Assemblyman John Lemondes (R,C–LaFayette) attended a bipartisan press conference earlier today calling for greater state investment in local roads, bridges and culverts. Lemondes was joined by colleagues from both the state Senate and Assembly. The group emphasized that local roads and bridges must serve as the foundation of any statewide infrastructure plan moving forward.

Local roads and bridges make up roughly 87% of New York’s road mileage and more than half of its bridges. In addition, 48% of all vehicle miles traveled in the state occur on local roads. Despite this heavy use, less than 12% of the taxes and fees paid to the state by drivers are directed toward maintaining these roadways.

Because of this imbalance, Lemondes and his colleagues are calling on state lawmakers to increase funding for the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) by $250 million, bringing the total to $898 million annually. The proposal aims to help local governments maintain and improve transportation infrastructure across the state.

Lemondes said the increased funding would improve road conditions for residents across Central New York while ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively.

“Every day, millions of New Yorkers drive on roads that are poorly maintained and underfunded, yet Albany continues to drag its feet,” said Lemondes. “Local and state officials from both sides of the aisle have been calling for increased investment in our roads and bridges for years. Well-maintained roads should not be a luxury. They should be the standard. It is time for Albany to step up and give local communities the resources they need to keep our roadways safe and accessible.”