Unprecedented Paving Investment Leverages $800 Million Secured in Current State Budget to Reinforce the State Department of Transportation’s Capital Plan, Largest in State History
Nearly 2,150 Lane Miles To Be Paved in Every Region of the State in Addition to the Department’s Core Road and Bridge Program
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced an unprecedented investment to renew dozens of vital state roadways across New York State during the 2026 construction season. Leveraging the $800 million that Governor Hochul secured in the most recent state budget to augment the final two years of its five-year, $34.3 billion Capital Plan, the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) will invest more than $600 million in over 180 paving projects across the state to be completed next year. These projects, which total almost 2,150 lane miles, are in addition to the paving initiatives already scheduled as part of NYSDOT’s core programs and, taken together, represent the most ambitious annual road resurfacing agenda ever put forward by NYSDOT. This historic investment is part of Governor Hochul’s commitment to improve public safety through critical investments in transportation infrastructure, enhancing quality of life for all New Yorkers. In 2022, Governor Hochul secured full funding for NYSDOT’s 2022-2027 Capital Plan, the largest in the agency’s history.
“As someone who has ridden on virtually every mile of every state road across New York, I know firsthand every curve and every pothole, and next year we will be making an unprecedented investment to improve state roads across New York,” Governor Hochul said. “New Yorkers will be seeing crews out there like never before next year, rejuvenating highways, enhancing the safety of the traveling public, and laying a solid foundation for economic development across the Empire State.”
Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State is investing in road and bridge infrastructure more than ever before in state history. The $34.3 billion, five-year Capital Plan, the largest in State Department of Transportation history, helps fulfill the Governor’s vision for a modern transportation system that serves all New Yorkers. That plan was bolstered in the most recent state budget with an additional $800 million to augment NYSDOT’s purchasing power. Thanks to that funding commitment, and taking into account the Department of Transportation’s core paving program in its current Capital Plan, a total of over 250 pavement renewal projects across the state are planned for 2026, a nearly $1.2 billion investment that will resurface more than 4,000 lane miles.
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Today’s historic announcement firmly demonstrates Governor Hochul’s commitment to fundamentally investing in building back our roadway network to meet the challenges of the 21st century. Now, thanks to the Governor’s unprecedented investment, we are putting that commitment into high gear with an historic paving agenda for 2026 that will provide easier travel on roads from one end of the state to the other. Infrastructure investments like these are foundational to the future of the New York that Governor Hochul is building, a future that is affordable, safe and healthy for all residents.”
State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins said, “Every New Yorker and visitor to our state who drives our roads understands how critical it is to maintain them, especially after the wear and tear of our winters. This record-breaking Capital Plan ensures that 2026 will be the biggest year of road paving in New York’s history, reaching more communities in every region of the state. Investing in our infrastructure strengthens safety, supports local economies, and improves quality of life. I’m proud that under the Senate Democratic Majority, we've secured historic funding to upkeep our infrastructure. I would also like to extend my gratitude to Governor Hochul and my colleagues in the Assembly for their partnership in making this vision a reality.”
State Senator Jeremy Cooney said, “I’m grateful for Governor Hochul’s partnership in bolstering our infrastructure and transportation systems statewide. Working with my legislative colleagues, I look forward to building off of today’s announcement as we continue to push for the types of investments that give New Yorkers the safe, reliable road systems they deserve.”
State Senator Michelle Hinchey said, “Investing in our local roads delivers benefits we can see and feel right away, making a real difference in our daily lives. I’m proud that the funding we fought for is coming home to the Hudson Valley and Capital Region to repave and improve our roads. Thank you to Governor Hochul and NYSDOT Commissioner Dominguez for supporting these investments.”
State Senator Jacob Ashby said, “Prioritizing our local roadways is an investment in our economic competitiveness, creates great jobs and, most of all, is a common-sense investment in public safety. I was pleased to work with my colleagues in both houses and with this administration to help deliver this funding in this year's state budget, and I will continue to work in a bipartisan way to give my constituents what they deserve: modern, safe, reliable transportation infrastructure.”
"New Yorkers will be seeing crews out there like never before next year, rejuvenating highways, enhancing the safety of the traveling public, and laying a solid foundation for economic development across the Empire State.”
State Senator Patricia Fahy said, “Investing in our road and bridge infrastructure is critical to improving public safety and quality of life across our state. The Department of Transportation’s commitment to improving vital roadways and reinforcing the goals of the State's core paving program shows an expansive and dedicated effort to modernize our transit systems to better serve New Yorkers. Thank you to Governor Hochul and the NYSDOT for this unprecedented investment and for your continued efforts to revitalize and strengthen transportation infrastructure in the Capital Region and across New York State.”
