The Erie County Legislature got its first look at the 2015 Road Project List at the end of the last week, which outlines the administration’s plan to tackle infrastructure concerns. The plan calls for more than $29 million in road work throughout the county, however some questions remain about how much of that funding will be spent this year. 

The list includes minimal information about the specific projects or a timeline, however I will be requesting additional information from the administration to ensure residents are aware of when work is expected to begin, how long it will take to complete, and how the traffic patterns will be impacted.  The $29 million allocation also includes funding for various overlay projects on roads. The information from the County Executive does not detail exactly what repairs have been scheduled for specific roads at this time, but I will be requesting that information be provided to the Legislature. 

Among the projects announced in my district is the repair of Seneca Street in West Seneca. The Erie County Water Authority will be replacing a water main, and after that work is complete, the road will be paved. The repave will extend the length of Seneca Street between Union Road and Orchard Park Road. Also planned in West Seneca are repairs to Fisher Road, from Orchard Park Road to the Lackawanna City line, and, Langner Road, between Ridge Road and Fisher Road. 

The county has also identified two major bridges in the Town of Elma that will need to be rebuilt. Thankfully, funding for the Jamison Road Bridge ($2.2 million) and Girdle Road Bridge ($1.8 million) is included in the 2015 Road Project List. I am hopeful that these projects will be completed as soon as possible to ensure the safety of motorists, and I encourage the administration to do everything possible to expedite these projects. Delaying these rebuilds could force the county to make temporary repairs, which will only add to the total cost of a new bridge in the future. 

In another matter, I have been corresponding with business owners who will be impacted by the recent passage of Erie County’s Pawn Shop Law.  That law was approved unanimously by the Erie County Legislature, and is expected to be confirmed by the County Executive.  While the law will help law enforcement officials  in their efforts to locate and return stolen items, some of the language raises concerns for business owners. I am working on addressing those concerns with business owners,  and if necessary will be proposing a revised local law to make minor adjustments that will maintain the intent of the law without adding obtrusive regulations.. 

I am interested in hearing your comments on any of the above mentioned topics or other county issues. Please contact me at 858-8922 or email joseph.lorigo@erie.gov.