$125,000 in state funding has been awarded to the Central New York Conservancy, which is working with the City of Utica to restore two historic bridges located in F.T. Proctor Park.

The funding was announced by Assemblyman Anthony Brindisi.

Work began last week to restore the Tributary and Starch Factory Creek bridges, which have experienced years of wear and tear.

Brindisi says restoration of the bridges will allow necessary access into the park and prevent any further deterioration.

“F.T. Proctor Park is not only a popular destination for many Mohawk Valley residents—it also is historic, since its designer also was the architect of Central Park.  I am pleased that the historic bridges that have been a part of the park for generations will be repaired and restored through this grant,” said Brindisi.

“We are grateful to Assemblyman Brindisi for his support of our ongoing efforts to preserve, restore, and enhance the Utica Park System. This support enables the Conservancy, in partnership with the City of Utica, to undertake its first major capital project and to preserve the bridges that are integral to the park,” said Peter Falzarine, Executive Director of the Central New York Conservancy.

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