STATE OF NEW YORK 
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER 
Proclamation


Whereas, the Empire State appreciates the work carried out by those who maintain the integrity of public services that are essential to modern American life, including a sound system of public works, facilities and well-developed infrastructure that are vital to the health and safety of New Yorkers; and

Whereas, every day, construction and repair projects in communities across this State require underground digging and excavation in and around homes, office buildings, schools, shopping malls, transportation hubs, and other public venues, and in order to minimize the possibility of a mishap, the public should exercise caution through appropriate planning and notification of proper authorities; and

Whereas, Dig Safely New York and the New York City and Long Island One Call Center are New York’s nonprofit, one-call notification services that help the general public and professional excavators obtain information on the location of underground facilities; and

Whereas, the breakup, disturbance or removal of earth near underground facilities can be hazardous and Dig Safely New York and the New York City and Long Island One Call Center aim to increase worker and public safety by emphasizing the importance of calling before digging; and

Whereas, Dig Safely New York and the New York City and Long Island One Call Center strive to prevent damage to underground facilities and, thus, ensure the continuity of essential utility and communication services; and

Whereas, it is in the best interests of those involved in projects requiring excavation – whether planning the work, or actually doing the work – to be aware of services available through Dig Safely New York and the New York City and Long Island One Call Center, as they provide a convenient means to ensure their personal safety and to comply with New York State law regarding excavation; and

Whereas, New York State supports this observance highlighting the need for safety and caution in construction and maintenance projects that require digging, so as to eliminate the potential dangers associated with such work;

Now, Therefore, I, David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim April 7-11, 2008 as DIG SAFELY WEEK in the Empire State.

G i v e n under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this second day of April in the year two thousand eight.