Erie County Legislator Lindsay Lorigo is pleased to announce half a million dollars in funding for the Springville Center for the Arts. The money, secured through Erie County, will ensure that plans for the Arts Center can proceed.
“The Center for the Arts is a treasured part of the community. Visitors go there to enjoy live music and art exhibitions. They also have the opportunity to participate in workshops. This half million-dollar investment will allow them to build out the stage, dressing rooms and gallery,” said Legislator Lorigo.
The Center has been a key asset to the region for decades. The investment will ensure the Center can expand on the programs and shows that they bring to southern Erie County.
“This money secured for improvements and expansion is vital to the operations of the Springville Center for the Arts. This will allow them to continue to serve Springville and the surrounding communities for generations to come,” concluded Legislator Lorigo.
Erie County Legislator Lindsay Lorigo spoke out in favor of a resolution calling on Governor Hochul and state lawmakers to increase funding to address maintenance of local infrastructure. The Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS) is a New York State program that provides funding to counties, towns and villages for the construction and repair of highways, bridges, and other facilities. It has proven to be a critical funding source for localities.
“My district encompasses 8 towns and two villages. These communities rely on CHIPS funding to ensure the roads are properly maintained. Without an increase, it’s very difficult for our local highway departments to do the necessary repairs and construction. We need to do what’s necessary to ensure the safety of the traveling public,” said Legislator Lorigo.
Inflation and other economic issues have driven up the cost of construction materials in recent years, but Governor Hochul’s proposed 2026 fiscal year budget does not account for those increases. The New York State Association of Town Superintendents of Highways is requesting the State Legislature increase the CHIPS funding by $250 million.
“Our infrastructure needs to be properly maintained. The only way to do that is by providing local governments with the proper funding so they can do the work. The Governor and state legislature need to address this,” said Legislator Lorigo.
A resolution passed in the Erie County Legislature on February 6, calling on the state to act accordingly by increasing CHIPS funding in the 2026 fiscal year budget.
