Mayor Walsh Says Renew 81 Cost Taxpayers Money, Caused Needless Delay

Published on February 02, 2024

Statement by Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh on State Supreme Court Appellate Division, Fourth Department Rejection of “Renew 81 for All” Petition Regarding New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) Interstate 81 Project:

“The Fourth Department determined what was plainly clear from the beginning of the Renew 81 For All petition: NYSDOT completed the required ‘hard look’ in its environmental review of the Interstate 81 project. Not unlike the wasted year re-studying a tunnel option, this lawsuit cost taxpayers a lot of money and caused needless delays. For better health, stronger neighborhoods, and improved transportation, it’s time to move full speed ahead with all aspects of the Community Grid plan.”