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Binghamton, NY - As part of his effort to help spur economic development and improve the quality of life for residents, Congressman Maurice Hinchey (D-NY) today announced $4 million in new federal funding for Binghamton's Front Street Gateway reconstruction project. The funds, which Hinchey recently secured from Congress, will be used to reconstruct Front Street from Prospect Street to Main Street.
"These federal funds will literally open up a 'gateway' of economic opportunity for Binghamton," Hinchey said. "Once this project is completed, residents, current business owners, prospective business owners, and visitors will truly realize the city's great future and its potential for strong economic growth. This project really holds an important key to Binghamton's long-term prosperity. I'm delighted to have been able to secure these funds and help do my part to ensure the Front Street Gateway project comes to fruition."
Front Street, which acts as a gateway into the Binghamton central business district for travelers from I-81 and Route 17, has been designated by the city as the highest priority among its three primary arteries. Its current condition detracts from Binghamton's image and hinders economic development. The project will include new pavement, sidewalks, curbs, bicycle accommodations, traffic signals as necessary, and other design elements currently under consideration to distinguish
it as a "Gateway Street." The project length is approximately 1.5 miles.
Hinchey secured the funds for the Front Street Gateway reconstruction project from Congress as part of the Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users (TEA-LU) measure, which is a major transportation projects bill. The president signed the measure into law in August. Recognizing the importance of the project to Binghamton, Hinchey secured more funds for the gateway initiative than any other project for which he secured funds in the TEA-LU measure.
"In addition to helping boost economic development in Binghamton and improving the quality of life for residents, this federal grant will also spare local taxpayers from a significant part of the price tag," Hinchey said. "I will continue to look for ways to bring federal money back to Binghamton to continue our efforts to improve the quality of life and bolster economic development in the area."
Joining Hinchey at the event were Binghamton Mayor Richard Bucci, Binghamton City Council President Ed Collins, Broome County Executive Barbara Fiala, Greater Binghamton Coalition Executive Director Jim DiMascio, and Broome County Metropolitan Transportation Study Representative Cyndi Paddick.
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