas throughout the state. Collectively, these services support more than five million passenger trips annually and provide a vital role in the rejuvenation of the state’s upstate towns and villages.
Recipients of this funding will receive $34.3 million for vehicle replacement and infrastructure renewal projects and $23.4 million to support service operations. This $57.7 million in new state and federal investments will leverage nearly $85 million in rural transportation improvements across the state.
The capital funds awarded under this initiative will accelerate the deployment of 162 new clean-fuel ADA accessible vehicles, replacing and modernizing approximately 19 percent of the total rural transit fleet. In addition, this funding will support vehicle maintenance and storage facility rehabilitation and modernization; enhanced passenger amenities such as shelters, communication systems and security; and provide mobility management services.