Recognition for Workers on Interstate 95 in Port Chester

On Thursday, June 4, the New York State Laborers’ Local 60 and the Laborers’ Tri-Funds staff provided meals from Port Chester’s small business Longo’s Park Delicatessen and supplies to 75 union construction workers on the Last Mile project located on the intersection of I-95 Northbound and I-278 Eastbound in Port Chester to show appreciation for the tireless dedication members have shown before the COVID-19 pandemic, during it and beyond. The men and women of New York State Laborers’ Local 60 continuously work on road and bridge improvements to ensure a safe, well-maintained Port Chester for all.

Over the decades, 14 miles of the highway in the Bronx, Pelham, New Rochelle, Mamaroneck, Harrison and Rye have been reconstructed. This project will complete the reconstruction of the "last mile," improving motorists' experience and increasing safety along this section of I-95. It also includes replacement of the Cross Westchester Expressway ramp bridge and the Grace Church Street bridge over the Thruway, and resurfacing of the Byram River bridge.

“I am endlessly proud of the work our members have done throughout the pandemic,” said Anthony Ascencao, Business Manager, Laborers’ Local 60. “Our members have demonstrated commitment to the job, the community of Port Chester and - above all else - each other by doing everything possible to protect the health and safety of their union brothers and sisters. While the vast majority of New Yorkers are working from home, our members are on essential sites maintaining Westchester’s highways and bridges. Visiting them on their jobsite is a small way we can say thank you, and reinforce the facts that their work is important and will never go unnoticed.”

Sustainable Port Chester Alliance (the Alliance) is also in support of these workers’ efforts.

“Sustainable Port Chester Alliance’s mission is to secure responsible development, affordable housing, and good jobs, and to safeguard human and civil rights in Port Chester,” said Joan Grangenois-Thomas, Volunteer Executive Director, of the Alliance. “Nowhere are these values better exemplified than from union labor. The New York State Laborers’ Local 60 is a committed partner of the Alliance, and we have always applauded their dedication to building safely within our community and providing good jobs for their members. Being a union laborer means fair, family-sustaining wages, strong benefits and the protection and support of your union leaders and brothers and sisters in labor.”

“Across the state, New York State Laborers answered the call to perform the essential work needed to keep communities safe and functional,” said Patrick Purcell, Executive Director, New York State Laborers’ LECET. “This has especially been on display in Westchester County as Local 60 members, despite the serious myriad health concerns a global pandemic presents, showed up each and every day to ensure the work was done. We are thankful for the opportunity to express our gratitude to the women and men of Local 60, and reaffirm our steadfast commitment to supporting them.”

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The New York State Laborers' Union represents over 40,000 members employed in the construction industry and other fields throughout the state. Our members are organized into more than 24 local unions and 5 district councils. We are a proud affiliate of the Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA). http://www.nysliuna.org/