Bill > S02101

This bill amends the canal law to modify how bridges over the canal system are maintained, with a specific focus on ensuring that these bridges do not impede commercial motor vehicles. The legislation changes existing language that previously gave the commissioner of transportation discretion to maintain bridges based on public convenience. Now, the bill requires that bridges be reconstructed, improved, maintained, and repaired in a way that specifically does not obstruct commercial motor vehicles, which are defined in the transportation law. The bill also adds a requirement for at least one public hearing before closing or removing a bridge, giving local communities an opportunity to provide input. Additionally, the bill updates gender-neutral language by replacing gendered pronouns with more general terms like "such commissioner." The changes aim to improve transportation infrastructure and ensure that bridges over the canal system can accommodate commercial traffic effectively, potentially supporting economic activities that rely on these transportation routes.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2101