2011 Schumer Memo

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    Nassau and suffolk

    Proposed new LIRR Passenger Bill of Rights: LIRR commuters have been plaguedby numerous service disruptions during their daily commutes. In April, poorlyscheduled Amtrak construction disrupted LIRR trains for nearly three hours. Tens ofthousands of evening commuters were stranded on the first night of Passover. InOctober, LIRR trains were delayed because of a lightning strike that caused signalproblems at the Jamaica station. In this instance, seven trains were left idling betweenstations, causing some commuters to self-evacuate onto the tracks. Schumer called onthe LIRR to create a commuters bill of rights. On the heels of Schumers request, theLIRR drafted a pledge to its commuters. The 8-point pledge includes a promise torespond quickly during a service outage, to offer water on idling trains, have a better

    communication system put in place, let commuters off at stations if possible, and givecommuters a time-frame of when the problem will be resolved.

    Secured first-ever LI Expressway Road Safety Audit that exposed major safety

    problems for Nassau Police officers: At the request of Schumer, a 43-page roadsafety assessment was released in October by the U.S. Federal HighwayAdministration and the NYS Department of Transportation. Schumer requested thisstudy after Officer Michael Califano was tragically killed along the Long IslandExpressway during a routine traffic stop. At least 25 other officers had been thevictims of similar incidents along the Long Island Expressway before OfficerCalifanos tragic accident. Schumer wrote to the Federal Highway Administration, aswell as the New York State Department of Transportation urging them to conduct aRoad Safety Audit in conjunction with the Nassau County Police Benevolent

    Long Island

    National and Legislative accomplishments

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    Senator Schumers 62 County Tour

    Association. The safety assessment called for better lighting, reflectors on guide rails and barriers, as well as the creation ofemergency pull-off areas. Schumer is pushing for the implementation of these findings in 2012.

    Successfully defeated a House GOP proposal that would have gutted funding for East Side Access and Second Avenue

    Subway: Under the House version of the FY 2012 Transportation/HUD appropriations bill, funding for East Side Access wouldhave been cut by 47% from the Presidents $215 million request and 21% would have been cut from the $197 million requested bythe President for the Second Avenue Subway. Schumer fought these proposed cuts in conference and restored funding to ensurethese projects will not be ground to a halt, a major win for Long Island commuters. The East Side Access Project, a joint federal-state effort, is a rail link from the LIRR, via the 63rd Street Tunnel, to Grand Central Terminal that will help tens of thousands ofNassau, Suffolk commuters save up to 30-40 minutes on their daily commutes. The project will also free up much needed capacityat Penn Station, alleviating what have become almost routine train delays. The Second Avenue Subway project is intended to easecongestion on the Lexington Avenue line, the most crowded subway line in the nation, by constructing a two-track line connecting

    125th Street to the Financial District in Manhattan as well as a connection from Second Avenue through the 63rd Street tunnel toexisting tracks in West Midtown and Brooklyn. Schumer worked with House and Senate negotiators to preserve nearly all of thefunding for these two projects: $203,424,000 for East Side Access, and $186,566,000 for the Second Avenue Subway. Schumer hasalso fought to secure an additional $2.2 billion in unused railroad funds, through the Railroad Rehabilitation & ImprovementFinancing program (RRIF), forfeited by New Jerseys rejection of the Access to the Regions Core (ARC) tunnel project to coverany remaining costs of the project.

    Helped establish $500,000 seed fund for Accelerate LI Jobs Program: Schumer convened a meeting in January between leadersfrom Stony Brook University, Brookhaven National Laboratory, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and urged the leaders to form aregional innovation cluster that would focus on commercializing technologies coming out of Long Islands major research

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    institutions. Partnering with the Long Island Associations Accelerate Long Island organization, Schumers efforts led to the first-ever showcase of technologies from BNL, SBU, CSHL, North Shore LIJ and Hofstra University at two major events with localinvestors. Designed to bring technologies developed on Long Island to market by introducing patent holders to investors for the

    purposes of commercialization on the Island to spur local job growth, Schumer also secured the establishment of a $500,000emerging technologies seed fund by local investors Mark Fasciano of Canrock Ventures and David Calone of Jove EquityPartners. The fund is expected to grow to $1 million by 2012 and hopefully create more than a dozen companies. The fund wasannounced at a major event at the Cradle of Aviation in Museum, showcasing numerous plans from scientists involved inAccelerate Long Island, as well as other proposals.

    Saved American Air Power Museum from demolition at Republic Airport: Schumer announced that the American AirpowerMuseum at Republic Airport had been saved from demolition from the FAAs runway safety program. After Schumer andCongressman Steve Israel drafted language for the FAA reauthorization bill to allow funds to be used for the relocation an existingairport facility, the FAA conceded in a letter to Schumer and said, the FAA does not have the legal authority to compel the[airport] to demolish the structure. Additionally, the FAA reversed itself and made clear that federal funds could in fact be used,under the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), to relocate the structure. The Museum is an historic structure representing LongIslands manufacturing legacy and is currently dedicated to honoring the service of Americas veterans.

    Saved 1,000 jobs at Brookhaven National Lab and secured full funding for NSLS 2 Construction: In February, SenatorSchumer announced that the House budget cuts would force Brookhaven National Lab to lay off 930 scientists, as well as otherstaff. The House Budget Committee proposed billions of dollars of cuts to science and energy funds. Schumer urged HouseChairmen Ryan and Rogers, explaining the importance of Brookhaven National Lab to our nation. Schumer urged the chairman toreconsider the proposed cuts. Under the compromise plan pushed by Schumer and passed in Congress, only $35 million was cutfrom the Office of Science, saving 1,000 jobs at Brookhaven National Lab. Senator Schumers push helped save numerous projectsfrom being cut, including: the National Synchrotron Light Source, the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider, and research into alternativeand sustainable energy.

    Secured reimbursement funds for Bay Park Treatment Plant: Schumer delivered $11 million in EPA reimbursement fundsowed to Nassau County to be used for critical infrastructure upgrades at the Bay Park Treatment Plant. In the 1980s, Nassau Countywas awarded sewer grants for multi-million dollar upgrades to the Cedar Creek and Bay Park wastewater treatment plants.Although the County completed the work, Nassau was never reimbursed by the EPA. In November of 2010, Schumer renewed his

    call to issue $20 million in unpaid EPA sewer funds to fix a sludge problem flowing from the Bay Park Treatment Plant toReynolds Channel. Schumer wrote to the EPA administrator Lisa Jackson urging the EPA to return the EPA funds to NassauCounty. Schumer said that the funding would help Nassau County complete sewer upgrades, as well as reduce the tax burden onlocal residents.

    Secured restitution from NOAA For excessive fishing fines: A report by the Commerce Department found that funds obtainedthrough unwarranted fines levied against fisherman by Fisheries enforcement agents were improperly used to purchase vehicles,boats, and international travel for employees of the Northeast Region. Schumer pushed the National Oceanic and AtmosphericAdministration to return the proceeds to the fund and fishermen who were excessively fined. Schumer wrote to NOAAadministrator, Dr. Jane Lubchenco, urging her to immediately freeze spending of AFF money and conduct a thorough investigationto determine if this money was collected appropriately and if any should be returned to fishermen. In May, NOAA announced theywould be waiving fines and would provide restitution for numerous fishermen who were fined over the last several years by roguefisheries enforcement agents in the Northeast Region. Aggers Fishing Company, one of the New York companies that Schumer

    fought for, received $160,000 in restitution.

    Secured language in Senate National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) reauthorization bill to protect Nassau residents from

    inaccurate flood maps: Two years ago, FEMA mapped the residents of the Village of Valley Stream, in Nassau County, into thespecial flood hazard area using data that was not specific to the community. As a result, residents have been forced to pay f loodinsurance premiums ranging anywhere from $300 to $2,000 per year. Schumer was able to secure language in the Senate BankingCommittees floodinsurance reauthorization bill that would require FEMA to use local data that is specific to the community whenpreparing its flood maps and to revise maps that were found to be noncompliant with the local data requirement. Furthermore,Schumer was able to secure language in the bill that would fully reimburse those who were incorrectly determined to be in a specialflood hazard area.

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    Renamed Lynbrook Post Office in honor of Navy Corpsman Jeffrey L. Weiner: On July 22, Lynbrook Post Office wasrenamed for Navy Corpsman Jeffrey Wiener. In 2005, Navy Corpsman Jeffrey Wiener, was killed in an ambush and bombing in

    Haditha. Previously, he was a member of the Lynbrook Fire Department and was a Nassau County EMT for the Fire Department.Senator Schumer, with Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy, introduced and passed legislation to rename the post office.

    Successfully Lobbied Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba.com to Remove Counterfeited Daddario Gutiar Strings: AfterSchumers urging at the Farmingdale-based Daddario Guitar String Factory, Alibaba.com removed 421 ads for counterfeitedDaddario guitar strings. Daddario is one of the oldest and most successful guitar string manufacturers in the world, employingover 800 people in their Long Island plant and headquarters. The company supplies guitar strings and other accessories to majormusicians across the world. Though the company produces about half a million guitar strings each day, the Chinese counterfeitoperation had been costing Daddario millions of dollars of sales each year.

