Senator Griffo announces $200,000 in state funding for capital projects in City of Rome

ROME – State Senator Joseph Griffo announced Friday that $200,000 in state funding has been secured for two capital projects to benefit the community.

In the first project, Senator Griffo was able to secure $150,000 in state funds that the City of Rome will be able to use to purchase a portable mobile stage that can be utilized for various community events. The portable stage will be owned and operated by the City of Rome, and could potentially be offered at the City’s discretion to be used by other neighboring localities during their own events.

In the second project, a total of $50,000 has also been secured by Senator Griffo to help enhance Veterans Memorial Park and Gansevoort Park, twin parks located on opposite sides of the 200 block of North James Street in downtown Rome.

“As a former mayor, I understand the important role that local parks play in enhancing a community’s appeal to its residents, tourists and newcomers,” Senator Griffo said. “Parks are central places to gather and host community activities, so we should continuously dedicate resources to help maintain and beautify our parks for people to use. Our veterans have done an extraordinary job working with the City of Rome to modernize Veterans Park as a fitting honor to soldiers on occasions like Memorial Day and Veterans Day, so I am pleased that these additional funds can be used to further enhance this park.”

Concerning the portable stage, Senator Griffo added, “As we prepare to celebrate Honor America Days in Rome, this large gathering is a reminder of the many events that our local communities host throughout the year during which a portable stage would better accommodate speakers and musical bands.”

City of Rome Mayor Jacqueline Izzo joined Senator Griffo on Friday at Gansevoort Park to express her appreciation for this funding.

“As we continue striving to enhance what the City of Rome has to offer its community, I want to thank Senator Griffo for always being supportive and stepping up to deliver for our city,” Mayor Izzo said. “These funds secured by the Senator will help improve our park system and the quality of life for our residents. The addition of a portable mobile stage will also greatly enhance the City’s ability to support events like Honor America Days and the various events at our parks and other venues taking place in the city throughout the year.”

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