July 28, 2008

Ranzenhofer announces approval to accept bids for Tonawanda Creek Road reconstruction

(Clarence, New York) –Through the leadership of Legislator Michael Ranzenhofer, the Erie County Legislature passed a resolution at their July 17, 2008 session authorizing the Erie County Department of Public Works to accept bids for Tonawanda Creek Road reconstruction. Tonawanda Creek Road was heavily damaged due to severe weather and has been closed to travel for years. The cost of this reconstruction is estimated at $3,150,000.

A strong advocate for this project, Legislator Ranzenhofer stated, "This project will make it easier for Clarence residents to drive to work and school and to get to their day-to-day activities. It will also allow emergency personnel quicker access when responding to emergencies." He continued, "The residents of Clarence have waited far too long for real progress on Tonawanda Creek Road reconstruction and it is important to do all we can to move this project ahead as quickly as possible."

"As residents know, we have serious infrastructure needs throughout Erie County," said Erie County Executive Chris Collins. "My administration is committed to making road and bridge repair a priority as we prepare for the growth of our community. I greatly appreciate Legislator Ranzenhofer's leadership in this critical effort."

With the Legislature voting to allow the Department of Public Works to bid the project, another hurdle has been cleared. Earlier this summer, the legislature approved the acquisition of the right-of-way properties that will be necessary to proceed with reconstruction on Tonawanda Creek Road. The project has also been approved for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and New York State Emergency Management Office (SEMO) funding. Under the funding agreement Erie County is due to be reimbursed for 75% of the design and construction costs by FEMA and 12.5% by SEMO.

Bids will be accepted over the next few months and the construction contract will be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder. After the contract has been awarded, construction on Tonawanda Creek Road can begin. Approval is also required from the Erie County Fiscal Stability Authority and the Erie County Comptroller's office.

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