Assemblyman Joseph M. Giglio (R,I,C – Gowanda) announced today that the New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) will continue ownership and maintenance responsibilities of the Route 219 bridge over Cattaraugus Creek straddling the Cattaraugus and Erie County border.

“This is a great example of the spirit of cooperation between County and State governments,” said Giglio. “I am very pleased that DOT worked with us and the counties to reach this conclusion. Many people will be glad to know that this issue has been resolved after many years of effort and advocacy on behalf of local taxpayers.”

Several years ago, Assemblyman Giglio and Senator Catharine Young introduced legislation that would have required DOT to maintain ownership of the bridge. The agreement was reached after a meeting Thursday, February 24, among DOT officials, Cattaraugus County Legislative Chairman Mike O’Brien, Erie County Executive Chris Collins, Assemblymen Giglio and Kevin Smardz, and Senators Catharine Young and Pat Gallivan.

“We have been working with the State and Regional DOT offices for several years stressing the fact that Cattaraugus County taxpayers cannot afford to maintain a bridge of that size and design,” said Giglio. “This is a great victory for local taxpayers.”

The details of the agreement will be produced in writing over the next several weeks. According to the agreement, the counties will take ownership of the road and will be responsible for snow and ice control and the State will maintain ownership and maintenance of the bridge.