When will the next State five-year transportation capital program be reauthorized?

The State's current five-year transportation program expires on March 31, 2026. The timing and structure of the next program - whether a new multi-year authorization or a short-term extension - will depend on several key factors, including: the overall condition of the State and national economy; reauthorization and implementation of the federal surface transportation program, which accounts for nearly 40 percent of total transportation infrastructure funding in New York; and changes in federal policy, including eligible transportation activities and funding flexibility. Together, these variables will significantly influence the State's approach to capital planning and investment decisions.

How does one go about getting a transportation project funded in New York State?

There is no single mechanism for securing transportation funding in New York State. Successfully advancing a project typically requires a coordinated series of steps, including: Identifying an eligible public-sector project sponsor, which in many cases will also be responsible for managing project funds. Ensuring the project aligns with State priorities, such as safety, economic development, accessibility, resilience, and climate goals. Confirming the proposed activity is eligible for funding and identifying the appropriate State or federal categorical program. Ensuring the project is included in a public capital plan and, where applicable, a Metropolitan Planning Organization's Transportation Improvement Program (TIP). Projects that progress through these steps are best positioned for State and federal funding consideration.

What types of projects are most successful in receiving State and/or federal funds?

New York's transportation programs support a broad range of projects benefiting individuals of all ages and abilities. Eligible activities include roads and bridges; bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure; public recreational trails; freight rail projects; commercial, business, and general aviation airport improvements; and public transportation rolling stock, passenger amenities, and facilities. Across all modes, the most successful projects typically demonstrate: a clear and realistic scope and cost estimate; project readiness, including environmental review underway or complete; identification of required local matching funds; and clear ownership and control of necessary rights-of-way.

Can your experts help with forecasting future State and federal funding resources?

Yes. While past performance is not a guarantee of future results, our advisors bring decades of experience analyzing State and federal financial and capital planning documents. Key resources - including New York State's comprehensive quarterly financial plans and capital program and financing plans provide critical insight into fiscal conditions, revenue trends, investment priorities, and potential risks. These documents form a solid foundation for informed funding forecasts and long-term strategic planning.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Expertise Dedicated to Advancing Transportation and Infrastructure Solutions

Ron Epstein

Senior Advisor

With more than 30 years of experience in multimodal transportation and infrastructure planning, policy, legislation, and finance in New York State, Ron Epstein advises a diverse portfolio of transportation-sector clients on navigating the State’s complex legislative, budgetary, and regulatory landscape.

During his tenure with New York State, Ron helped develop and implement transformational, multi-year gubernatorial capital investment programs; secure and structure State and federal funding for large-scale priority projects; and align critical infrastructure investments at both the State and local levels with long-term energy, climate, and economic development goals.

Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA)

NYS Department of Transportation (DOT)

NYS Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV)

NYS Thruway Authority

How We Support Clients

Our transportation and infrastructure advisors deliver a strategic, solutions-driven approach to working with State, federal, and local infrastructure owners and stakeholders to achieve measurable results.
Our team provides unparalleled guidance rooted in decades of firsthand experience and a deep understanding of public-sector rules, processes, and regulatory frameworks.
Our experts help clients directly engage State agencies and public authorities on transportation and infrastructure legislative, policy, regulatory, and financial matters.
We also help clients build and sustain valued relationships and a meaningful presence with State agencies, public authorities, and policymakers.

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Why Clients Choose Us

Unmatched State-Level Expertise: Decades of senior experience inside New York State government provide clients with insight that cannot be replicated.
Proven Results on Complex Projects: We help advance large-scale, high-priority transportation and infrastructure initiatives from concept through funding and delivery.
Trusted Access and Relationships: Clients benefit from established credibility and relationships across agencies, authorities, and decision-makers.
Strategic Alignment: We ensure infrastructure investments align with legislative priorities, budget realities, climate goals, and long-term economic development strategies.

Contact us to learn more on how Ostroff Associates' transportation advisory team can help you.

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Expertise Dedicated to Advancing Transportation and Infrastructure Solutions

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