New York State Senator April N.M. Baskin announced today that she is committing significant state capital funds to support critical infrastructure upgrades and public safety improvements in the City of Lackawanna as part of her ongoing efforts to revitalize the city and invest in its future.

Senator Baskin is nominating the City of Lackawanna to receive $500,000 in capital funding for right-of-way infrastructure improvements and public works equipment. This investment would help maintain safe streets, prevent costly future repairs, and ensure the Department of Public Works has the tools necessary to effectively serve residents and support long-term community development.

In addition, Senator Baskin is committing $100,000 in capital funding for the restoration of the historic Lackawanna Carnegie Library, a more than 100-year-old community landmark built with donated funds from steel industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The funding would support efforts to preserve aging infrastructure while ensuring the library continues to serve future generations.

Senator Baskin is also allocating $50,000 in capital funding to the Lackawanna Fire Department for kitchen renovations at Firehouse #3, located at 2990 South Park Ave. The project would modernize the heart of the firehouse, supporting the health, safety, and well-being of the firefighters who protect the Lackawanna community.

I recognize the history that built this city, and I will continue to invest in Lackawanna,” Senator Baskin said. “This city gave so many Western New York families their start, and I am committed to ensuring it remains a place where people can build their lives.

For generations, Lackawanna’s economy was powered by Bethlehem Steel, once the largest steel operation in the world. While the industry’s decline dealt a major blow to the city, its history of resilience continues to guide Senator Baskin’s work.

On behalf of the City of Lackawanna, I wish to thank Senator Baskin for this generous $650,000 capital funding investment which will allow for greatly needed upgrades to our city’s public works equipment, public library and firehouses,” said Mayor Annette Iafallo. “This grant continues Senator Baskin’s long-time commitment, dating back to her days on the Erie County Legislature, of providing greatly-needed resources benefitting the residents, businesses, community organizations and employees of Lackawanna.

Looking ahead, Senator Baskin is committed to working collaboratively to preserve the Colonel John B. Weber House and to pursuing additional state funding with the Lackawanna City School District to support safe, modern playgrounds and recreational spaces for students. As the recently appointed Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Economic Development and Small Business, Senator Baskin will ensure Lackawanna business owners can get the support they need from the state government. 

Assemblymember Jon D. Rivera said,

Lackawanna is a proud, resilient city, and sustained state investment is essential to honoring its past while building its future. I’ve worked hard to deliver state aid for Lackawanna schools and community projects because I believe deeply in this community and the families who call it home. Senator Baskin’s commitment to critical infrastructure, public safety, and the preservation of the historic Carnegie Library reflects that same belief: that smart, targeted investments can strengthen neighborhoods, protect residents, and spark long-term growth. I’m grateful for her partnership, and I look forward to continuing our work together to ensure Lackawanna has the resources it needs to thrive.

Assemblyman Patrick B. Burke said, 

Lackawanna has strong, effective representation in Albany because Sen. Baskin and I work hand in hand to deliver for the community. Together, we make sure Lackawanna’s voice is heard and that the city gets the support it deserves.

Erie County Legislature Majority Leader John Gilmour said,

Senator April Baskin continues to prove what effective representation looks like. By nominating the City of Lackawanna for $650,000 in capital funding and securing support for infrastructure, public safety, the Lackawanna Carnegie Library, and the Fire Department, she is turning advocacy into action and ensuring our city has the resources it needs to continue to grow and thrive.