Congressman Paul Tonko recently announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded more than $151 million in funding for high speed rail in upstate New York, which comes on the back of over $4.5 million in the FY 2010 Transportation Appropriations bill. This funding will include construction of a second track along the rail corridor between the Schenectady and Albany-Rensselaer train stations. Combined, these investments will better the local economy and improve trip time for more than 56 weekly passenger trains and over 350 weekly cargo trains.
"This will help our economic development efforts by improving rail service, reliability and creating future opportunities for high-speed rail service," said Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature.
“These investments are welcomed news in the Capital Region” said Congressman Tonko. “By investing in double tracking between Schenectady and Albany we can help develop the economy of downtown Schenectady, the only city in the region with a downtown train station, and improve trip time not only for those in the region but for travel across Upstate New York. I want to thank the Upstate New York delegation, led by Chairwoman Louise Slaughter, for working hard to deliver this investment to help revitalize our Upstate economy.” Click here for Congressman Tonko's complete release.
“This is great news for New York,” Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said. “Building high-speed rail here will connect more commuters and businesses, create jobs immediately and help rebuild our economy for the long term. We’ve worked hard for a long time to bring high-speed rail to New York. This round of funding is just the first step in our efforts to secure what New York needs to achieve true high-speed rail connectivity. I will keep fighting to make sure New York gets more high speed rail funding in future rounds.”
Showing posts with label Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. Show all posts
Monday, February 15, 2010
Monday, December 14, 2009
Senator Gillibrand and Congressman Tonko visit Schenectady launching effort to combat senior fraud
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Congressman Paul Tonko joined Susan E. Savage, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature and Mayor Brian Stratton at Proctors recently to discuss efforts to combat senior fraud. On the federal level, Senator Gillibrand announced several bills she will be introducing to increase criminal and civil penalties for defrauding seniors and incentivize states to educate and protect seniors. Chairwoman Savage also announced a local initiative intended to help educate and protect seniors in our community.
Read more news coverage here.
Read more news coverage here.
Friday, July 24, 2009
More recovery funds coming to Schenectady County
Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will provide $798,270 for General Electric Global Research Center for important biomedical research.
"This funding for biomedical research is a wise investment in the Capital Region economy," said Senator Schumer. "Not only will these federal dollars help New York institutions tackle our biggest health issues, but we will be creating research and teaching positions in the region. I will continue to fight for funding to keep our state's world-class schools and research facilities at the forefront of medicine."
"It is critical that we invest in the life-saving research at our world class medical facilities in the Capital Region," said Senator Gillibrand. "Federal funding for this cutting edge research will advance research and treatment while promoting economic growth for New York. I will continue to work with Senator Schumer to make sure New York gets its fair share of federal dollars."
Click here for more information.
"This funding for biomedical research is a wise investment in the Capital Region economy," said Senator Schumer. "Not only will these federal dollars help New York institutions tackle our biggest health issues, but we will be creating research and teaching positions in the region. I will continue to fight for funding to keep our state's world-class schools and research facilities at the forefront of medicine."
"It is critical that we invest in the life-saving research at our world class medical facilities in the Capital Region," said Senator Gillibrand. "Federal funding for this cutting edge research will advance research and treatment while promoting economic growth for New York. I will continue to work with Senator Schumer to make sure New York gets its fair share of federal dollars."
Click here for more information.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Stimulus funds provide important boost to local job training programs
According to the programs website "YouthBuild Schenectady is a 12-month program that helps young adults ages 18-24 from Schenectady County earn a GED while getting paid to build affordable housing. Participants receive six months of classroom instruction and onsite construction training and six months of job placement and support services." In this uncertain economy caused by the Bush Recession, programs such as this have an even more important role in work force training and development.
Thanks to funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which was passed with help from both of our Senators, Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and our Congressman Paul Tonko, YouthBuild Schenectady will receive $687,500 to teach "green" job skills.
Green collar jobs are considered to be a major part of the future workforce and, thanks to this funding stream, local youths will now be learning these critical skills.
For more news coverage, click here.
Thanks to funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which was passed with help from both of our Senators, Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, and our Congressman Paul Tonko, YouthBuild Schenectady will receive $687,500 to teach "green" job skills.
Green collar jobs are considered to be a major part of the future workforce and, thanks to this funding stream, local youths will now be learning these critical skills.