    Expedited benefit applications for 100 Long Island veterans: Schumer secured expedited benefit applications for 100 LongIsland Veterans after their applications were never forwarded from the Nassau County Veterans Services to the VA office. Theclaims included widows benefits and health care benefits; some even dated back to 2005. Because of the error, many veterans didnot receive the benefits they were entitled to. Schumer wrote a letter to VA Secretary Erick Shinseki urging him to make sure thateach of these veterans received the full measure of benefits they deserve, retroactive to the date when they first submitted theirclaims. In August, VA Secretary Shinseki announced that the New York Regional Office had contacted the Nassau CountyVeterans Services Administration Director to obtain a complete list of the Veterans affected. Their claims will be expeditiouslyprocessed and be provided with appropriate assistance.

    Secured Army Corps commitment to dredge Lake Montauk: Schumer and Rep. Bishop wrote a letter to the Army Corps ofEngineers (ACOE) requesting that they expedite their dredging schedule. Originally, the ACOE was planning on starting thedredging process in 2013 to coincide with their fiscal cycle. Beginning the dredging in 2013 would, overall, hurt the local economy.In their letter, Schumer and Bishop also requested that the Army Corps investigate the possibility of using sand from the dredgingto address imperiled structures west of the Lake in front of Soundview Drive and Captain Kidds Path in Montauk that arethreatened because of worsening erosion. Schumer and Bishop announced that the ACOE had agreed to allocate $1.1 million todredge Lake Montauk in September 2011. Additionally, the ACOE agreed to continue their feasibility study to explore thepossibility of dredging a deeper channel accommodate larger fishing vessels. For this study, they allocated an additional $172,000.

    Prevented Aqua New York Water tower in Wantagh: Homeowners opposed the 150 foot water tower at a community meetingand also sent Schumers office a petition signed with over 700 names opposing the project. Residents were concerned that thestructure would lower property values. Schumer wrote Long Island American Water, the parent company of Aqua, urging them towork with the community to evaluate all potential options to improve water pressure in the Wantagh area. Schumer also urgedAmerican Water to continue their tradition of proactive and transparent community relations in their handling of this project . AquaNew York President, Mike Snyder, announced that they will be withdrawing their application to build the 150-foot water tower.

    Passed Amendment in Senate to regulate helicopter flight regulations: For years, Long Islands north shore has been plaguedwith helicopter noise. In March, Schumer announced that he successfully included an amendment into the FAA ReauthorizationBill, which passed in the Senate. The amendment would provide a deadline for the FAA to implement helicopter flight regulationswithin 12 months. It would also provide legal authority to the FAA to implement helicopter flight regulations.

    Secured EPA Oversight of Toxic Bethpage Plume: Following a Schumer-led effort for the Navy to conduct a new study of theclean-up policy at the miles wide toxic Bethpage plume, the Senator secured a commitment for EPA oversight of theimplementation of a new clean-up and monitoring plan. The plume affects the water for hundreds of thousands of Nassau residentsin the Bethpage, Farmingdale and Massapequa areas.

    Secured vital funding for first responders: More and more every year, local fire departments find themselves strapped for cashand having to cut corners while still maintaining an adequate and well-prepared fire fighting force. Schumer was among the firstsenators to recognize the need for the federal government to establish a funding program for local governments and fire depar tmentsto help defray the rising costs of fire prevention. In 2011, Schumer secured over $2.5 million for fire departments in Long I sland,including over $707,000 for the East Rockaway Fire Department and $96,780 for the New Hyde Park Fire Department.

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    Sullivan, Ulster, Dutchess, Orange,

    Putnam, Rockland, and Westchester

    Ensured upgrade to C-17 to bring new life to Stewart Air National Guard: ThisJuly, Stewart Air National Guard received its first of 8 expected C-17 cargo and trooptransport aircraft to replace the Vietnam era C-5 Galaxy. Schumer pushed to have thenew planes stationed in Newburgh. The new mission will keep Stewart InternationalAirport and the Hudson Valley on the leading edge of airborne military technologyand our national defense.

    Urged CSX and Dyson Foundation to work together for land property sale for

    Dutchess County Rail Trail: Senator Schumer urged CSX to work with DysonFoundation to negotiate in good faith for the sale of property which would connect

    the walkway over the Hudson with the Dutchess County rail trail. With Schumershelp, CSX and the Dyson Foundation came to an agreement which allowed thepurchasing of property to connect the two walkways to make a county-wide trail forresidents.

    Lobbied Pepsi CEO and Secured 1,200 jobs for 5 more years at Hudson Valley

    headquarters: Schumer continually pressed PepsiCo, Inc leadership to keep theirheadquarters inside the approximately 540,000 square foot facility in Somers. InMarch, PepsiCo, Inc. announced it would continue to locate their headquarters inWestchester for an additional five years. The decision means that the 1,200 jobsassociated with the companys headquarters will remain in the Hudson Valley, withgreat potential to attract even more jobs and economic opportunity.

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    Senator Schumers 62 County Tour

    Ronald Agard receives Purple Heart after being denied by the VA: Schumer worked with Veterans Director of RocklandCounty, Jerry Donnellen to ask the VA to reconsider its decision on the denial of Agards Purple Heart. Sgt. Ronald Agard had beendenied due to his condition of TBI which was not recognized by the VA as worthy of the medal. The VA reversed its decision andnow recognizes Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) as a worthy condition for the Purple Heart Medal.

    Successfully pushed for Presidential Disaster Declaration, in wake of record breaking storms Irene and Lee: WithoutSchumers diligence the aftermath of Tropical Storms Irene and Lee would still plague hard hit Dutchess, Orange, Putnam,Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester Counties which were included in the Presidents declaration. Schumers efforts helpeddeliver $163M in disaster aid for emergency services, road and infrastructure repair, and debris removal across New York State.Schumers direct push to President Obama also helped deliver $148M in assistance for individuals to repair their homes and he lpsmall businesses recover. Schumers work also helped secure over $100 million in Small Business Administration funding.Additionally, Schumer was the first to call on FEMA to deploy temporary housing units for those displaced by Tropical StormsIrene and Lee.

    Secured over $1 million for lead hazard awareness education and prevention: This year Schumer helped secure a HealthyHomes and Lead Hazard Control grant of $1,749,639 from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) forWestchester County. These federal funds will allow Westchester County to continue providing services to reduce lead-based painthazards throughout the County and implement a new marketing campaign with additional activities to attract more propertyowners. The County will evaluate 230 homes for lead hazards, eliminate lead hazards in 215 homes, conduct outreachand education for 5 events, and provide training to 50 individuals.

    Extended lease for Homes for Heroes: Homes for Heroes was in a short term lease with the Department of Health and HumanServices in order to start construction on homes for veterans. Schumer helped to secure $1 million in investments to start bu ilding

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    homes for homeless veterans throughout the Hudson Valley at former Camp Shanks and pushed to extend that lease to allowbuilding to be completed within the deadline.

    Secured $4 million for New York Medical College to construct biotech incubator: Schumer supported NYMC in theirapplication to revamp former lab space to make it the home of a new biotech laboratory which will have a shared resource facility fordrug development, business formation and development and equipment.

    Helped Chester Lubickreceive long-denied Purple Heart: Schumer worked with World War II veteran Chester Lubick ofBlauvelt in Rockland County, to receive a Purple Heart earned more than 60 years ago. Mr. Lubick fought in the Battle of the Bulgein 1944, and was subsequently injured while a prisoner of war outside of Nuremberg, Germany. Mr. Lubick had tried for severalyears to obtain the Purple Heart, to no avail. Schumer was finally able to cut through the red tape and get him the recognition hedeserved. Schumer presented the Purple Heart to Mr. Lubick in January.

    Secured unused Army shed for Town of New Windsor: At Schumers urging, the U.S. Army transferredcontrol of an unusedshed over to the town so that they can store Department of Homeland Security emergency and natural disaster response equipment ina secure, covered location that is easily accessible to first responders and law enforcement. The no-cost transfer will result in severalhundred thousand dollars saved for town taxpayers.

    Successful raids and Schumer urging lead to High Intensity Drug Trafficking area designation for Orange County: ThisFebruary Schumer congratulated FBI Special Agent James Galiano on a successful raid that resulted in criminal charges for 10members of the Latin Kings gang in Newburgh. Local, state, and federal law enforcement collaborated on yesterdays raid thatcomes after an aggressive effort by Schumer to focus federal law enforcement resources on the growing gang problem in the area. Asa result, murdering and racketeering charges will be filed against members of the gang, which is notorious for peddling drugs on thestreets of Newburgh. This success, coupled with over a year of phone calls, meetings and personal appeals to R. Gil Kerlikowske,Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, helped Orange County secure the federal High Intensity Drug TraffickingArea (HIDTA) designation Schumer requested. This designation will enhance coordination of federal, state and local lawenforcement agencies by providing equipment, technology and additional resources to combat the drug trafficking on which thesegangs thrive. The City of Newburgh will soon receive new tools to combat the drug crime and gang violence.

