Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the approval of over $265 million in financial assistance for water infrastructure improvement projects across New York State, with the Environmental Facilities Corporation Board of Directors authorizing municipal access to low-cost financing and grants. This move aims to support communities in modernizing aging water systems, ensuring safe drinking water, and protecting New York’s natural resources. The initiative reflects Governor Hochul’s commitment to providing New Yorkers with access to clean and safe water, bolstering the state’s environmental and public health protections.
Chemung County is set to receive nearly $200 million from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for a wastewater treatment plant consolidation and improvement project. This significant investment will modernize and expand the Milton Street Wastewater Treatment Plant, retire the older Lake Street facility, and consolidate operations to enhance service for over 60,000 residents, particularly benefiting disadvantaged communities and improving water quality in the Chemung River and the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.
Additionally, the funding package includes support for various local projects, including a notable $9 million combined financing and grant for the City of Geneva’s wastewater treatment plant upgrades. This comprehensive funding approach, combining state and federal resources, underscores New York’s proactive stance on environmental sustainability and infrastructure resilience, promising long-term benefits for communities across the state.