Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick) recently outlined his budget priorities as the Legislature delves deeper into negotiations. He said his main focus will be on restoring infrastructure parity between New York City and the rest of the state and providing funding that will act as a gateway to economic development and job creation on Long Island.

“Long Island’s infrastructure needs are paramount,” McDonough said. “We have dealt with serious natural disasters, two of the worst in history over the last couple of years, and our local roads and highways handle some of the highest volume of traffic in the state. While New York City receives billions to close budget deficits we are left fighting for scraps and that is an abomination. We need more than simple ‘maintenance’ projects. We deserve our fair share.”

Over 120 legislators gathered in Albany last week for a rally calling on Gov. Cuomo and legislative leaders to increase funding for the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS), which is the primary funding mechanism for local infrastructure maintenance. McDonough has joined their call and is fighting the governor on his proposal to include no increase in CHIPS funding in this year’s budget.

“One of the examples of our infrastructure deficiencies are Long Island routes littered with potholes,” McDonough said. “These routes ensure the safety of our families and businesses each day and provide jobs for groups like the Long Island Contractors’ Association (LICA) and local construction crews across the area. There are movements like Rebuild Upstate and supporting the NYC mass transit system, but where is the funding for Long Island? I am co-sponsor on multiple bills, A.8242 and A.3522 that would address the lack of parity between NYC and the rest of the state and allow for more infrastructure repair and maintenance.”

“I am joining the fight on behalf of our local contractors, highway departments and infrastructure repair crews and calling on the governor to increase CHIPS funding and give Long Island its fair share,” McDonough concluded.

The 2016-17 Enacted State Budget is due on April 1, 2016.