Long Island’s transit funding is slashed to 7.8%, angering local leaders who feel shortchanged ahead of the governor’s address.
This cut comes right before Governor Kathy Hochul’s State of the State address. Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine pointed out that Suffolk has the most registered vehicles and drivers in the state. He’s confused about why Long Island is getting less funding now.
In the new budget, Buffalo and Western New York will get the biggest slice at 40.1%. New York City will take 13.6%, and the Hudson Valley will get 9.6%. The rest of upstate will share 28.9%.
A letter went out to local politicians urging them to fight back against this funding plan. The cuts come after Hochul’s congestion toll was introduced in New York City, which has also stirred up some controversy.
Marc Herbst, from the Long Island Contractors’ Association, mentioned that the roads are in bad shape. He noted that Long Island has seen a decline in infrastructure over the past six years.
The letter also supports a new plan called the 2025 People’s Budget Framework. This plan aims to boost funding for transportation and restore programs that help improve highways in Long Island and the Hudson Valley.
Romaine emphasized that investing in infrastructure is key to making Long Island an economic powerhouse. He believes that better roads and facilities will enhance productivity across the board.