For more news coverage, click here.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Gillibrand releases plan to make child care affordable, accessible
According to a new report released by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, the cost of child care in the Capital Region is increasing $770 per year. Now the average family spends approximately $9,796 per year for an infant, $8,918 for a toddler and $8,179 for a school-age child. In response to the growing costs, Senator Gillibrand recently proposed plan to make child care more affordable for working families.
"In this difficult economy, parents cannot afford the rising cost of child care. Families' incomes are just not keeping pace," Senator Gillibrand said. "I speak with parents all over New York State, who tell me that something must be done. In addition to making child care more affordable for parents who work and go to school, my plan will provide special assistance to businesses that help their employees with the tremendous costs."
Click here to read the Senator's plan.
"In this difficult economy, parents cannot afford the rising cost of child care. Families' incomes are just not keeping pace," Senator Gillibrand said. "I speak with parents all over New York State, who tell me that something must be done. In addition to making child care more affordable for parents who work and go to school, my plan will provide special assistance to businesses that help their employees with the tremendous costs."
Click here to read the Senator's plan.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Gillibrand Takes Action to Reauthorize Schenectady Renewal Community Program to Revitalize Economy, Create Jobs
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand introduced legislation this week to save and create jobs in Schenectady. The Empowerment Zone and Renewal Community Enhancement Act of 2009 would continue efforts to promote revitalization and economic development through 2015.
"Creating good-paying jobs right here in New York is my top priority," Senator Gillibrand said. "The Renewal Community Program has been critical for the revitalization of Schenectady. During these tough economic times, we must provide the tools and resources our communities need to promote growth, create jobs, and attract businesses. This program is an essential part of our long term economic development efforts."
Click here for more information.
"Creating good-paying jobs right here in New York is my top priority," Senator Gillibrand said. "The Renewal Community Program has been critical for the revitalization of Schenectady. During these tough economic times, we must provide the tools and resources our communities need to promote growth, create jobs, and attract businesses. This program is an essential part of our long term economic development efforts."
Click here for more information.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Over $7 Million in Recovery Act Funding For New York to Combat Violent Crimes Against Women
Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand recently announced $7,374,913 will be allocated to New York State under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for the STOP Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program. The STOP Program supports communities' efforts to hire and retain criminal justice and victim services personnel that respond to violent crimes against women.
"There is nothing more important than protecting women from violent situations," Schumer said. "This funding will go a long way in ensuring that women, communities, and law enforcement have the necessary tools to protect themselves and their communities from needless violence, and that victims have the support they need to recover."
"As a lawmaker and a mother, I will not stand for any violence against women," Senator Gillibrand said. "This federal investment will put the resources we need on the ground to crack down on dangerous criminals hurting women and families. I will work with Senator Schumer and our Congressional Delegation to make sure New York gets its fair share from the federal government to keep our families safe."
For more information, click here.
"There is nothing more important than protecting women from violent situations," Schumer said. "This funding will go a long way in ensuring that women, communities, and law enforcement have the necessary tools to protect themselves and their communities from needless violence, and that victims have the support they need to recover."
"As a lawmaker and a mother, I will not stand for any violence against women," Senator Gillibrand said. "This federal investment will put the resources we need on the ground to crack down on dangerous criminals hurting women and families. I will work with Senator Schumer and our Congressional Delegation to make sure New York gets its fair share from the federal government to keep our families safe."
For more information, click here.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Gillibrand Pushes Historic Bill to Provide Health Coverage to All Children
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has joined in the introduction of the Medikids Insurance Act, a historic bill that would provide health coverage to all children by 2015.
"Getting everyone covered with affordable, comprehensive health care is a national priority and a moral responsibility," Senator Gillibrand said. "As a mother of two young boys, I know how important it is to secure health insurance for all children. This commonsense bill is the right step to cover all young people. When we get everyone covered, we'll ensure better health, provide better opportunities toward a bright future for our kids and young adults, and reduce the costs of care for all of us."
For more information, click here.
"Getting everyone covered with affordable, comprehensive health care is a national priority and a moral responsibility," Senator Gillibrand said. "As a mother of two young boys, I know how important it is to secure health insurance for all children. This commonsense bill is the right step to cover all young people. When we get everyone covered, we'll ensure better health, provide better opportunities toward a bright future for our kids and young adults, and reduce the costs of care for all of us."
For more information, click here.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Conversations with Kirsten
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand knows the importance of listening to her constituents. Because of this, she is giving New Yorkers a new and innovative way to get to know their Senator and ask questions. Check out her video below.
Check out her website.
