State of the State 2012: Senator Kennedy Applauds $1 Billion Commitment to WNY

Praises Governor Cuomo for his Determined Efforts to Grow our Regional and Statewide Economy, as Outlined in State of the State Address

ALBANY, N.Y. – Senator Timothy M. Kennedy, D-58th District, applauded the $1 billion investment in Western New York – which Governor Andrew Cuomo announced Wednesday in his 2012 State of the State address. While it was the brightest highlight of the speech for Western New York, the Governor also discussed his comprehensive statewide agenda for 2012.

“In outlining his vision for the year ahead, Governor Cuomo reiterated his commitment to work with our region’s leaders to spark economic growth in Buffalo and Western New York. The state’s $1 billion dollar investment will help put Western New Yorkers to work and significantly strengthen our regional economy,” said Senator Kennedy. “As we all strive to restore greatness to the Empire State, I want to thank Governor Cuomo for his determined efforts to fight for economic prosperity across our state, especially in Western New York.

“Governor Cuomo understands that to make New York great once again, we need a statewide approach to economic development and job creation. It began with the launch of our Regional Economic Development Councils, and today, our statewide job creation program has grown even stronger with this $1 billion commitment to Western New York.

“This investment sends a clear message to Western New Yorkers – Governor Cuomo shares our belief that our best days are still ahead of us. We are confident that this $1 billion will unleash the potential for major economic growth in Western New York, as it will help us attract new industries, invest in existing businesses, train our workforce and improve our infrastructure.

“When it comes to making strategic state investments to spark private-sector growth, Governor Cuomo is right to target the revitalization of our transportation infrastructure and energy infrastructure. The NY Works Fund and Task Force will go a long way toward fixing our crumbling roads and bridges, and it will create jobs. Ensuring energy is affordable and accessible for businesses across our state – especially in Western New York – will also lead to considerable economic activity and growth.

“Last year, by working together – Democrats and Republicans, both houses of the Legislature and the Governor – we delivered significant progress for the people of New York. There’s still much more work ahead in 2012, but if we put the politics aside and maintain our focus on growing our economy, we will continue to move New York State in the right direction. I’m looking forward to hard work ahead in the upcoming legislative session.”

Senator Timothy M. Kennedy represents the New York State Senate’s 58th District, which is comprised of the towns of Cheektowaga, Eden, Hamburg and West Seneca, the city of Lackawanna and parts of the city of Buffalo. More information is available at http://kennedy.nysenate.gov.