Hoyt, Grisanti Call on NYS DOT to Pursue Federal High Speed Rail Funding

Lobbying Feds Could Result in up to $2.4 Billion for New York

BUFFALO- Senator Mark Grisanti (R-Buffalo) and Assemblyman Sam Hoyt (D-Buffalo) sent a letter to NYS DOT Commissioner Joan McDonald this week urging her to pursue $2.4 billion in federal funds that are available for high speed rail after Florida rejected the money.

Hoyt and Grisanti said in the letter: “The economic impact of a high speed rail connection from Buffalo to New York City would be tremendous, and the service would be expeditious, easy, environmentally friendly and energy efficient.”

Application for the additional high speed rail money will be due on April 4. The main selection criteria include the project’s ability to reduce energy consumption, improve the efficiency of a region’s overall transportation network, and generate sustained economic activity along the corridor.

”I hope that the New York State Department of Transportation will join me and Senator Grisanti in our lobbying efforts to secure these high speed rail funds for New York State,” Hoyt said. “Swift and bold action must be taken to show our interest and commitment to building a world-class high speed rail line connecting New York’s major cities. This state is ready and waiting for this boost in funding and I hope it is aggressively pursued by DOT officials.”