Check out her website.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Niskayuna-based GE Global Research receives major stimulus investment
Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced millions in investments for energy research at Niskayuna-based General Electric Global Research to advance innovation and technology in renewable energy to combat global warming and fuel New York’s economy for the long term. The investment from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science is part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which Senators Schumer and Gillibrand and Congressman Paul Tonko helped pass earlier this year.
“Providing funds to world class research institutions will not only create jobs in New York in the short term, but will save consumers money by allowing them to buy less fuel, make us safer by fostering energy independence, and allow us to keep our resources here at home, instead of shipping them overseas,” said Senator Schumer.
“By investing in research and innovation, we can relieve our dependence on foreign oil and create jobs in New York,” Senator Gillibrand said. “New York is home to the world’s leading scientists and research institutions, which are working to develop the next generation of energy technology. These institutions provide crucial economic engines in every corner of our state. I will continue to work with Senator Schumer and the Obama Administration to direct federal dollars to develop the renewable energy industry in New York.”
The green economy is taking shape right here in Schenectady County thanks to the hardwork and leadership of Schenectady County Democrats. The Daily Gazette on February 22, 2009 quoted Jan Smith, spokeswoman for GE Energy, as saying "When the new group came in, they said we should have a climate for change. There has been an effort on [their part] to work with us and us with them." The article further stated "Smith credited the changed environment with GE's decision to locate 500 jobs related to solar and wind power generation."
Click here for more information.
“Providing funds to world class research institutions will not only create jobs in New York in the short term, but will save consumers money by allowing them to buy less fuel, make us safer by fostering energy independence, and allow us to keep our resources here at home, instead of shipping them overseas,” said Senator Schumer.
“By investing in research and innovation, we can relieve our dependence on foreign oil and create jobs in New York,” Senator Gillibrand said. “New York is home to the world’s leading scientists and research institutions, which are working to develop the next generation of energy technology. These institutions provide crucial economic engines in every corner of our state. I will continue to work with Senator Schumer and the Obama Administration to direct federal dollars to develop the renewable energy industry in New York.”
The green economy is taking shape right here in Schenectady County thanks to the hardwork and leadership of Schenectady County Democrats. The Daily Gazette on February 22, 2009 quoted Jan Smith, spokeswoman for GE Energy, as saying "When the new group came in, they said we should have a climate for change. There has been an effort on [their part] to work with us and us with them." The article further stated "Smith credited the changed environment with GE's decision to locate 500 jobs related to solar and wind power generation."
Click here for more information.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Senator Gillibrand Declares High Speed Rail In New York One Of Her Top Priorities
High speed rail is a critical infrastructure and economic development investment that will help revitalize the Upstate economy. Schenectady stands to reap major economic rewards from any major investment as a part of any high speed rail connecting Buffalo to Albany and New York City will run through Schenectady and bring tourism and other economic development opportunities.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand stated: “I am pleased that President Obama is committed developing high-speed rail. Other countries have known the benefits that high speed rail brings – it is time the U.S. pledges to modernize our rail infrastructure. President Obama included $5 billion dollars in his budget toward the development of high speed rail corridors over the next five years. That is on top of the $8 billion secured as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. These funds are vital to making high speed rail a reality in New York.
“High-speed rail is one of my top priorities for Upstate New York. It is a key component of our economic development and will spur job growth across New York. The development of high-speed rail will create an economic development engine in Upstate New York for decades. High-speed rail development means immediate job creation in construction and local suppliers. There are long-term economic development opportunities in business growth and increased tourism.
“I will work with President Obama, Governor Paterson, Senator Schumer and our Congressional Delegation to see high speed rail development in New York State.”
Click here for more information.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand stated: “I am pleased that President Obama is committed developing high-speed rail. Other countries have known the benefits that high speed rail brings – it is time the U.S. pledges to modernize our rail infrastructure. President Obama included $5 billion dollars in his budget toward the development of high speed rail corridors over the next five years. That is on top of the $8 billion secured as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. These funds are vital to making high speed rail a reality in New York.
“High-speed rail is one of my top priorities for Upstate New York. It is a key component of our economic development and will spur job growth across New York. The development of high-speed rail will create an economic development engine in Upstate New York for decades. High-speed rail development means immediate job creation in construction and local suppliers. There are long-term economic development opportunities in business growth and increased tourism.
“I will work with President Obama, Governor Paterson, Senator Schumer and our Congressional Delegation to see high speed rail development in New York State.”
