APRIL 2, 2008

COUNTY LEGISLATOR LOUGHRAN LEADS LEGISLATURE IN APPROVING STIMULUS FUNDS FOR MAPLE ROAD WORK

Erie County Legislator Thomas A. Loughran (D-Amherst, Tonawanda, Cheektowaga) led the Erie County Legislature in unanimously approving using federal stimulus funds to help rebuild and rehabilitate Maple Road in Amherst at its April 2 session.

The County Legislature, following the review and approval of the Economic Development Committee, chaired by Legislator Timothy M. Kennedy (D-South Buffalo), approved a construction contract and a change order for construction inspection services, as well as engineering services and acquisition of rights-of way, for the reconstruction of Maple Road from Niagara Falls Boulevard (US Route 62) to Flint Road. Also included in the project will be the reconstruction of North Bailey Avenue from Maple Road to Romney Road in Amherst.

About $7 million in federal stimulus funding will be used for this project, estimated to cost about $12,793,000, and with other federal and state aid worked in, the local share required for the Maple Road project is $2,257,000. The project has been approved by the New York State Department of Transportation in its current capital program to be funded with federal aid funds, and is tentatively scheduled for letting on April 23, 2009.

"This action became a case of 'use it or lose it' as the federal stimulus funding was concerned. By this approval, we can help stop the deterioration of Maple Road and lessen the congestion and other problems for the traveling public," Legislator Loughran said. "If we had not approved this contract, we would have jeopardized receiving the 2009 federal stimulus monies. This project has been reviewed by the County Comptroller's Office and is related to an authorized 2008 capital project."

"I am pleased that the County Legislature joined me in seeing the importance of reconstructing and improving Maple Road and in using federal stimulus aid to fund much of the work," Legislator Loughran added. "This is necessary work that will improve the travel conditions of residents, business owners, shoppers, students and others traversing the area."

The right-of-way acquisition costs are estimated at $77,900, and up to 95 percent of that cost for four parcels of land are federal and state reimbursable. The easements are needed for intersection improvements on Maple Road at Flint, North Forest and Hopkins roads.

Legislator Loughran expressed appreciation for the leadership and efforts of Legislator Kennedy through the Economic Development Committee and the support of fellow legislators.

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