    Secured almost $1 million for volunteer firefighter tuition assistance program in Hudson Valley: In March, Schumer helped

    secure badly needed funding from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to help Vails Gate Fire Department in OrangeCounty recruit volunteer firefighters. At Schumers urging, DHS granted $980,080 for Vails Gate Fire Department. These federa lfunds will allow the Vails Gate Fire Department to offer college tuition assistance as an incentive to attract new talented members, toretain experienced members and to encourage high school and college age dependents to volunteer. Over a four year period, thesefunds allow for 17 new volunteer recruits and college tuition assistance to 27 existing members and eligible family members.

    Opened door for Casino in the Catskills:At Schumers urging with meetings, phone calls and letters, the Department of Interior(DOI) overturned blanket ban on off reservation gaming. Due to widespread community support, Schumer had long been supportiveof the previously-made applications to build gaming facilities in the Catskills. He lobbied Secretary Salazar and Bureau of IndianAffairs head Larry EchoHawk in phone calls, letters and meetings, asking them to overturn the precedent set by former InteriorSecretary Dirk Kempthorne. Though barriers still remain, this groundbreaking action by DOI removes what was an insurmountablehurdle on the path to a Catskills casino. This opens the door for applications to build casinos in the Catskills, which have enjoyedbroad support because they can create jobs and new economic opportunities for upstate New Yorkers in one of our states most

    economically challenged areas.

    Promoted Newburgh as the new home for FBI regional office: Schumer urged FBI Director Robert Mueller to station the FBIregional office in the Hudson Valley. During the past two years, the FBI has been active in the Newburgh area, heading up a t askforce with city and state police, sheriffs and other federal agencies including the Drug Enforcement Agency that has targeted gangand drug-related activity and led to nearly 100 arrests, many on federal conspiracy and murder charges. This already strongpartnership makes Newburgh the ideal location for the regional office.

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    Highland Falls funding fix included in Senate ESEA Reauthorization: Schumer successfully included a permanent fix in theElementary and Secondary Education Reauthorization Act (ESEA) of 2011 for the chronically low funding received by the HighlandFalls-Fort Montgomery School District. The school district is approximately 93% exempt from property taxation due to wholly

    exempt federal- and state-owned land. Highland Falls, therefore, has a very small tax base and has been drastically and constantlyshortchanged by the state and federal government. The permanent fix was included in the Impact Aid section of the reauthorizationbill, which provides compensation to local school districts for local revenue lost due to the presence of federally owned property andcosts incurred due to "federally connected" students, such as the children of armed services personnel working at a nearby militarybase.

    Secured $1.1 million for education and training for Dutchess County youth and young adults: This May, Schumer helpedsecure $1.1 million for the Nubian Directions II for the purpose of developing high quality workforce skills for youth and adults.This Department of Labor YouthBuild Grant funding will enable the Poughkeepsie based organization to divide time betweenconstruction sites, computers and the classroom to get young people ready to join the workforce. Training and service opportunitieslike the ones provided at Nubian Directions II through these YouthBuild Grants will help Poughkeepsie residents achieve economicself-sufficiency, through occupations that are both in high demand, and meaningful to the community.

    Secured vital funding for first responders: More and more every year, local fire departments find themselves strapped for cashand having to cut corners while still maintaining an adequate and well-prepared fire fighting force. Schumer was among the firstsenators to recognize the need for the federal government to establish a funding program for local governments and fire depar tmentsto help defray the rising costs of fire prevention. In 2011, Schumer secured $44,660 for Rockland Paramedic Services to purchaseportable CO detectors.

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    Fulton, Saratoga, Washington,

    Montgomery, Schoharie, Albany,

    Rensselaer, Greene, Columbia, andSchenectady

    With long-standing support, secured DOE funding for SEMATCH and CNSE:Schumers push for UAlbanys SEMATECH-CNSE application, the group has beenawarded $57.5 million in federal grants from the Department of Energy (DOE). Thisfunding will allow SEMATECH-CNSE to form a new photovoltaic manufacturingconsortium with support from the Department of Energys PhotovoltaicManufacturing Initiative. With this federal funding, the partnership can massivelyincrease the United States share of the photovoltaic technology and products market,and potentially create millions of jobs over the next decade

    Uncovered historical documents to reopen case for WWI Hero and Albany

    resident Henry Johnsons long overdue Medal of Honor: Schumer revealednewevidence that dramatically strengthens Sgt. Henry Johnson's case for the Medal ofHonor. Schumer called on the U.S. Army to reopen Johnson's case for a Medal ofHonor in light of the never before considered evidence. Of particular significance is amemo from General John Pershing, the World War I Army Commander in Chief,which details Henry Johnson's bravery and self-sacrifice during the May 1918 fight.This document is critical to Johnson's case because receiving the Medal of Honorrequires a chain-of command endorsement, and Johnson's previous awardrecommendation was lacking this vital piece of the puzzle.

    Successfully pushed for Presidential Disaster Declaration, in wake of record

    breaking storms Irene and Lee:Without Schumers diligence the aftermath ofTropical Storms Irene and Lee would still plague hard hit Albany, Columbia, Greene,

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    National and Legislative accomplishments

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    Senator Schumers 62 County Tour

    Montgomery, Rensselaer, Schenectady, Schoharie, and Washington Counties which were included in the Presidents declaration.Schumers efforts helped deliver $163M in disaster aid for emergency services, road and infrastructure repair, and debris removalacross New York State. Schumers direct push to President Obama also helped deliver $148M in assistance for individuals to repairtheir homes and help small businesses recover. Schumers work also helped secure over $100 million in Small BusinessAdministration funding. Additionally, Schumer was the first to call on FEMA to deploy temporary housing units for those displacedby Tropical Storms Irene and Lee.

    Pushed major high speed rail deal and secured $58 million for Schenectady Station: With Schumers help, necessary

    agreements have been reached between CSX, Amtrak, NYSDOT, and the Federal Railway Administration (FRA) to move forward

    with rail projects across the Capital Region. CSX, Amtrak, NYSDOT and FRA had yet to complete the essential land and track

    leasing, operating and management, dispatching and right-of-way maintenance, implementing, and service outcomes. After

    Schumer pushed the parties to sign off on these agreements, a deal was reached that will now allow nearly $150 million to be

    obligated to high speed rail projects including the construction of a second main track between Albany and Schenectady.Additionally, Schumers personal appeal to transportation Secretary Ray LaHood ensured $58 million in high speed rail funding for

    the Empire Corridor, promoting projects that include replacing the Schenectady Station and constructing a fourth station track at the

    Albany-Rensselaer Station. These projects and others will go a long way towards improving reliability, speed and frequency there

    and throughout the Empire Corridor. Train travel is the superhighway of the future and, thanks to Schumers efforts, UpstateNew

    York will have the essential infrastructure in place to support a robust and efficient high speed rail network.

    After personal appeal, secured over $400,000 for Greater Hudson Promise Neighborhood: After a personal letter to education

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    Secretary Arne Duncan, Schumer secured $408,137 for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Albany from Department of EducationPromise Neighborhoods Implementation Grants Program for the Greater Hudson Promise Neighborhood. The federal funding willaddress the needs of children within the Hudson City School District (HCSD). With two of the four schools identified as persistently

    low performing and a graduation rate of 59%, the children and families need answers, solutions and hope. Their school reform visionfocuses on increasing graduation rates, participation in school activities, test scores, and performance outcomes. Working Groups,advisory boards, and a fundraising team will work actively with local leaders, residents, and expert consultants to carefully collect,organize, and process real and current data. The grant will also help promote school readiness, successful transitions to adulthood,skillful parenting, access to health care (including mental health), and an environment where youth are encouraged to participate inthe arts and humanities.

    Secured over $3 million for lead hazard awareness education and prevention: This year Schumer helped secure a HealthyHomes and Lead Hazard Control grant of $3,212,641 from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the Cityof Schenectady. These federal funds will allow the City to continue providing services to reduce lead-based paint hazards throughoutSchenectady and implement a new marketing campaign with additional activities to attract more property owners. The City willevaluate 250 homes for lead hazards, eliminate lead hazards in 225 homes, conduct outreach and education for 2,000 people, andprovide training to 30 individuals.

    Alerted CPSC to the need for XOS technology: Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has approved a new technologymade by XOS that will be used to detect lead and other regulated elements in childrens products. Schumer long fought for strongersafety rules regarding lead in toys and other consumer products, highlighted by the 2008 legislation which he cosponsored to protectchildren by banning lead in childrens products. He also worked hard to push the CPSC to thoroughly investigate new testingtechnology offered by the Capital Regions XOS, to reduce testing costs for industry and thus improve compliance with the newregulations.

