Sen. Fred Akshar joins local highway superintendents to announce over $361,000 in new shared services equipment for roads and bridges

(ENDWELL, NY) Senator Fred Akshar joined local highway superintendents from across Broome County at the Town of Union Highway Department to announce $361,176 in funding for new road repair equipment to be shared by local municipalities throughout Broome County.

The new equipment will help local municipalities complete essential infrastructure projects to repair and maintain local roadways, large culverts and heavy rock work without the cost being passed on through local property tax increases. After discussing the equipment needs with local highway superintendents, Senator Akshar went to work and secured the funding in the New York State Budget.

The $361,176 will cover the purchase of a new Excavator, a Rubber Tire Roller and a Road Widener. The funding will be allocated to the Town of Union through the State and Municipal Facilities Program of the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).
 

Senator Fred Akshar said, “I'm happy to fight for any resources or support for the 52nd Senate District that I can, and we're always looking for ways to make our local community more sustainable and affordable. We talk about the need to consolidate services, but our local municipalities have already been doing it for years. With this funding they'll be able to do it better, without raising local property taxes to cover the cost.”

Joel Kie, President of the Broome County Highway Association and Town of Dickinson Highway Superintendent, said, “This is a great day for all the residents of Broome County. With the help of Fred Akshar we were able to purchase three new pieces of equipment that will be shared with all the towns and villages. Saving tax payers money and utilizing shared services.”

Chet Kupiec, Town of Union Highway Superintendent, said “It's been great working with DASNY and Senator Akshar's staff. I couldn't be happier with the process. We've been consolidating services for quite some time and this helps us continue to do that and do it better. This will be the first Cat 320 Next Generation Excavator in Broome County and we're happy to be able to share it throughout our community.”