WASHINGTON D.C. – Funding of $15 million has been secured for repairs to Harlem Road Bridge located on Route 240 in Erie County. The funding — sought by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand — was allocated through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to make necessary improvements for bridges in high-risk flood areas.

“It is not enough to simply rebuild and repair after a significant flood; we must also prepare ourselves for the next storm and the next potential flood,” said Sen. Schumer. “These much-needed federal funds will help the West Seneca community complete major upgrades on its currently flood-prone Harlem Road Bridge in order to make it more resilient in the face of future storms. Spending a penny today on flood-prevention efforts could save the federal government and local homeowners a dollar tomorrow in repair costs.”

“This is a major investment that will help strengthen critical transportation infrastructure here in West Seneca and around New York,” said Sen. Gillibrand. “Our bridges are heavily traveled and we need to modernize and upgrade them. These FEMA funds help safeguard our bridges against flooding and allow for critical repairs to keep commuters and communities safe. This comprehensive project will help replace eroded and decaying bridges to keep drivers safe while taking the tax burden off of local families.”

“Improvements to the infrastructure will always have a positive return to any community. The Town of West Seneca is appreciative that funding has been dedicated to the Harlem Road Bridge,” said Supervisor Sheila M. Meegan.