    Secured $1 million for Firefighting Research at Skidmore College:Schumer continued to show support for New Yorks firefighters by securing a $999,996 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) administered by the U.S. Department of Homeland Securityto study impact of firefighting on cardiovascular system at Skidmore College. The funding is specifically through a Fire Preventionand Safety grant, which Skidmore College plans to use to scientifically study the impact of heat stress and dehydration on afirefighters cardiovascular health. This includes the firefighters initial call, the act of fire fighting, and the return. This funding willalso go towards disseminating health information to firefighters that results from the study. Schumer highlighted the importance of

    this funding, as cardiovascular events make up 45% of deaths for firefighters in the line of duty, meaning that occurrences such asheart attacks are the number one killer of active firefighters.

    Secured $3.5 million from DOT for Albany International Airport: With this funding for runway and taxi rehabilitation, theairport can make renovations that will ensure passenger safety and the smooth operation of the facility. Albany International Airportis set to receive $3,494,100 in U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) funds for airport facility upgrades. Specifically, the grantwill allow Albany International Airport to rehabilitate a runway, multiple taxiways and the airports cargo Apron. The funding willallow the pavement to be replaced on these surfaces, which will to maintain their structural integrity and increase the overall level ofsafety at Albany International.

    Secured vital funding for first responders: More and more every year, local fire departments find themselves strapped for cashand having to cut corners while still maintaining an adequate and well-prepared fire fighting force. Schumer was among the firstsenators to recognize the need for the federal government to establish a funding program for local governments and fire depar tments

    to help defray the rising costs of fire prevention. In 2010, Schumer secured $483,693for fire departments in the Capital Region,including over $225,000 for the Watervliet Fire Department in Albany County, $211,269 for the Albany Fire Department, and$46,500 for the West Fort Ann Fire Company in Washington County.

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    Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence,

    Hamilton, Franklin, Clinton, Essex,

    and Warren

    Secured over $69,000 HHS grant for Carthage area school-based healthcenters: Schumer secured a $69,548 School-Based Health Center CapitalProgram Grant for $69,548 from the U.S. Department of Health and HumanServices (HHS) for Carthage Area Hospital. existing school-based healthcenters effectiveness through the procurement of new laptops, hardware andelectronic filing software. These time saving steps will allow doctors andnurses to spend more time examining individual students in Carthages school-based clinics.

    Secured $54 million for upgrades at Fort Drum: Senators Schumer andGillibrands urging landed Fort Drum $54 million through the FY 2012National Defense Authorization Act. This funding will include more than $15million for a soldier family care clinic for the Combat Aviation Brigade, $5million for a dental clinic, nearly $6 million for ammunition supply storage,$7.5 million for a new chapel and $20 million for an aircraft maintenancehangar. As a result, this funding could create nearly 400 construction jobs inthe area.

    CES forges agreement with Canadian Border Agency to allow North

    Country anglers easier access to cross-border fishing areas: Schumerplayed a major role in facilitating talks between Canadian and Americanofficials, which produced a new, more streamlined check-in process, wherebyfishermen can call the Canadian Border Security office to report their presence

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    National and Legislative accomplishments

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    Senator Schumers 62 County Tour

    and be approved over the phone. This will ensure competitive and individual fisherman can enjoy our border waters without fear ofCanadian fees.

    Successfully pushed for Presidential Disaster Declaration, in wake of record breaking storms Irene and Lee: WithoutSchumers diligence the aftermath of Tropical Storms Irene and Lee would still plague hard hit Clinton, Essex, and WarrenCounties which were included in the Presidents declaration. Schumers efforts helped deliver $163M in disaster aid for emergencyservices, road and infrastructure repair, and debris removal across New York State. Schumers direct push to President Obama alsohelped deliver $148M in assistance for individuals to repair their homes and help small businesses recover. Schumers work alsohelped secure over $100 million in Small Business Administration funding. Additionally, Schumer was the first to call on FEMA todeploy temporary housing units for those displaced by Tropical Storms Irene and Lee.

    Secured $1.4 million for Plattsburgh International Airport: With Schumers help, the airport will make renovations to ensurepassenger safety and the smooth operation of the facility by replacing existing incandescent lights along taxiway Alpha with an

    energy-efficient light-emitting diode system.

    Kept Trudeau Institute, leading research facility, in Adirondacks:Schumers personal appeals to Trudeau Institutes Dr. DavidWoodland and his promise to aid in establishing partnerships with other New York State clinical research programs helped keep theSaranac Lake institution in its 126 year old home. With Schumers help Trudeau will expand its research capabilities in theAdirondacks and continue research to help families avoid getting sick and to make our men and women serving in uniform saferall while employing hundreds of New Yorkers.

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    Aided creation of Border Enforcement Security Task Force team in Massena to regulate New York- Canadian border:Immigrations and Customs Enforcement operates a series of Border Enforcement Security Task Forces (BEST). The teams consist o f

    personnel from ICE, CBP, tribal police, local, state, and Canadian law enforcement working in concert to improve overall bordersecurity. Given the success of the BEST team in the Buffalo/Niagara region, Schumer pushed for and successfully secured DHScommitment to establish a BEST team to be based in Massena, NY.

    Secured essential funding for Croghan Dam restoration: An important historical landmark in Lewis County, the Croghan Damhad been progressively dismantled by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Schumer helped to secure funding forrestoration of the dam and called on the DEC to work with local and federal officials to save, rather than destroy, the dam. SinceSchumers visit, the DEC has not removed any more logs from the dam.

    Helped secure North Country Chamber of Commerce approval to Form EB-5 Program in Plattsburgh:With Schumerssupport, the North Country EB-5 Regional Center has been accepted by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. The EB-5program allows qualified immigrant investors to receive temporary green cards for their immediate family, in exchange for a$500,000 investment in rural areas, once cleared by thorough background and financial investigations by immigration services. Theprogram will provide a major investment and create jobs in the North Country. Investment projects and enterprises organizedthrough the North Country EB-5 Regional Center will be intended to create permanent jobs within the boundaries of the RegionalCenter and promote business development within the region as a whole.

    Secured vital funding for first responders: More and more every year, local fire departments find themselves strapped for cashand having to cut corners while still maintaining an adequate and well-prepared fire fighting force. Schumer was among the firstsenators to recognize the need for the federal government to establish a funding program for local governments and fire depar tmentsto help defray the rising costs of fire prevention. In 2011, Schumer secured over $700,000 for fire departments in the North Country,including over $100,000 for Massena Fire Department in St. Lawrence County, $54,986 for Floyd Fire Department in Essex County,$55,100 for West Stockholm Volunteer Fire Department in St. Lawrence County, and $77,297 for the Chateaugay Fire Departmentin Franklin County.

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    Cayuga, Onondaga, Oswego, Oneida,

    Cortland, Herkimer, and Madison

    Secured pivotal $10 million TIGER Grant for Connective Corridor: Withsubstantial Schumer urging to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood, SyracuseUniversity and City of Syracuse won $10 million TIGER Grant to ConnectiveCorridor project, connecting the University to downtown Syracuse. This plan willrevitalize the city and continue the work to build new sidewalks, benches, energy-efficient lighting and new lanes to limit the distance pedestrians must travel to crossbetween streets as they travel the corridor.

    Expedited approval for Columbia College three year lease extension: WithSchumers urging, the U.S. Air Force expedited and approved Columbia Colleges

    plan to rebuild on a less-secure portion of Hancock Airbase, saving the college fromclosure. The college will reopen public access to its classrooms at the Mattydale baseand the Air Force will allow Columbia College to go forward with plans to build a $2million modular classroom building in a less sensitive part of Hancock Field.

    Urged Bushmaster Firearms to make home in Central New York: Schumersurging this March ensured Bushmaster Firearms relocation to the Remington plant inIlion. Moving their firearms manufacturing facility brought 40-50 new jobs to theregion and helped the Remington plant remain a strong competitor for governmentcontracts.

    Pushed for better air service between Hancock Airport and New York City:Schumer asked the Department of Transportation to approve a deal to allow Delta and

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    U.S. Airlines to trade some of their terminal slots at LaGuardia and Washington National airports to make it possible for Delta touse larger, faster planes for routes between Syracuse and New York City. The Transportation Department subsequently approvedthe swap and Delta and U.S. Airways finalized the deal in December, paving the way for Delta to improve service to Hancock in thespring of 2012.

    Secured vital funding for surveillance Port of Oswego: Schumer called upon FEMA to support the Port of Oswego through thePort Security Grant Program. After Schumers intervention, FEMA granted $160,400 for 17 camera surveillance systems.

    Helped Byrne Dairy expand sales to Puerto Rico: This summer, Schumer worked with Byrne Dairy executives to ship their milkto Puerto Rico. Schumer helped Byrne Dairy cut thru red tape and expand their sales.

    Kept Sensis and Saab jobs in Syracuse: Schumer met with officials from Sensis and Saab during their merger to ensure their 500jobs in the Syracuse region remained. There are now plans to grow that number.

