Saratoga Standard

Assemblyman Matt Simpson and Assemblywoman Mary Beth Walsh came together at the Halfmoon Highway Garage to rally for increased Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) funding on March 1, 2024.

"The governor's proposal to reduce CHIPS funding by $60 million is shortsighted and fails to address the urgent needs of our local transportation systems... Neglecting our infrastructure now will only exacerbate the $89 billion in unmet local needs over the next two decades, jeopardizing economic growth and public safety... We must restore the $60 million cut to CHIPS and increase funding by $200 million to invest in our future and build thriving communities," Simpson emphasized.

Walsh echoed the urgency of the situation, stating, "The risk of a significant $60 million reduction in CHIPS funding is simply unacceptable as it provides the primary source of funding for local roads and bridges... Poor road and bridge conditions in the state are costing drivers an extra $36.7 billion annually in increased vehicle operating costs, traffic accidents and congestion-related delays. It only makes sense to override this burden and address the problem at its source—by maintaining our roads."

The call for increased CHIPS funding stems from concerns over the governor's proposed budget cutting $60 million from the program, despite local governments maintaining a vast majority of New York roads. The speakers highlighted the detrimental impact of underfunding on infrastructure, public safety, and economic growth, emphasizing the need to invest in maintaining and improving the state's transportation systems.