Write a commentU.S. Rep. John Katko (NY-24) today issued the below statement following Governor Cuomo’s announcement that he has directed the NYS Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) to employ an independent firm to fully study a wider range of options for replacing Interstate 81:
“I applaud Governor Cuomo for moving forward to conduct studies on additional options for the I-81 rebuild in Syracuse. This project will impact our regional transportation infrastructure for generations to come, and it is critical that all options are carefully studied and that input is considered from all around our community.
“I have repeatedly urged a comprehensive study of options for the I-81 rebuild and increased public participation in this process. Most recently, I joined many community members, local legislators, civic groups and business owners in calling for more specific information from NYSDOT on how this rebuild will impact not only the City of Syracuse, but many of the surrounding towns and villages.
“Today’s decision to study five options – including a tunnel option – reflects the wishes of our community, and offers a new opportunity to get closer to a regional consensus for the final design. I look forward to reviewing the final study, and will continue to engage in a public discourse on the future of Interstate 81 as we determine which option is best for all of Central New York.”
Rep. Katko has long advocated for an informed, community-based decision on the I-81 rebuild project. Following a December 2016 community forum, Rep. Katko called on NYSDOT to answer key questions raised by the community in that forum.
While NYSDOT is tasked with making a final determination on how to replace the aging I-81 viaduct, federal funds will provide for 80% of the project. In Congress, Rep. Katko sits on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Last year, as part of a long-term highway bill that he helped negotiate, Interstate 81 was designated a high priority corridor.
Congressman John Katko represents the 24th Congressional District, which includes all of Onondaga, Cayuga, and Wayne Counties and a portion of Oswego County. For more information, please visit https://katko.house.gov or www.facebook.com/RepJohnKatko.
