The U.S. Senate [on July 28] voted to move forward a historic $550 billion infrastructure bill. While there are still several legislative steps ahead of its full passage, it’s $110 billion investment for highways holds the power to transform communities like Central New York. Furthermore, it comes as the long-awaited Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the […]
The U.S. Senate [on July 28] voted to move forward a historic $550 billion infrastructure bill. While there are still several legislative steps ahead of its full passage, it’s $110 billion investment for highways holds the power to transform communities like Central New York.
Furthermore, it comes as the long-awaited Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the I-81 Viaduct Project was released by the Federal Highway Administration and the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT). The significance of the alignment of these cannot be understated as they represent an unprecedented, once-in-a-generation opportunity for our region.
To realize the full potential of the I-81 project and investments, CenterState CEO has long advocated for 10 Community Grid Plus recommendations (https://www.centerstateceo.com/sites/default/files/Community_Grid_Plus_10_Enhancements_2.19.pdf). These suggested enhancements are the direct result of our members’ thoughtful engagement in this process through our I-81 work group and focused member surveys. The inclusion of seven of the recommendations means their voices were heard.
Now it’s your turn. The New York State Department of Transportation is currently seeking input from all parts of the community. A summary of the DEIS can be read at https://parsonsecmpublic.s3.amazonaws.com/I-81-DEIS/07-2021/08%20Summary%20of%20Alternatives_July%202021.pdf.
The full DEIS can be viewed at https://static.parsons.com/I-81-DEIS/07-2021/. You can also get additional information on public-engagement opportunities, including public hearings and how to comment during the 60-day public comment period at https://webapps.dot.ny.gov/i-81-viaduct-project-public-outreach. I encourage your active participation in this comment period to ensure this project benefits from all voices across our community, including businesses, residents, and institutions that share a goal of greater prosperity in Syracuse and Central New York.
Our team is actively reviewing the full DEIS, and we will continue to update our members on important project developments. To learn more about how you can support CenterState CEO’s I-81 outreach and advocacy efforts, contact David Mankiewicz, senior VP of research, policy, and planning at dmankiewicz@centerstateceo.com or Jonathan Link Logan, director, Northside UP at jlinklogan@centerstateceo.com.
Robert M. Simpson is president and CEO of CenterState CEO, the primary economic-development organization for Central New York. This article is drawn and edited from the “CEO Focus” email newsletter that the organization sent to members on July 29.
