NORWICH - U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer was in Norwich Tuesday to tell a room full of business people that he secured $24 million to help fix Route 12. He says now it's up to the New York State Department of Transportation to stop "dragging its feet."

"Route 12 should be a blessing for this region and it's become a nightmare," Schumer said.

Senator Schumer and Congressman Michael Arcuri stood side by side Tuesday at Unison Industries in Norwich. Both agree improvements to Route 12 need to be made now, if not years ago.

They are calling on the New York State Department of Transportation to step up and do something about the ailing highway.

"The state D.O.T. is sitting on the money, moving too slowly and not understanding the needs of the citizens of the region that bounds route 12," Schumer said.

$24 million has been secured to help fix Route 12, whether it be adding passing lanes or widening curves.

"Norwich needs better access both North and South," said Congressman Michael Arcuri. "One of the things I always talk about. Utica and Binghamton are sister cities...yet they might as well be 500 miles apart."

Norwich, located in the middle of the two cities is said to be suffering the most.

"Trucks couldn't get through," Schumer said. "Some of our biggest employers...and it was hurting keeping jobs and growing jobs heres. So this is not just a question of time but question of economic vitality."

Senator Schumer went on to say he would like to see 29 short-term improvements that will add up to long-term benefits.

According to the Regional Director's office of the State D.O.T., improvements are already underway.