New York announces $200 million to rehab and replace bridges and culvert

Albany, N.Y. — Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced the availability of $200 million in enhanced assistance for local governments over the next two years to rehabilitate and replace bridges and culverts statewide. This funding, provided through the Governor's BRIDGE NY initiative, is being administered by the New York State Department of Transportation as part of its $21.1 billion five-year Capital Plan. The BRIDGE NY program provides emphasis on projects that address poor structural conditions; mitigate weight restrictions or long detours; facilitate economic development or increase competitiveness; and/or reduce the risk of flooding.

"Modernizing and improving transportation infrastructure is a vital component of enhancing New York's economic competitiveness," Governor Cuomo said. "By helping local governments make investments to ensure the safety and reliability of their bridges, the BRIDGE NY program will literally strengthen our communities and bolster their viability."

The $200 million in BRIDGE NY funding is available to all municipalities authorized to receive and administer State and federal transportation funding. Awards will be made through a competitive process and will support all phases of project development including design, right-of-way and construction. Evaluations will be based on the resiliency of the structure, the current bridge and culvert structural conditions, and the significance and importance of the bridge based on traffic volumes, detour considerations, the number and types of businesses served and the overall impact on commerce.

Applications for BRIDGE NY funding will be accepted through September 9, 2016. Applications may be found at: https://www.dot.ny.gov/bridgeny.