Three Finger Lakes communities are set to receive major financial support for critical water and sewer system improvements, thanks to a $135 million statewide investment announced by Governor Kathy Hochul this week.
The Village of Moravia, the Town of Owasco, and the Village of Rushville are among dozens of municipalities awarded funding through New York’s Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC). The money comes from a mix of state grants, low-interest financing, and federal funds secured through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).
$10.8 million headed to Moravia
The Village of Moravia will receive a $10.8 million grant and financing package to support upgrades at its wastewater treatment plant. The project is part of a broader effort to modernize aging infrastructure, improve public health, and protect the environment while minimizing costs to local ratepayers.
Owasco to improve sewer system
The Town of Owasco will get $3.7 million for major sewer upgrades. The funding will go toward building new storm sewers and replacing sanitary sewers in Sewer District No. 1. These improvements are designed to reduce inflow and infiltration — a common problem that can overwhelm wastewater systems during heavy rain and snowmelt.
Rushville focuses on clean drinking water
In the Village of Rushville, a $1.5 million grant and financing package will fund the addition of carbon filtration at the water treatment plant. The upgrade aims to improve drinking water quality and ensure compliance with evolving health standards.
Statewide push to improve water systems
These projects are part of a larger $135 million initiative to strengthen water infrastructure across New York. The funding includes support for removing lead service lines, reducing emerging contaminants like PFAS and PFOA, and boosting wastewater treatment capacity.
Governor Hochul emphasized that clean water is essential to both public health and economic growth.
“These investments keep our water clean, our communities safe, and our costs low,” she said. “They also build more sustainable and resilient infrastructure for the future.”
Local officials and state leaders praised the funding model, which blends federal dollars with state programs to stretch resources and avoid burdening taxpayers.
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