Senator Bonacic Announces $5 Million Commitment from NYSDOT for the Development of an Implementation Plan for Route 17

(Albany, NY)- State Senator John J. Bonacic (R/C/I-Mt. Hope) announced today that he has successfully worked to secure at commitment from the New York State Department of Transportation for $5 million for the development of an implementation plan for improvements of the Route 17 corridor in Orange and Sullivan counties.

In 2013, the NYS Department of Transportation recommended adding capacity along the Route 17 corridor to prevent worsening traffic issues. Since that time, there have been several high profile projects that have been proposed and completed, including Resorts World Catskills and YO1 Wellness Center in Sullivan County and Legoland in Orange County.

“This $5 million will finally allow us to move forward on making much needed improvements to the Route 17 corridor,” said Senator Bonacic. “The Catskills and Mid-Hudson regions are experiencing an economic boon, and Route 17 is a critical thoroughfare that allows residents and visitors to travel to the many tourist destinations. We need to be ready to move forward expeditiously should federal infrastructure money become available, and this funding will ensure that we are.”

“With all the development coming to Sullivan County, widening is needed more than ever, and I thank Senator Bonacic for his continued attention to this critical project,” stated Sullivan County Legislature Chairman Luis Alvarez. “We want to be a welcoming, fun place to live and visit, and that begins with convenient, efficient access to the Sullivan Catskills’ world-class destinations.”

Town of Wallkill Supervisor Edward A. Diana said, “I’m very pleased that the Department of Transportation has committed to spending $5 million to develop a plan to make much needed improvements on Route 17. Throughout my 12 years as Orange County Executive, I made making improvements to Route 17 one of my top priorities, and working with state and local partners, we made important upgrades. Now with the influx of new economic development in the Hudson Valley it is imperative that we have a plan to meet the growing demand that will be placed on Route 17. I thank Senator Bonacic and the State for his strong efforts in securing this funding.”