Maple Road Reconstruction Moves Forward

April 2, 2009

Maple Road Reconstruction Moves Forward The Erie County Legislature unanimously passed resolutions allowing the Maple Road construction project to move forward. This will be one of the first major projects in New York State paid for with the Federal Stimulus Package. Erie County will receive $7 million to help with the cost of the road reconstruction.

Erie County Public Works Commissioner Jerry Sentz said, "We've worked really hard in anticipation of this stimulus money. Maple Road and other projects are ready to go if more federal money comes in."

Erie County Executive Chris Collins said, "It's good to hear the reconstruction of Maple Road is moving forward. Major projects like this one are vital to our area's infrastructure. We can't afford to squander opportunities for federal funding."

"I applaud the legislature and County Executive for putting politics aside and taking advantage of this one-time opportunity. This is the first economic development construction project in New York State to receive economic stimulus funds. This project will lead to jobs for hardworking Erie County residents and provide an economic boost at the time when we need it the most," said Erie County Legislator Ed Rath. The project is in Rath's district.

Normally, Erie County pays five percent of major road repairs that receive federal funding. Commissioner Sentz says the additional federal funding for Maple Road will save the County about $350,000.

Maple Road will be reconstructed from Niagara Falls Boulevard to Flint Road. Bids for the project should be open within the next month.