Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that the Town of Amherst has been awarded $7 million in funding for the Peanut Line Project!
Assemblymember Karen McMahon, who has championed the Peanut Line Project through the state legislature, said, “The announced $7 million in funding for the Peanut Line in Amherst marks a significant milestone in a years-long effort to transform an abandoned rail line into an accessible biking and walking trail through the heart of our community, connecting with other trails throughout Western New York.”
The awards were made available through the Federal Highway Administration’s Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and are being administered by the New York State Department of Transportation. The Transportation Alternatives Program supports transportation-related projects that advance New York State’s commitment to a safe, accessible and connected transportation system. Funded projects include safe routes to schools, sidewalk improvements, pedestrian and bicycle safety enhancements, improved access to public transportation, and trailway networks.
We acknowledge the recent efforts of former town councilmember Jacqui Berger for moving the project forward during her tenure, and to former town supervisor Dan Ward, who more than 30 years ago had the bold vision to include the trail project in the town’s 1992 Bicycle Plan. Thanks to all who have kept this vision alive, the Amherst Peanut Line’s time has come.