Governors Island Alliance

Speaker Sheldon Silver has moved Albany one step closer to funding its share of the Island's capital projects by including $25-million a line item in the Assembly's budget bill. While the Senate bill does not make such a provision, Senator Martin Connor, a Democrat whose district straddles the East River, has also voiced his support for the measure. All eyes now turn to newly installed Governor Paterson, as the Assembly, Senate and administration negotiate the final budget. Their decision is due April 1.
    Former Governor Spitzer pledged $25-million in capital funds for the Island in fiscal 2008-09. When matched by the City, this would allow GIPEC to undertake site preparation and update infrastructure for the parks and historic buildings. But there's a hitch. Mr. Spitzer tied that proposed funding to the sale of the block south of the Javits Center between 33rd and 34th Streets. The uncertain timing of that transaction, and the fact that it is not a line item in the State budget, makes it difficult for the City to appropriate its match. The Mayor's proposed budget includes $31.5-million, but the City will not appropriate more than the State's final figure in its budget. Action by Albany is critical.