After weeks of delays, the New York State Legislature approved a budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year that included millions in transit funding for upstate communities.
The package includes ten individual bills, totaling in a $268 billion budget, a $14 billion increase compared to the previous year.
The budget also includes spending and policies that will help vulnerable populations deal with rising costs.
To offset high utility bills, $1 billion in energy rebate checks were set aside for eligible New Yorkers. New York taxpayers will receive a one-time payment for a rebate equal to $100 for individual filers and either $150 or $200 for married individuals.
Here are the highlights of the budget’s transportation funding.
Funding for Rochester-area transit upgrades
7% increase for upstate public transit
New York’s State Operating Assistance will receive an additional $5 million, totaling $374.5 million in funding for upstate New York transit systems like Rochester’s Regional Transit Service, in part to help secure more frequent and efficient routes.
$3 million for RGRTA Expansion to Yates County
Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation Authority (RGRTA) will receive $4 million to expand into Yates County without impacting existing services in Monroe County.
$50 million towards the repair and upkeep of local roads and bridges
Through the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPs), $50 million will be allocated to repairs and upkeep of local roads and bridges.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: NY budget lands millions for upstate public transit, bridge repair
Reporting by Genae Shields, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