Click here for more information.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Schenectady County receives over $389K in FEMA funds for December Ice Storm cleanup
In a recent release, Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand applauded FEMA for issuing the first round of emergency disaster aid, which includes $88,647 for entities within Schenectady County, for damage caused by the December ice storm. Following the urging of Senators Schumer and Gillibrand and Congressman Paul Tonko, FEMA reversed its decision to not issue a major disaster declaration and will now provide aid to help cover the costs of the storm damage. Because of their efforts, Schenectady County residents will gain important relief from cleanup and repair costs that would have otherwise be borne by local taxpayers.
"This critical assistance is coming just in time for the counties in the Capital Region and the Hudson Valley that were severely damaged in last December's storm," said Schumer. "These communities have sustained major damages and had been forced to foot the bill. I am so glad that I could help secure this first round of federal aid to the region to help get these counties back on their feet."
"The Capital Region and Hudson Valley were hit hard in December by ice storms. These federal dollars will go a long way to helping the communities and businesses get back on their feet. New York families are dealing with enough in this economy, they shouldn't be left holding the bag after natural disaster such as this," said Senator Gillibrand.
Click here for more information.
Update: An additional $300,599 was received in the second round of funding. Click here for more information.
"This critical assistance is coming just in time for the counties in the Capital Region and the Hudson Valley that were severely damaged in last December's storm," said Schumer. "These communities have sustained major damages and had been forced to foot the bill. I am so glad that I could help secure this first round of federal aid to the region to help get these counties back on their feet."
"The Capital Region and Hudson Valley were hit hard in December by ice storms. These federal dollars will go a long way to helping the communities and businesses get back on their feet. New York families are dealing with enough in this economy, they shouldn't be left holding the bag after natural disaster such as this," said Senator Gillibrand.
Click here for more information.
Update: An additional $300,599 was received in the second round of funding. Click here for more information.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Earth Day News
April 22 was the 39th Annual Earth Day celebration attempting to raise awareness about our environment and Democrats representing Schenectady County celebrated different environmental measures and shared their thoughts on this important day.
Congressman Paul Tonko released a statement on Earth Day and the importance of greening our workforce. “This year represents a great opportunity for all of us to ensure a cleaner, safer and greener environment." Click here to read the full statement.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced legislation to save environmental education entitled "No Child Left Inside." These tough economic times have left many school district with tough decisions and often important evironmental science programs are being cut. This important legislation would provide grants through the Department of Education to help maintain these programs. For more information, click here.
Governor Paterson was honored by environmental advocates for passing the Bigger Better Bottle Bill as part of this year's budget. This represents a major accomplishment in the nine year struggle to improve our environment and increase recycling. For more information on this event, click here.
Congressman Paul Tonko released a statement on Earth Day and the importance of greening our workforce. “This year represents a great opportunity for all of us to ensure a cleaner, safer and greener environment." Click here to read the full statement.
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced legislation to save environmental education entitled "No Child Left Inside." These tough economic times have left many school district with tough decisions and often important evironmental science programs are being cut. This important legislation would provide grants through the Department of Education to help maintain these programs. For more information, click here.
Governor Paterson was honored by environmental advocates for passing the Bigger Better Bottle Bill as part of this year's budget. This represents a major accomplishment in the nine year struggle to improve our environment and increase recycling. For more information on this event, click here.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Gillibrand Leads By Example: Launches First Sunlight Report
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand recently launched her Sunlight Report including her official Senate schedule, personal financial disclosure, and complete list of appropriations requests online for the public to see. Just as she did in the House of Representatives, Senator Gillibrand is doing her part to ensure open government and provide more transparency for the process. The Sunlight Report is part of Senator Gillibrand's new online office.
The Sunlight Report, along with a personal message from Senator Gillibrand, can be viewed on her website at http://gillibrand.senate.gov/newsroom/schedule/.
"The public deserves a government that is open, honest, and transparent," Senator Gillibrand said. "That's what this Web site is about. New Yorkers can log on and see what I'm working on, keep track of the progress we're making to improve their lives, and send me ideas along the way."
Click here for more information.
The Sunlight Report, along with a personal message from Senator Gillibrand, can be viewed on her website at http://gillibrand.senate.gov/newsroom/schedule/.
"The public deserves a government that is open, honest, and transparent," Senator Gillibrand said. "That's what this Web site is about. New Yorkers can log on and see what I'm working on, keep track of the progress we're making to improve their lives, and send me ideas along the way."