    Secured $48 million from Navy for Lockheed Martin: Schumer secured $48,443,311 for Lockheed Martin , Syracuse from theU.S. Navy to develop an undersea warfare system. This technology is used on surface ships to detect, classify, localize and tracksubmarines, torpedoes and other subsurface threats. Schumers push for the Lockheed Martin Contract will allow Central New Yorkto lead in development of warfare technology and support critical high tech jobs in the region.Secured federal funding for Nolan Manufacturing building: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provided $200,000 toRome to conduct site assessment and planning for eventual cleanup at Nolan Manufacturing Building as part of a community-wide

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    Brownfield Program site cleanup. The two-story Nolan Manufacturing Building is contaminated by polychlorinated biphenyls(PCBs), asbestos, and lead-based paintall of which will be remediated. This funding will boost local economy and protect publichealth.

    Expanded data center bringing more jobs to Onondaga County: Schumers encouragement pursuaded Time Warner CableChairman Glenn Britt to upgrade and expand its April acquisition NaviSite Inc., to help Central New York Industry. The Salina sitewill keep high tech data jobs and add research and development team bringing 20 jobs to the local operation.

    Modernizes Auburn Memorial Hospital: After pushing the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Schumer helpedpermanently designate Auburn Memorial Hospital a Sole Community Hospital. This designation will provide nearly $2 million inincreased funding and resources to doctor and patients. The designation will also allow the hospital to renovate patient rooms sothat every single patient will be able to stay in a private room with an individual bathroom. The hospital will also repairinterventional radiology equipment, bring their mobile MRI machine into the hospital facility, and install new cardiac monitors thatwill improve patient care.

    After years of urging, secured $8.9 million Army Contract for Remington: Schumers urging has opened the doors for$8.9million from the U.S. Army for Remington Arms Company to manufacture 1,212 M24 Sniper rifles used by service membersin Afghanistan. All of the production of the M24 sniper rifles will take place at Remington Arms Ilion facility by local employees,strengthening Remingtons position as a major regional employer.

    Supported Housing for the Elderly Program funding: Schumer helped Loretto CNY in their application to the Section 202 grantby providing a letter of support. They will use the money to support Loretto CNYs efforts to revitalize and sustain affordab lehousing for senior citizens in Syracuse. Loretto CNY will develop 24 new apartments and provide a broad spectrum of high qual ityhealth, nutrition, social transportation and personal services to the elderly.

    Proposed Sex Offender Registry legislation: Schumers legislation, passed by the Senate Judiciary Committee, requires updatedpictures be taken of sex offender parolees more frequently. This legislation will keep our communities aware of the sex offendersin their area.

    Expedited non-for-profit status of Onondaga County Air1 emergency transport helicopter: The Onondaga County budget for

    2012 proposed by County Executive Joanie Mahoney did not include funding for Air 1, a transport helicopter. Schumersuccessfully sped up the push for not-for-profit status for Air-1, which created a foundation through which Air-1 can receivedonations, thus further relieving the burden on local taxpayers. While it often takes the IRS three months to approve requests for not-for-profit status, with Schumers help, this designation was secured just three weeks after the sheriff applied.

    Stopped federal officials from weakening rules that protect NY candle makers: Syracuses Cathedral Candle, and otherdomestic candle manufacturers, face crippling competition from unfairly-priced imports of candles from China. A federal proposalto scale back the scope of Chinese candles subject to additional duties would have caused significant economic harm to remainingU.S. candle companies and their workers, as well as the communities in which they operate. Schumer successfully pushedgovernment officials to side with U.S. manufacturers. Government officials agreed that application of the additional duties to allshapes and sizes of candles was the only way to protect the integrity of the trade remedy and the remaining U.S. candlemanufacturers and their employees from unfair trade practices and continued economic harm.

    Secured vital funding for first responders: More and more every year, local fire departments find themselves strapped for cashand having to cut corners while still maintaining an adequate and well-prepared fire fighting force. Schumer was among the firstsenators to recognize the need for the federal government to establish a funding program for local governments and fire depar tmentsto help defray the rising costs of fire prevention. In 2011, Schumer secured over $2.2 million for fire departments in Central NewYork, including $535,595 for the City of Cortland Fire Department in Cortland County, $129,509 for the Camdon Fire Departmentin Oneida County, $81,485 for South Onondaga Fire Department in Onondaga County, $30,385 for the Genoa Fire District inCayuga County, and $956,006 for the Utica Fire Department in Oneida County.

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    Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming,

    Monroe, Wayne, Livingston,

    Ontario, Yates, and Seneca

    Kept hundreds of jobs in Rochester; Windstream will move into the Midtownplaza facility: Windstream will occupy two thirds of the former Seneca Building thatwill be redeveloped under the agreement, creating an anchor in the Midtown Plazasite that should help attract other tenants and new businesses to the plaza.Windstreams decision means that hundreds of PAETEC jobs will come to downtownRochester, and comes after Schumer personally lobbied Mr. Gardner to make a majorcommitment to the Rochester region after the company announced its plannedpurchase of PAETEC. Windstream will also maintain a significant local presence atPAETECs Perinton facility.

    Called on Federal Gov to work with Upstate wineries to correct delays inprocess of approving labels for wine bottles: At Schumers request the Alcohol andTobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) pledged to work with NY wineries anddevelop a faster approval process to get wine on the shelves more quickly. Thebacklog in wine label approvals caused significant problems for NY wineries, likeAnthony Road Winery and others across the Rochester Finger lakes region. TTBimmediately began this process to approve not only regular labels but also customlabels for special events. TTB will no longer require separate approval for eachcustom label with amended graphics, which make up about 10% of all wine labelapplications from New Yorks 300 wineries.

    Secured $62 million for UR Laser Lab: With Schumers support the Univeristy ofRochesters Laboratory for Laser Energetics was approved for a $62 million grant

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    Senator Schumers 62 County Tour

    which will help support hundreds of jobs in Rochester, and ensure that the laser lab continues to be a leader in high-tech, cuttingedge jobs.

    Secured EPA approval of NDZ application to keep Lake Ontario clean from boat discharges: The NYS DEC sought to createa no-discharge zone (NDZ) that would prohibit boats from dumping sewage and other potentially harmful chemicals into thewaters offshore. In response to Schumers urging, the Environmental Protection Agency established the NDZ in December so that local beach goers can enjoy cleaner beaches this summer.

    Pushed Coast Guard to turn over parcel of land so the city can begin $19 million port revitalization project: The Coast Guardhad given a time frame of 5-10 years to transfer property ownership to the city on a small parcel of land that was essential forconstruction of Rochesters $19 million marina and port redevelopment. After a push from Schumer and a sit down meeting withMayor Richards and the Coast Guard the Coast Guard agreed to immediately begin its environmental sampling which will expeditethis process. Its anticipated that this new timeline will enable the city to meet their schedule to begin construction as soon as fall

    2012.

    Schumer backed bill makes major expansion to Rochester VA Outpatient Clinic: The Schumer-backed bill, the VeteransHealth Care Facilities Capital Improvement Act of 2011, authorizes over $9.2 million that will allow the Rochester Veterans Clinicto secure a new 20-year lease when its current lease expires in 2016, secure space that is 33% larger than its current size, doubleparking and better serve the changing veterans population in the Rochester Finger Lakes region. The new facility will be 33%bigger and consolidate three smaller locations under one roof.

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    Urged HUD to re-start their Section 8 housing contract process to help save the Main Street Grant Program: With Schumerspush,HUD reversed its determination and allowed dozens of states, including New York, to reapply for a federal housing

    contract. Proceeds from this contract's administration are used to fund the Main Street Grant Program which provides criticaleconomic development funding to local towns and cities. Mt Morris received a $400,000 Main Street Grant to help them revitalizeMain Street last year and expect to apply for additional funding to continue their downtown revitalization. Without HUD's reversal,the Main Street Grant program would have ended.

    Joined the Rochester Business Alliance and local manufacturer, American Aerogel to announce legislation to save New York

    businesses nearly $100M in unemployment insurance fees this year: As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act,states were permitted to borrow money, interest free, from the Federal Unemployment Trust Fund (FUTF) through 2011, to helpfinance the states increasing unemployment burden during the recession. New York State borrowed $3 billion to pay for theirunemployment programs, but because Congress didnt extend the interest-free provision, New York State now owes the federalgovernment $95 million in interest that is being passed on to businesses like American Aerogel in the form of an over $20 peremployee tax.

    Intervened with Customs to clear shipment of green/biodegradable tote bags for Park Avenue festival: Chrysler sponsored thisyears festival and provided 10,000 green recycled tote bags for merchants to hand out rather than plastic bags. But the shippingcontainer with the bags was held up at the Port of New Jersey for a routine invasive inspection. Festival organizers were notifiedthis process takes 1 day to 3 weeks and the festival was approx 4 days away. Schumer contacted U.S. Customs and the agencyworked with us to get their inspection moved up and the bags shipped up here to Rochester within two days, arriving just in t ime forthe 2011 Park Avenue Festival.

