Assemblyman Fred W. Thiele, Jr. (I, D, WF, REF - Sag Harbor) announced that $5.6 million in new funding for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure has been awarded for three projects throughout Long Island, including $756,000 to the Town of Southampton toward construction of the new Hampton Bays bicycle and multi-use trail.

This new infrastructure investment, which is part of a $144.6 million investment statewide, will support the construction of new multi-use bicycle and pedestrian facilities, new ADA accessible sidewalks, improved access to public transportation and enhanced roadway safety.

Statewide, these projects will spur additional investment of more than $215 million, including public and private support, in local enhancements that will revitalize communities, promote tourism and enhance regional economic competitiveness.

The Long Island projects were selected through a competitive solicitation process. Awardees presented plans that will increase options for non-vehicular transportation, reduce vehicle emissions or traffic congestion, or both. The funding, which will provide up to 80 percent of the cost of each project, is made available through the Federal Highway Administration and administered directly by the New York State Department of Transportation.