Click here for more information.
Schumer, Gillibrand announces $374,989 will go to health clinic in Schenectady County
Schenectady Family Health Services, Inc. will receive $374,989 in funding from President Obama’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for adding providers and expanding service and hours of operation. The funding will provide greater access to medical care for Schenectady County residents.
“These funds are just what the doctor ordered,” said Senator Charles Schumer. “In these tough economic times, this federal funding from the Economic Recovery Package will go a long way in ensuring that all residents have continued access to quality, affordable healthcare.”
"Community Health Centers are a lifeline to many families across New York," said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. "During these tough economic times, it is more important than ever that our families continue to receive the care they need. These federal dollars are a step in the right direction to helping community health centers, which are the true safety net providers for the people who need care most. I will continue to work hard in the Senate to ensure New York gets its fair share of federal dollars."
Click here and here for more information.
“These funds are just what the doctor ordered,” said Senator Charles Schumer. “In these tough economic times, this federal funding from the Economic Recovery Package will go a long way in ensuring that all residents have continued access to quality, affordable healthcare.”
"Community Health Centers are a lifeline to many families across New York," said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. "During these tough economic times, it is more important than ever that our families continue to receive the care they need. These federal dollars are a step in the right direction to helping community health centers, which are the true safety net providers for the people who need care most. I will continue to work hard in the Senate to ensure New York gets its fair share of federal dollars."
Click here and here for more information.
Schumer, Gillibrand announce Schenectady County will receive $42,550 in Economic Recovery Act funding for emergency food and shelter program
U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand have announced that Schenectady County will receive $42,550 in Economic Recovery Act funding for FEMA's the Emergency Food and Shelter Program(EFSP). EFSP funds can be used for many different services, including mass shelter, mass feeding, food distribution through food pantries and food banks, one-month assistance with rent, mortgage and utility payments to prevent evictions, and transition assistance from shelters to stable living conditions. The funding is part of a total of $5,290,000 for New York State and an additional $307,271 for the State Set-Aside Program to serve NY areas in need that do not qualify based on regular FEMA standards.
“During these tough economic times, funding this program will give needed food and shelter assistance to struggling families across the Capital Region,” Schumer said. “Increasing access to shelter, food and housing assistance will help keep many Upstate New York families afloat during these tumultuous times. These funds are a prime example of what the Recovery Act can do and one of the many reasons I fought so hard to pass the package. During this season it is more important than ever to feed the hungry and house our most vulnerable families.”
"During these tough economic times, it's important that we maintain a support system for the New York families who need it most," said Senator Gillibrand. "Food and housing assistance programs are a lifeline for many families in the Capital Region. These federal dollars provide food for their tables and a roof over their heads. I will continue to work with Senator Schumer and the New York Congressional Delegation to ensure New York continues to receive these critical funds."
Click here for more information.
“During these tough economic times, funding this program will give needed food and shelter assistance to struggling families across the Capital Region,” Schumer said. “Increasing access to shelter, food and housing assistance will help keep many Upstate New York families afloat during these tumultuous times. These funds are a prime example of what the Recovery Act can do and one of the many reasons I fought so hard to pass the package. During this season it is more important than ever to feed the hungry and house our most vulnerable families.”
"During these tough economic times, it's important that we maintain a support system for the New York families who need it most," said Senator Gillibrand. "Food and housing assistance programs are a lifeline for many families in the Capital Region. These federal dollars provide food for their tables and a roof over their heads. I will continue to work with Senator Schumer and the New York Congressional Delegation to ensure New York continues to receive these critical funds."
Click here for more information.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
"From: June O’Neill, State Chair, New York State Democratic Committee
Tuesday, Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand was sworn into the United States Senate to fill Secretary of State Clinton's vacant seat. Her selection ensures that New York Democrats will continue to be well served by smart, effective and progressive leadership in the Washington.
"Kirsten has a proven record of delivering for the New Yorkers she has represented..." For more from June O'Neil click here.
Also check out "Getting to know our new Senator" from the Glens Falls Post-Star.
Tuesday, Congresswoman Kirsten Gillibrand was sworn into the United States Senate to fill Secretary of State Clinton's vacant seat. Her selection ensures that New York Democrats will continue to be well served by smart, effective and progressive leadership in the Washington.
"Kirsten has a proven record of delivering for the New Yorkers she has represented..." For more from June O'Neil click here.
Also check out "Getting to know our new Senator" from the Glens Falls Post-Star.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
