Governor David Paterson is drawing fire from both sides of the political aisle for axing a $25 billion capital plan for roads and bridges.
This week Paterson rejected the five-year plan submitted by the Department of Transportation, saying it would require a tax increase to fund it. The state is grappling with a three billion dollar mid-year budget deficit.
Fellow Democrat, Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell is among those registering her disappointment.
"While we are in difficult economic times, not investing in our transportation system is wrong," Ms. Russell said in a press release.
She said the Governor is going back on an agreement with lawmakers to invest in upstate infrastructure.
"I expected that funding the plan would be difficult. However, not to support a plan with some funding for our needs over the next several years is a snub to our entire region and will cost us more over the long run," Russell said.
She said making repairs to the North Country's infrastructure is critical to its economic recovery and growth.
"I will continue to push vigorously for an agreement that addresses our most urgent transportation needs and demonstrated a vision for future investment to aid in our economic sustainability," Russell said.
