Contact: Michael A. Gapin
Commissioner, Dept of Planning
(315) 798-5800
Oneida County Executive Ralph J. Eannace Jr. today reacted to the award of the Oneida County Capital Investment Grant for a Rome VIP garage rehabilitation and for the purchase of three demand response vehicles. The grant was approved by the Federal Transit Administration. Eannace said, "Through the support of Congressman Sherwood Boehlert, this project was included in the Transportation Equity Act for 21st Century". The total value of the grant is $620,313. The Federal share of 80% is $495,250, New York State provides 10% ($62,031) and the City of Rome local share is 10% ($62,031).
Michael A. Gapin, Oneida County Commissioner of Planning said "The proposed garage rehabilitation will include roof reconstruction, and redesign of the maintenance and office space to meet the increased needs of a larger fleet." In addition, two old Dial-A-Ride buses used for demand response service for the handicapped will be replaced, along with replacement of an elderly and handicapped vehicle. The estimated cost of the garage rehabilitation is $440,000 while the buses are $180,000.
Joseph A. Griffo, Mayor of the City of Rome concluded by saying, "We continually examine new transportation needs for Rome and seek out funding sources. We are pleased with the announcement indicating our efforts were successful. We are grateful to Congressman Boehlert for advocacy on transportation issues and efforts in securing these funds. We also appreciate Oneida County playing an instrumental role in submitting the application for the money on behalf of the City of Rome."