Congressman Mike Lawler has released the latest video in his series highlighting major federal investments secured for New York’s 17th Congressional District, this time focusing on the $5 million he secured for the Safer Ramapo Project.

The funding, included in Lawler’s Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations package, will support the installation of critical pedestrian safety improvements throughout the Town of Ramapo and its villages, including new traffic signals, turning lanes, sidewalks, walking paths, and other infrastructure upgrades. The project is intended to improve safety for both pedestrians and motorists, enhance accessibility and ADA compliance, and create safer connections between schools, neighborhoods, local businesses, and houses of worship.

“Whether it’s walking to school, local businesses, or houses of worship, residents should be able to do so safely,” Lawler said. “That’s why I fought to bring $5 million home for the Safer Ramapo Project.”

Ramapo Town Supervisor Michael Specht thanked Lawler for securing the funding, saying the investment will allow the town and its villages to complete long-needed infrastructure improvements.

“These upgrades will make it safer for our residents to walk, visit neighbors, bring their children to school and parks, shop, attend houses of worship, and, in general, improve their quality of life,” Specht said. “Thank you to Congressman Lawler and his hardworking staff for securing this much-needed funding.”

Chestnut Ridge Mayor Rosario Presti also welcomed the investment, saying the new sidewalks and related infrastructure improvements will significantly enhance pedestrian safety throughout the village and provide lasting benefits for residents.

Wesley Hills Mayor Marshall Katz highlighted a separate sidewalk project made possible through the funding, explaining that approximately $1 million will be used to construct a sidewalk along Route 306 from Lime Kiln Road to Ackertown Road. The project is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to begin in the coming months.

The Safer Ramapo Project will benefit communities throughout the Town of Ramapo, including Chestnut Ridge, Wesley Hills, New Square, Airmont, Montebello, Pomona, and other villages, by expanding pedestrian infrastructure and improving roadway safety for residents of all ages.

As previously reported by Monsey Scoop, the $5 million allocation is part of the $31 million in Fiscal Year 2026 federal appropriations secured by Lawler for projects across New York’s 17th Congressional District. Those investments include funding for infrastructure, transportation, public safety, and community improvement projects throughout the Hudson Valley.

Lawler said the investment will reduce risks for drivers and pedestrians alike while strengthening the connections that bring the Ramapo community together.

“These investments will reduce risks for drivers and pedestrians alike, while strengthening the connections that bring this community together,” Lawler said. “It’s an investment in Ramapo’s future and the families who call it home.”