    Secured $3M grant to create Moser Baer OLED lighting manufacturing line at STC Canandaigua and 59 new jobs: Thanks toprivate investment from the company, state matching funds, and a $3 million grant secured by Senator Schumer, Moser Baer hasplans to renovate a 9,400 square foot portion of the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering's (CNSE) Smart SystemTechnology and Commercialization Center of Excellence (STC) into the new home for the production of Organic Light-EmittingDiode (OLED) lighting panels. After construction is completed in 2012, Moser Baer has a long-term growth plan to expand andcreate an additional 150 jobs at the facility

    After 10 months of inaction, Senator Schumer intervened with the DoD's Defense Logistics Agency, on behalf of Webster, NYnon-profit government contractor CDS/Unistel: As a result, 40-50 jobs were saved and Unistel is able to implement plans to hire9 local disabled veterans this year. Under a contract with the DoD, Unistel employs local disabled workers-including disabledveterans- to prepare and package spices for the Armed Services. When the market price of spices jumped 80% last year, Unistelasked DoD's DLA for a price increase to cover their overhead. Senator Schumer secured a DoD review of the proposal which itapproved within 1 week of the Senators intervention. Now with the price adjustment in place the full complement of people whowork on this line can return to work.

    After 12 months of inaction, Senator Schumer successfully pushed the NYS Public Service Commission to act and approve

    the ownership transfer of a $5M electrical transmission facility in Orangeville, NY (Wyoming County) to NYSEG: Transfer ofthis facilitys ownership to NYSEG now ensures that this facility, assessed at over $5 million, will be added to the local property taxrolls, providing a benefit to local taxpayers.

    Intervened with the NYS Department of Transportation to issue the contracts to construct a rail spur to local weldingmanufacturer Koike-Aronson in Attica, Wyoming County: New York State awarded a $1.3M grant for the project in 2009, butthe grant was bottled up at the NYS DOT. With Schumers push the $1.3 million will be used to relocate and reconstruct 2,200 feetof the Arcade & Attica Railroad track and allow the company to expand. The project will have a major impact in the employmentpicture in Arcade and all of Wyoming County.

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    Citing months of inaction, Senator Schumer called on the Veterans Administration to select and evaluate possible locations in

    WNY for the newly planned National Veteran Cemetery: Within three weeks of Schumers prodding, VA officials traveled to

    evaluate six sites in Genesee and Erie Counties. The VA has now progressed to the Due Diligence phase and expects to purchase asite by next spring.

    Secured $1.45M Federal Boater Infrastructure Grant for Port of Rochester marina construction: The funding will be used toconstruct a new Marina at the Port of Rochester, add 64 transient slips with dockside utilities, create a deep-draft safe harbor, createan access point for the City of Rochester, create approximately 90 new construction jobs and 30 permanent job from new marine-related businesses, and provide boater services and education on Lake Ontario. The funds for these improvements come from theDepartment of the Interiors Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) Program. Senator Schumer wrote directly to high ranking programofficials in support of this application.

    Assisted Wayne County, in partnership with the non-profit Genesee Land Trust, to preserve the former Alasa Farms site in

    Wayne County as a forever-wild open space: The Genesee Land Trust won a $600,000 grant from USDA Farm and Ranch LandsPreservation Program to acquire the Alasa Farms site. But when the grant payment was delayed, the project was jeopardized aftermore than two years of work. Senator Schumer intervened and contacted the U.S Treasury Department to expedite payment of the$600,000 grant to ensure the property will be maintained in trust for future generations of Wayne County residents.

    Secured Purple Heart Metal for Gerald Wolters: Due to the fact that there were no medical records from his time as a POW, andMr. Wolterss military personnel records were destroyed in the 1973 National Personnel Records Center fire. Mr. Wolters has beenworking for decades to secure the Purple Heart that he deserved. Finally, with help from Senator Schumers staff, new documentscame to light regarding Mr. Wolterss case, and Schumer was able to cut through the red tape and get him the recognition he wasdue.

    Called on President Obama to tell Chinese President, Hu Jintao not to illegally monopolize Rare Earth Metals, a raw

    material critical to Rochester-area manufacturers: Schumer also urged U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk and CommerceSecretary Gary Locke to take actions to end unfair Chinese trade practices involving the exports of rare earth elements. Of all rareearth elements that are industrially mined, 97% are controlled by China. In recent months, the Chinese government has imposedstrict export restraints and sky-high export taxes on rare earth elements. This has meant a cheap and plentiful flow of rare earth

    elements within China, and an expensive and drastically limited global supply.

    Reinstated Foodlink program to Dunn Towers Apartments: Dunn Tower apartments in Rochester contacted Senator Schumerseeking help with restarting the mobile delivery food program provided by Foodlink. After being audited, Foodlink had to implementnew changes which caused to stop the mobile food program with Dunn towers. Schumer facilitated a process through which DunnTower completed the required approvals in order to remain eligible to remain in the Foodlink program.

    Helped reunite a Rochester man and his family with his long lost son after being separated at sea while trying to flee Vietnam

    during the war: Schumer urged U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Kristie Kenney to grant Mr. Samart Khumkham of Thailand atemporary B-2 visitor visa, so that Samart can be reunited with his father, Mr. Hao Truong, and family members that currently live inRochester. Over 33 years ago, Mr. Truong, his wife, and his 7 month old son, all natives of Vietnam, were fleeing the country byboat to safety in Thailand during the Vietnam War. Tragically, their boat was attacked, and Mr. Truong was separated from his wife,who died, and Samart, who was presumed dead. After rescue, Mr. Truong eventually moved to the United States and became a

    naturalized U.S. citizen living in Rochester. Mr. Trough amazingly located his son during a 2011 trip to Thailand and wanted him tovisit his extending family in the United States in Rochester and Texas. The Ambassador granted the visa and Samart was reunitedwith his extended family for the first time this Thanksgiving.

    Secured pivotal funding for Williamson-Sodus Airport winter operations: In June, Schumer secured a $176,557 grant from theDepartment of Transportation for new snow removal equipment. With this funding, the airport can make renovations that will ensurepassenger safety and the smooth operation of the facility.

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    Secured vital funding for first responders: More and more every year, local fire departments find themselves strapped for cashand having to cut corners while still maintaining an adequate and well-prepared fire fighting force. Schumer was among the first

    senators to recognize the need for the federal government to establish a funding program for local governments and fire depar tmentsto help defray the rising costs of fire prevention. In 2011, Schumer secured over $2.4 million for fire departments in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region, including over $145,271 for the Chili Fire Department in Monroe County, $288,680 for the Lake PlainsCommunity Care Network in Genesee County, and $17,955 for the Penn Yan Fire Department in Yates County.

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    Allegany, Steuben, Chemung,

    Schuyler, Tompkins, Tioga, Broome,

    Chenango, Otsego, and Delaware

    Fought devastating storm to keep BAE in Southern Tier: In the wake ofdevastating flooding throughout the Southern Tier in September 2011 businesseshomes and infrastructure sustained crippling damage. BAE Systems one of BroomeCounty's major employer saw their manufacturing facility inundated with standingwater destroying inventory, machinery and ultimately rendering the facilityinhabitable. Serious questions existed over whether the employer of over 1350 wouldremain in the area. Schumer went to bat working hand in hand with local economicdevelopment, and company heads. He secured an agreement from the U.S. Air Force,the owner of the facility that BAE would not be held liable for any costs associatedwith the demolition of the former facility. Thereby reducing the cost to BAE for

    relocating in the Southern Tier. He also secured a commitment from FEMA to workwith the IDA for eligibility of Public Assistance under the disaster declaration. Thisensures the financial obligations for securing the facility will not be born on the backsof the locals. As a result, BAE announced it will remain in the Southern Tier, savingover 1350 jobs and the former site will not be a black eye on a community ravaged byfloods.

    Successfully pushed for Presidential Disaster Declaration, in wake of recordbreaking storms Irene and Lee: Without Schumers diligence the aftermath ofTropical Storms Irene and Lee would still plague hard hit Delaware County whichwas included in the Presidents declaration. Schumers efforts helped deliver $163Min disaster aid for emergency services, road and infrastructure repair, and debrisremoval across New York State. Schumers direct push to President Obama also

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    helped deliver $148M in assistance for individuals to repair their homes and help small businesses recover. Schumers work alsohelped secure over $100 million in Small Business Administration funding. Additionally, Schumer was the first to call on FEMA todeploy temporary housing units for those displaced by Tropical Storms Irene and Lee.

    Secured over $1.7 million for Southern Tiers regional airports: Schumer secured $192,064 in U.S. Department ofTransportation (DOT) funds for Corning-Painted Post Airport facility upgrades and $1,542,800 for upgrades at Ithaca TompkinsRegional Airport. Specifically, the grant will allow Corning-Painted Post Airport to acquire snow removal equipment, including aloader and snow plow, which will enhance the airport's ability to clear the airfield during adverse weather conditions. The grant willallow Ithaca Tompkins to build a new sand storage facility that will better accommodate runway size, and will increase the airportsability to sand runways during inclement weather. This funding is part of the Airport Improvement Program, administered byDOTs Federal Aviation Administration.

