March 3, 2014 Hon. Dean G.

Skelos Senate Republican Leader 330 State Capitol Building Albany, New York 12247 Dear Leader Skelos: I write in support of a request recently submitted to my office by the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce seeking $26.3 million for necessary repair, renovation and enhancement work at Exit 4 off Interstate 87. This exit is a critical arterial connector that spans the intersection of Albany Shaker and Wolf Road both of which are heavily traveled and anchor many small businesses and serves as a conduit to Albany International Airport. This requested funding will significantly enhance the experience of motorists traveling to the Albany International Airport and also facilitate improved access to local small businesses located at or near Exit 4. As the principal air center for the Capital Region, Northeastern New York and Western New England, Albany International Airport has completed a multi-million dollar capital redevelopment project and embarked on a five-year $232 million Capital Plan to improve and maintain safety and to meet the needs of air travelers and air carriers. The requested $26.3 million in funding will further support repair and renovation work that is ongoing at Exit 4. In addition to receiving the strong support of the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce, this requested renovation and repair project funding is also supported by the respective Chambers of Commerce from every County across the greater Capital Region. As our deliberations on the 2014-15 State Budget continue, I ask that this request for $26.3 million for repair, renovation and enhancement at Exit 4 off Interstate 87 receive careful consideration for inclusion in the final 2014-15 State Budget. Thank you. Very truly yours,

Kathleen A. Marchione New York State Senator, 43rd District

cc:

Senator Carl Marcellino, Chairman, Senate Committee on Infrastructure and Capital Investment
Robert Mujica, Secretary, Senate Finance Committee