The New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) sent a letter to President Trump and Congressional leaders on June 22, calling for immediate action on infrastructure investment as part of any future economic stimulus packages. The letter included a list of infrastructure projects from 40 counties totaling more than $7.35 billion.
Orleans County is seeking $43,503,205 for a wide range of projects, including broadband access, emergency management, improvement of bridges and culverts, public water projects, and the Medina Business Park Infrastructure Project. Genesee County is seeking $183,851,000 for a shared Genesee County/Orleans County Jail in Albion, water, broadband, and bridge projects, a radio tower to boost 911/EMS radio systems, and more. Monroe County was not included on the list.
NYSAC projects that counties across New York State (outside of New York City) currently have more $10.8 billion in infrastructure funding needs. Fully funding these projects could create or save up to 200,000 jobs, helping to revitalize local economies as they begin the process of recovering from the economic devastation wrought by the pandemic.
“Now is the time to innovate, to invest in our future, and to rebuild a stronger, smarter infrastructure for the good of all,” said NYSAC President John F. Marren. “It is in this spirit of renewal that we presented these project recommendations to our federal partners. These projects represent a significant opportunity to jumpstart our economy, add construction and trade jobs to our workforce, and strengthen our infrastructure for the next generation of Americans.”
The renewed call for federal funding comes as counties grapple with dramatic drops in revenues. Sales tax revenues for the month of May were down 32 percent statewide, in line with NYSAC’s most recent Coronavirus Economic Impact Report which projects that counties outside New York City will face revenue losses of up to $2 billion and the potential of another $1.5 billion in state budget cuts.
Despite these historic revenue losses, counties are required under state law to fully fund and administer all state and federal programs, which are in high demand during the pandemic and recession.
“Every community in New York has been severely impacted by the COVID-19 and the corresponding economic shutdown in response to the virus,” said NYSAC Executive Director Stephen J. Acquario. “The infrastructure projects that we are presenting to Congress and the President today are a once in a generation opportunity to provide an economic shot in the arm and reshape these communities better and stronger than ever before.
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