Press Releases

Bipartisan Infrastructure Award Aimed At Preventing Roadway Collisions

WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Tim Kennedy (NY-26) announced $323,850 in federal funding. provided through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to the New York State Department of Transportation, to help prevent vehicle collisions with wildlife.

“Many Western New Yorkers know all too well the dangers that come with close encounters and car accidents related to wildlife,” said Congressman Kennedy. “Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this funding will identify strategies to mitigate these incidents and improve safety for vehicle drivers and passengers in Western New York and across the state.” 

The Wildlife Crossings Program was established under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to address the alarming rate of wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs) on U.S. roadways. According to the Department of Transportation (USDOT), each year, over one million wildlife-vehicle collisions result in hundreds of fatalities, tens of thousands of serious injuries, and costs exceeding $8 billion. 

This $323,850 grant is provided through the Federal Highway Administration, to the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT), for a statewide planning study to identify hotspots, map potential habitat improvement zones, and develop standardized procedures to incorporate wildlife connectivity into NYSDOT's policies and practices. 

A recent report released by the AAA Western and Central New York, found that in 2023 alone, 35,481 animal-related crashes took place across the state—equivalent to one crash every 15 minutes—with 1,547 resulting in injuries and nine fatalities. Such incidents are particularly common in the fall months, peaking from October to December, with deer being a primary cause.  

Prior to serving in Congress, Tim represented Western New York in the New York State Senate, where he chaired the Transportation Committee. As Chair, he passed legislation to protect children riding on school buses, workers in highway work zones and pedestrians and cyclists across New York State.

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