    Secured funding for Southern Tier East Regional Planning and Development: Schumer secured $60,000 in funding from the

    Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration (EDA) as part of a Partnership Planning investmentfor the Southern Tier West Regional Planning and Development Board to establish an economic development planning framework,process, and strategy that supports private capital investment and job creation in Broome, Chenango, Cortland, Delaware and T iogaCounties.

    Secured funds to improve daily commutes in Chemung: Schumer secured $500,000 in Department of Transportations FederalTransit Administration funding. Chemung County plans to purchase new revenue collection equipment for their transit system,which consists of 32 vehicles. This equipment will include fareboxes for the systems buses, as well as the hardware and software

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    needed to operate such fareboxes.

    Secured $85 million contract from Navy for Lockheed Martin Owego: Schumer secured $85,137,344 from the U.S. Navy forLockheed Martin Mission Systems and Sensors in Owego. This contract is for the production and delivery of 24 MH-60R helicoptersto the Royal Australian Navy under the Foreign Military Sales Program. This award involves the procurement of specializedcomponents and materials for the helicopters cockpits and avionics systems. The work will take place at the Owego location as wellas smaller sites in Farmingdale and Victor. Schumers push for the Lockheed Martin contract will allow the Southern Tier to lead indevelopment of warfare technology and support critical high tech jobs in the region.

    Called on Federal Gov to work with Upstate wineries to correct delays in process of approving labels for wine bottles: AtSchumers request the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) pledged to work with NY wineries and develop a fasterapproval process to get wine on the shelves more quickly. The backlog in wine label approvals caused significant problems for NYwineries across the Southern Tier. TTB immediately began this process to approve not only regular labels but also custom labels forspecial events. TTB will no longer require separate approval for each custom label with amended graphics, which make up about10% of all wine label applications from New Yorks 300 wineries.

    Schumer led ribbon cutting at grand opening ceremony of a new CVS distribution center in Chemung: This facility will serve350 CVS locations throughout the Northeast, and will employ 600 workers in good-paying positions once at full capacity. This $90million state-of-the-art distribution facility will be 751,000 square feet and is set to be the largest industrial building in the entirestate to receive the Gold level LEED certification for its environmentally friendly design, construction and operations. Schumer hasworked to facilitate CVS' move to Chemung over the past several years, and this opening will put the Southern Tier at the center ofCVS operations in the Northeast.

    Played lead role in demanding accountability and safety protocol changes from Norfolk Southern following derailment

    controversy: Following a November derailment that left a Norfolk Southern rail car upside down in an Elmira parking lot, Schumercalled on the company to make public a full report of what happened in the crash, clarify its policy regarding notification and, ifnecessary, make changes so that local officials are informed whenever an incident occurs. In the wake of the accident, Norfolk hadSouthern failed to notify city officials or local law enforcement about the incident and the public first learned of the situation from

    local residents. At Schumers urging Norfolk Southern agreed to meet with the NYS Department of Transportation, and localofficials to discuss the accident and ways to improve communications.

    Fought for disaster aid to assist New York farmers in rebuilding from Irene and Lee: Tropical Storms Irene and Lee batteredNew York, causing significant damage to farms across the state. In the wake of this disaster, Schumer went to bat for New Yorkfarmers by advocating to the federal government and in the Congress for immediate aid. Schumer called on FEMA and USDA todeclare regions of New York hit by the storms as disaster areas so that farmers can benefit from federal disaster assistance programs.Schumer pushed a bill in the Senate to provide over $300 million to aid farmers in cleaning up their damaged farms through theEmergency Conservation Program and the Emergency Watershed Program. Nearly $40 million of this funding will go to New YorkState. Schumer was instrumental in drumming up support among his colleagues and securing this money for New York. Schumeralso pressed USDA to aid dairy farmers forced to dump milk that spoiled due to power outages and washed out roads and bridges.USDA subsequently took action that resulted in dairy farmers receiving a check as if they had sold their spoiled milk at the market.For many farmers who were facing huge bills to rebuild their farms, these payments provided a key source of relief.

    Secured vital funding for first responders: More and more every year, local fire departments find themselves strapped for cashand having to cut corners while still maintaining an adequate and well-prepared fire fighting force. Schumer was among the firstsenators to recognize the need for the federal government to establish a funding program for local governments and fire depar tmentsto help defray the rising costs of fire prevention. In 2011, Schumer secured over $2 million for fire departments in the Southern Tier,including $42,427 for the Chenango Forks Fire Department in Broome County, $213,750 for the Sidney Center Fire Department inDelaware County, and $199,500 for the East Branch Fire District in Delaware County.

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    Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, and

    Cattaraugus

    Led the charge to secure $15 million TIGER Grant to fund Cars on Main Streetproject in Buffalo: In November 2011, Schumer wrote to Transportation SecretaryRay LaHood urging him to approve a Department of Transportation TIGER Grant forBuffalos Cars on Main Street Project. The Department announced in December thatthe project was selected to receive a grant of $15 million. This investment will allowthe City of Buffalo to continue to move forward with the Main Street Multi-ModalAccess and Revitalization Project, which will spur investment and growth inBuffalos downtown area by upgrading transit and pedestrian amenities andimproving access to Main Street buildings. Schumer will continue efforts to securefederal funding for this important project.

    Secured commitment from Ford CEO to bring $136 million investment to

    stamping plant in Hamburg: Amidst major long-term planning negotiationsbetween Ford and the UAW, Schumer lobbied Ford CEO Alan Mulally to re-invest inFords Hamburg plant. With Ford planning on launching up to seven new lines ofLincoln vehicles, Schumer urged Mulally to bring that business to the Hamburgplant. Following Schumers push, a new UAW contract was agreed upon in Octoberand along with it came a pledge from Ford to invest $136 million and add over 400new jobs to the Hamburg plant. Along with promising to continue stampingoperations for several Ford and Lincoln crossover models, a new blanking line, whichcuts the sheet metal that is used for stamping, is to be added. The blanking line hadbeen removed several years before. Its return demonstrates Fords commitment to theHamburg plant, and along with GMs continued investment in its Tonawanda plant,

    Western New York

    National and Legislative accomplishments

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    Senator Schumers 62 County Tour

    ensures that Western New York continues to be an auto-manufacturing hub. Schumer will continue efforts to bring auto industryinvestment to the area.

    Secured commitment from Department of Homeland Security to bring pre-clearance to the Peace Bridge: In May, Schumersecured a commitment from Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Alan Bersin to pursue pre-clearance of trucks at thePeace Bridge. Pre-clearance will allow trucks to be screened on the Canadian side of the border, creating a more efficient system atthe Peace Bridge. In October, Schumer announced that the CBP and Canadian government would be making an announcement thatpre-clearance will be coming to the peace bridge. On October 19 th, during a hearing with Homeland Security Secretary JanetNapolitano, CES secured a commitment that pre-clearance was officially going to happen. In December, the United States andCanada announced a historic new border agreement that includes the creation of a pilot project to test pre-clearance, at a crossingalong the northern border. Following the successful completion of this pilot project, pre -clearance will be coming to the PeaceBridge. Pre-clearance will allow the Peace Bridge Authority to scale down their plans for a large new plaza on the U.S. side of thebridge which would have required significant federal dollars. Instead, the Peace Bridge Authority will use their own funds to

    construct a smaller plaza on the U.S. side that will ensure less air pollution and will eliminate the plan to demolish homes alongBuffalos West Side.

    Fought efforts to roll back aviation safety legislation: Schumer led the fight to stop the controversial Shuster amendment thatwould have weakened airline safety efforts from being a part of the FAA bill. The amendment would have eliminated the FAAsgoal of setting one level of safety for the entire aviation industry. Following narrow passage of the amendment in the House,Schumer announced that he would do everything possible to stop it in the Senate. Following pressure from Schumer and thefamilies of flight 3407, the amendment was pulled from consideration. Schumer recently received a commitment from the Office of

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    Management and Budget that historic aviation safety measures that were previously signed into law, would be in place by the end ofDecember. Schumer will continue to ensure that the critical safety measures are fully implemented.

    Secured $1.5 million for Buffalo Promise Neighborhood: With Schumers help, the Westminster Foundation has been awarded$1.5 million for the Buffalo Promise Neighborhood (BPN) by the Department of Education Promise Neighborhoods ImplementationGrants Program. This federal funding will build on the work of the Westminster Community Charter School and establish acontinuum of services to cultivate the healthy development from birth through college to career of over 3,000 children and theirfamilies in the northeastern corner of Buffalo.

