Statement by AJ Castelbuono, President & CEO of the Associated General Contractors, NYS Chapter, Inc.

ALBANY, NY (08/02/2007)(readMedia)-- AJ Castelbuono, President & CEO of the Associated General Contractors, New York State Chapter, Inc., released the following statement today on the tragic bridge collapse in Minnesota:

“Our hearts and prayers go out to the families of those persons whose lives have been terribly altered by the Minneapolis tragedy.

However, it is important to remind our legislators that New York continues to have one of the worst Bridge conditions in the Nation and very soon a perfect storm will be looming on the horizon. Our state source of revenue, the Dedicated Highway & Bridge Trust Fund will not only be lacking in increased revenues to fix our roads and bridges but will experience a deficit of $719 million in a few short years. We need to begin focusing on the issue to make safe roads and bridges a reality. We are encouraged that the NYSDOT will shortly be releasing their needs study to help the public understand the magnitude of the problem and avoid catastrophes in the future.”

Founded in 1926, the New York State Chapter, Inc., Associated General Contractors is the largest statewide highway construction organization in New York, representing nearly 400 members dedicated to the ideals of skill, integrity and responsibility.

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