The Empire State will “shell out nearly $1 million to construct signs to put up near stimulus-funded projects, just to tell us it’s a stimulus-funded project,” a Syracuse TV station reports. Governor Paterson doesn’t seem to have a problem with it, though.
According to WSYR-TV:
The federal government says the signs are actually “strongly encouraged” and not mandatory, but Gov. Paterson made it clear to us Monday it’s not even up for discussion.
“From where you’re standing, which way is Washington? Ask them, that is a federal requirement and we are in compliance with them,” Paterson says.
At least a few states see it differently: Texas, Florida and Virginia have just flat out said no, they’re not spending tax dollars to pat lawmakers on the back.
[snip]
The signs were supposed to be up at the Bartel Road Bridge in Brewerton and on 690 east of the city of Syracuse weeks ago, but they’re actually on back order; when they do finally get placed, you won’t be able to miss them.
And in grand Empire State fashion, New York is going to spend $4,000 to $5,000 for signs that other states are paying $500 for.
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