Assemblymember William Magnarelli said, “The Governor’s commitment for 2026 to the largest number of paving projects in New York’s history is a great investment in our infrastructure and making our roadways more efficient and safer for all.”
Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, RPh, said, “As a former mayor, I know firsthand the importance of keeping our roadways in good condition for drivers, local businesses and emergency services that depend on reliable infrastructure. This paving program will strengthen connections and ensure that our roads continue to support residents and businesses alike. I thank Governor Hochul and the Department of Transportation for making this investment.”
Assemblymember MaryJane Shimsky said, “Fixing New York's crumbling roadways makes driving safer for our residents, but it also does much more than that. Good roads help us attract and retain business, enable us to provide reliable bus service (a mode of mass transit relied upon far beyond our cities), and allow us to reinforce our infrastructure for climate resilience and flood mitigation. I applaud Governor Hochul's announcement. All New Yorkers will benefit from a legislature and executive that prioritize investments such as this, today and in the future.”
Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said, “This historic investment is ensuring our roads are safer, our communities are more connected, and our economy continues to move forward. This announcement builds on a strong track record of infrastructure progress under Governor Hochul’s leadership. I’m proud to support this initiative and look forward to seeing its impact across the Capital Region next year.”
Monroe County Executive Adam Bello said, “I’m grateful for Gov. Hochul’s investment in these paving projects across the state, including more than 350 miles of roads here in our region,” said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello. “These infrastructure improvements make our roads safer and improve the traveling experience for motorists across Monroe County. Thank you, Gov. Hochul, for your steadfast support.”
Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon said, “Investing in modern and reliable infrastructure is a central tenet of good government and something my administration has made a top priority. It also requires partnerships at all levels of government. With today's announcement, New York State continues its commitment to updating Route 5 - a critical thoroughfare in our community. Thank you to the State and all our partners who made this possible.”
Jefferson County Administrator Ryan Piche said, “The State Highway System is the backbone of rural transportation in the North Country. The many State Routes in Jefferson County facilitate commerce, education, and the freedom of movement we have come to expect in our everyday lives. Roads in the North Country require extra care and investment due to the harsh weather we experience every year. We are grateful to the Governor and Commissioner Dominguez for these important investments in our community.”
Franklin County Manager Donna Kissane said, “On behalf of Franklin County, we are pleased to learn that the Governor and the New York State Department of Transportation are investing over $4 million in county-wide highway infrastructure improvements. These projects will enhance the travel experience for residents and visitors.”
City of Dunkirk Mayor Kate Wdowiasz said, “On behalf of the City of Dunkirk, I wish to express our sincere appreciation to Governor Hochul and the New York State Department of Transportation for advancing the paving project along Route 5 within our city limits. This critical infrastructure investment will significantly improve roadway conditions, enhance public safety, and support continued economic growth in our region. The Governor’s commitment to modernizing New York’s transportation network ensures that communities like Dunkirk can continue to thrive and remain accessible for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
Allegany County Legislature Chairman W. Brooke Harris said, “We're thankful for Governor Hochul's continued commitment to maintaining critical highway infrastructure in Allegany County. Interstate 86 and State Route 19 are two of our most highly travelled roads for residents, visitors, and first responders. These targeted improvements will ensure their reliability and safety for many years to come.”
Cayuga County Legislature Chairman Jonathan Anna said, “We’re deeply grateful to Governor Hochul and the New York State Department of Transportation for this historic investment in our roads,” said Jonathan Anna, Chair of the Cayuga County Legislature. “The resurfacing and rehabilitation of Routes 34 and 34B will make travel safer, strengthen connections between our rural communities, and support the local economy that depends on these vital corridors. This is a major win for Cayuga County residents and businesses alike.”
Village of Fredonia Mayor Michael J Ferguson said, “Our community is better and our visitors and residents have attractive and safe pathways through our village because of Governor Hochul’s commitment to our roadways safety and beauty. I thank her for her investment in NYS Rt. 20 which is the Main Street of the Village of Fredonia.”
City of Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans said, “I applaud Gov. Kathy Hochul for making this significant investment to maintain New York’s road network. The condition of our roadways is critical to the success of our economy and the ability of our residents to travel, to work, visit a healthcare provider or shop for basic necessities.”
Ontario County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jared Simpson said, “As the Supervisor of the Town of Canandaigua and Chairman of the Ontario County Board of Supervisors, I am thrilled to recognize the historic investment by NYSDOT of over $600 million for vital road resurfacing. This proposal includes 350 miles of work in the Finger lakes region including projects in Ontario County and The Town of Canandaigua. This extensive road resurfacing plan from NYSDOT will greatly enhance our cities, towns, and villages, ensuring safer and smoother travel for all. I look forward to seeing the positive impact of these investments and am grateful for the strong relationship we have with our state partners.”