New York state has set aside $70 million
to fund 68 bicycle, pedestrian and multi-use
path transportation projects in New York,
including one in Glens Falls.
The projects, funded by the Federal Highway
Administration, which leverage a total
investment of $103.7 million, will promote
walking and biking, and boost tourism and
economic development opportunities in dozens
of communities across the state.
The project in the city of Glens Falls
includes Fire Road, Crandall Park and
Kensington Road Elementary School bicycle
and pedestrian improvements in the amount
of $480,000.
“These projects will help communities
become more walkable and bicycle friendly,
as well as show off the natural beauty that
exists in every corner of this state,” Gov.
Andrew Cuomo said. “I thank the Federal
Highway Administration and our representatives
for helping the state secure this funding
so that residents and visitors alike can enjoy
New York like never before.”
The projects include the addition of accessible
sidewalks, improved pedestrian access
to public transportation services, construction
of new bicycle and pedestrian facilities
and the preservation and conversion of
abandoned railroad corridors for trail use.
State Department of Transportation
Commissioner Joan McDonald said, “We are
investing in projects that meet the increasing
public demand for walkable and bikeable
communities, while promoting sustainable
transportation alternatives, tourism and
recreation, and local and regional economic
development. Governor Cuomo has shown a
historic commitment to investing in transportation
infrastructure in New York State,
including making bicycle and pedestrian
safety a priority.”
The funds are made available to the
State through the Federal Highway Administration
and are administered by the State
Department of Transportation. The program
provides up to 80 percent of the cost of each
project, with the remaining share coming
from the project sponsor. The funds are dedicated
for strategic investments in transportation
alternatives and with a local sponsor
match of more than $33.6 million, support
a total investment of nearly $103.7 million.
The projects announced were chosen
through a competitive solicitation process
and rated on established criteria that
included public benefit and community
support for the project; connectivity to an
existing transportation system; how well
the proposed improvements benefit walking
and bicycling; impact on local or regional
economies; availability of matching funds;
and ability to deliver the project within federally
required time frames. 135 applications
were received.
Selected projects relate to one or more
of the following categories: on-road and
off-road trail facilities for pedestrians,
bicyclists and other non-motorized forms
of transportation; infrastructure-related
projects and systems that provide safe routes
for non-drivers to access daily needs; use of
abandoned railroad corridors for surface transportation
related trails; scenic byway
turnouts and viewing areas; safe routes to
school; construction of boulevards and complete
streets thoroughfares; and storm water
management related to highway runoff.