Erie County Legislature Chairman John Mills has reviewed New York State’s proposal to transfer the former 219 bridge to Erie and Cattaraugus counties and encourages the County Executive to strongly consider taking ownership of the bridge.

“The adopted New York State budget contains funding for the bridge, including $20 million for reconstruction and $300,000 for future maintenance costs. The bridge is vital for transporting motorists to Springville, Concord and surrounding areas and local businesses heavily rely on this traffic. My concern is that the state will invoke its lawful right to close the bridge completely. That would be devastating to southern Erie County communities,” said Chairman Mills. “While I have opposed transferring the bridge to the counties in the past, I believe that based on our current situation it would be in the best interest of the counties and their residents to take ownership of the bridge and partner with New York State to utilize the millions in dedicated funding.”

Chairman Mills sent a letter to County Executive Mark Poloncarz on April 22, 2015, urging him to demonstrate leadership in this situation and protect the businesses and residents that rely on the bridge. To review a copy of the letter, please CLICK HERE.

Legislator Mills can be reached at 858-8850 or email at john.mills@erie.gov for additional information.