Governor Hochul greenlights $142 million for New York water infrastructure projects

(UI) — Governor Kathy Hochul has announced a significant financial injection of $142 million for water infrastructure improvement projects throughout New York State. The funding, approved by the Environmental Facilities Corporation Board of Directors, aims to provide essential support for municipalities in upgrading critical water and sewer infrastructure.

The approved funding includes substantial investments from both the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and the state's Water Infrastructure Improvement (WIIA) grant program. Among the recipients are the Villages of Alexandria Bay, Newark, and Perry, each slated to receive funding to enhance water quality and safeguard drinking water.

Maureen A. Coleman, President & CEO of the Environmental Facilities Corporation, emphasized the importance of these investments in modernizing local drinking water and sewer systems. The funding is part of Governor Hochul's broader commitment to addressing emerging contaminants and bolstering water infrastructure resilience in the face of climate change.

Notably, the Board's approvals encompass a range of projects, including clean water initiatives such as wastewater treatment plant improvements and drinking water projects like the replacement of water mains and installation of advanced treatment systems.

The funding is also intended to facilitate long-term affordability of existing projects, with refinancing initiatives projected to save local ratepayers millions in interest payments over time.

This allocation of funds aligns with New York State's ongoing efforts to prioritize water quality and invest in infrastructure upgrades. With Governor Hochul's proposed budget earmarking $500 million over two years for water infrastructure, the state continues to lead national efforts in this critical area.

In addition to these investments, New York's commitment to water quality is further underscored by initiatives such as the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022. This voter-approved act aims to provide historic levels of funding to update aging water infrastructure, protect water quality, and enhance community resilience against environmental challenges.

Through these concerted efforts, Governor Hochul and the state government are working to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to clean and safe drinking water, while also fortifying infrastructure to withstand future challenges.

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