Gov. Kathy Hochul and state officials announced Wednesday that $516 million has been awarded to the state to rehabilitate and replace local bridges and culverts.

The funding was provided through New York's state BRIDGE NY initiative, which is aimed at helping governments across the state strengthen their existing infrastructure.

Gov. Hochul added the program provides essential funding to local governments to enhance the safety of the infrastructure allowing more than 140 bridges to better withstand extreme weather events.