The $7.8 million in funding for repairs to the canal lift bridges in Brockport on Route 19 near Clinton Street and in Albion near Bank Street was announced Monday by state Sen. Rob Ortt. Work is expected to start in 2018. In addition, the state will install sensors on weight restricted canal lift bridges to monitor the structural integrity and to better assess appropriate corrective measures.
“For years, our local roads and bridges have been dangerously underfunded by the state,” said Senator Ortt. “For the first time in more than a decade, the Legislature has achieved true parity in transportation funding between upstate and downstate – the DOT and the MTA – with $27.1 billion for each entity over a five-year period. My district alone has more than 40 lift bridges over the canal, many of which that have been neglected by the state for far too long. I’ve fought for additional infrastructure funding to prevent irreversible closure of several deteriorating bridges. This money is a good start to help fix the structural problems in our region. The infrastructure improvements to the two canal lift bridges will contribute to economic growth while maintaining the safety of the individuals who use them, including our farmers and emergency personnel. We need reliable infrastructure to stimulate the economy, create jobs and protect future generations.”
Other DOT Capital Plan projects consist of improvements to state thoroughfares, bridges, trails and sidewalks and other modes of transportation, including transit systems, rail freight and aviation capital projects. $1.65 million will go toward the revitalization of the Niagara Gorge bicycle and pedestrian trail. A complete list of projects can be found here. The DOT Capital Plan is for the state fiscal year 2015-16 through 2019-20.
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