    Paved the way for long awaited opening of modern, stunning new Buffalo Federal Courthouse at no cost to tax payers: Aftersecuring millions in federal dollars for the construction of a new federal courthouse in Buffalo in 2007, Schumer closely fol lowed theprocess as construction of the courthouse got underway. In 2011, as the courthouse was still under construction, mold as a result ofcondensation was discovered in the walls of the courthouse. Schumer immediately contacted the General Services Administration(GSA) and demanded that they get to the bottom of this problem, and fix it without any additional cost to tax-payers. The GSA foundthat it was a contractor error, and ordered the contractor to fix the problem at the contractors expense. Following Schumers push toquickly fix those construction problems, the beautiful state-of-the-art courthouse finally opened after four years of construction inNovember.

    Successfully fought to secure compensation for Linde nuclear workers: Following years of efforts, In February 2011 Schumersuccessfully lobbied the Advisory Board on Radiation and Worker Health to approve a special exposure cohort for Linde workerswho were exposed to radiation from 1954-1969. Schumer has aggressively worked to get aid for former nuclear workers in WesternNew York. In an effort to compensate these workers, Congress passed EEOICPA in 2000 which allowed them to file claims with theUS Department of Labor for individual payments of $150,000 and other benefits for medical treatments. The special exposure cohortfor Linde allows workers or their survivors to now more easily collect their compensation. Previously, workers had to go throughlayers of red tape and a complicated process to get the compensation they deserved. In December 2011, another special exposurecohort petition for Linde workers from 1947-1953 was approved. Following each of the advisory board approvals, Schumer urgedDepartment of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to quickly give final approval to the advisory board action.The Linde Ceramics plant in Tonawanda was used in the manufacturing of Cold War-era nuclear weapons. Schumer will continue topress the Advisory Board to grant the same special cohort status to all groups of Western New York nuclear workers.

    Secured commitment from VA to choose Buffalo for on-site childcare facility: In a letter to Veterans Administration SecretaryEric Shinseki, Schumer urged the VA to select the VA Hospital in Buffalo for a pilot program for on-site childcare facilities. With atremendous increase in female veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars, the special needs they bring must be addressed. Femaleveterans expressed a need for daycare services while they undergo medical treatments at VA hospitals. The program includes an on-site daycare, along with stipends for veterans interested in private daycare during their medical treatments along with increasedcollaboration with other federal programs that provide daycare services. As a result of Schumers push, Buffalo was selected as oneof three sites for the pilot program.

    Fought to secure new Medicare reimbursement rule for Roswell Park Cancer Institute: After several years of urging theCenters for Medicare & Medicaid Services to change the way it reimbursed Roswell Park Cancer Institute, CMS finally changed t herule. Due to technological advancements over the years, it no longer became necessary for many cancer patients to receive careduring an inpatient hospital stay. New procedures allowed patients to receive their care in a more relaxed outpatientsetting. However, federal rules did not immediately catch up these advancements. The new rule announced by CMS will send an

    additional $3.2 million each year to RPCI. With over 3,200 employees in Western New York, this money will go towards ensuringthese workers continue to perform critical research that has saved so many lives.

    Brought Live Nation officials to Niagara Falls to discuss potential concert event: InOctober, Schumer sent a letter to concertpromotersLive Nation asking them to meet with Niagara Falls officials to discuss hosting a Live Nation concert series event inNiagara Falls, building on the success of the Hard Rock Caf series which drew 60,000 spectators. In order to bring new economicactivity and revenue to the City of Niagara Falls, Schumer is pushing to bring a marquee performer to the Falls, helping attractspectators from across New York, Pennsylvania and Ontario. In November, officials from Live Nation and Niagara Falls met withrepresentatives of Senator Schumer to begin the initial dialogue between Live Nation and Niagara Falls. In Schumers meeting

    Western New York

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    request, he noted that the LiveNation concert events in Niagara Falls could complement the casino-based tourism industry driven bythe Seneca Niagara Casino. A Live Nation concert event could drive tens of thousands of patrons into the nearby casino, restaurants,and hotels throughout Niagara Falls. Creating demand for these services could be a critical step on the road toward Niagara Falls

    development plans.

    New air quality measures in place at Tonawanda Coke: In October of 2009 Schumer sent a letter to the CEO of Tonawanda Cokedemanding that he meet with community groups to hear their concerns about high levels of benzene being emitted by his companysfacility. Following Schumers push, a yearlong air-quality study, performed by the New York State DEC during 2007 and 2008 wasreleased and established that Tonawanda Coke is the predominant source of benzene in the towns industrial zone. Schumer calledon the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and DEC to do everything possible to cut benzene emissions from Tonawanda Coke.In July 2011, the EPA announced over $230,000 in funding that will help to further address air issues in Tonawanda. In addition, theEPA announced an agreement with Tonawanda Coke that will put new emission controls in place that will reduce benzene emissionsat the facility by at least two-thirds.

    Got EPA to investigate industrial fire in Buffalo: Following the Niagara Lubricant fire in Buffalo over the summer, Schumercalled on the Environmental Protection Agency to conduct a full investigation into the causes of the fire, and to examine the failure

    to properly notify residents in the wake of the fire. Schumer pressed the agency to come up with a better way to coordinate theresponse between all levels of government, so that citizens can be made aware of potential environmental risks in the wake of fires ordisasters when potential carcinogens or other harmful chemicals may have been released. In his letter to Administrator Lisa Jackson,Schumer also asked the EPA to investigate the lack of communication between plant officials and local emergency managementregarding the plants chemical contents. Following Schumers request, the EPA announced that they would be fully investigating allaspects of the fire and its aftermath.

    Put incentives in place for First Niagaras plans to create 500 jobs and expand operation: Schumer applauded First Niagarasdrive to take advantage of Federal Renewable Community Tax Credits in 2011. The credit which Schumer secured for the LarkinDistrict in Buffalo in 2004, was designed to stimulate economic development in low income neighborhoods by offering federal taxincentives to businesses and encouraging investment and hiring of residents. First Niagara was able to take advantage of these taxcredits, and in May announced a historic investment at the Larkin District in Buffalo. First Niagara will expand their presence in thearea and create over 500 good paying jobs in the city.

    Secured $500,000 grant to fight human trafficking in Western New York: Schumer led the charge to a $500,000 grant from theDepartment of Justice to combat human trafficking in Western New York. The region has become a prime location for humantrafficking in recent years, mostly due to its status as a cross-border community. The grant was announced in September and wasawarded to the Erie County Sheriffs Office as part of an initiative with the International Institute. In July, Schumer and SenatorGillibrand wrote to U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder urging him to support the grant request. The funding will be used to conductproactive victim-centered trafficking investigations, support the prosecution of trafficking crimes, and enhance communityawareness of trafficking crimes.

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    2011

    Senator Schumers 62 County TourNational and Legislative accomplishments

    station will receive $1.4 million in fund-ing to plan and engineer a new high-speedrail station.Successfully pushed the Administration

    to ensure Russia committed to open its

    market to American information tech-

    nology products: The largely untappedRussian market is critical for the contin-ued growth of U.S. technology manufac-

    turers like New Yorks IBM. Under theinternational Information TechnologyAgreement (ITA), participants musteliminate import duties on a wide range ofinformation technology (IT) products,including computers, telecommunicationsequipment, semiconductors and soft-ware. Schumer successfully pushed U.S.trade officials to ensure that the U.S.-Russia WTO bilateral accession agree-ment, as well at the final WTO WorkingParty Report, reflect an unequivocal com-mitment by Russia to join the ITA andimplement its ITA commitments as soonas possible after accession. Eliminationof Russian tariffs on IT products will expand and create significant new market access opportunities for IBM and other U.S. t echnol-ogy exporters in this major, underserved market.

    Led the fight to tackle Chinas mercantilist exchange rate policies: China uses currency manipulation and other aggressive mer-cantilist tactics to tilt the playing field in favor Chinese manufacturers at the expense of American manufacturers. Schumer, with abipartisan coalition of senators, has pushed successive administrations to address Chinas exchange rate policies and this year suc-cessfully led the fight in the Senate to pass the Currency Exchange Rate Oversight Reform Act. Schumer is pushing the House to

    Creating Jobs for New Yorkers

    Secured High Speed Rail Funding for New York: Schumer secured over $800 million in funding from the American Recoveryand Reinvestment Act to New York State DOT after Florida rejected high speed rail money for projects throughout the state. Sena-tor Schumer worked with the US DOT to reallocate funding to New York after Florida governor Rick Scott refused $2.4 billion inhigh speed rail money. This massive infrastructure investment will create and retain good paying jobs for construction workers andtrades throughout New York.New York will benefit from $450 million to the Northeast Corridor (NEC) to improve train speed on heavily traveled sections andupgrade Penn Station. The NEC Harold Interlocking Amtrak Bypass Routes will receive $295 million to alleviate train traffic com-ing in and out of Manhattan, by creating new routes that will also relieve congestion that slows down traffic on Long Island RailroadPassenger trains. The Harold Interlocking rail junction in Queens is the busiest passenger rail junction in America. This improve-ment will not only eliminate congestion between intercit