State Senator James Seward has announced that crucial funding to support local highway improvements is included in the 2014-15 state budget.

After five years without any increase in Consolidated Highway Improvement Program (CHIPs) funding, the new budget includes a second year of record funding - $438 million – for important local highway, road, and bridge repair projects.

The 2014-15 state budget also includes $40 million in new capital funds to help localities pay for repairs related to the severe winter weather.

More From Star 93.9