Several major infrastructure projects in the Finger Lakes and Central New York will receive federal funding through the Northern Border Regional Commission, including bridge, sewer and water system upgrades in Cayuga, Seneca and Genesee counties.
U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced more than $13.1 million for 17 projects across Upstate New York. Locally, the awards include more than $6.1 million for projects in Cayuga County, Seneca County and the Rochester-Finger Lakes region.
The largest local award is going to Cayuga County, which will receive more than $3.1 million to replace the bridge to Deauville Island at Emerson Park. County officials have said the existing bridge is uncertified, limiting safe access for construction vehicles and visitors at one of Cayuga County’s most heavily used public destinations.
The new bridge will be built with steel and timber and is expected to support planned improvements at Emerson Park, including a public amphitheater and destination playground. Federal officials said the project will also improve accessibility and help support future investment at the park.
In Seneca County, the town of Varick will receive $1 million to create Sanitary Sewer District No. 4 along Cayuga Lake. The project will replace aging septic systems that officials said are suspected of leaching into the lake and creating ongoing inspection costs for property owners.
The Varick project includes an all-pressure collection system with 172 grinder pumps and nearly 22,000 feet of force main. Wastewater flows will be conveyed through Fayette to the Seneca Falls wastewater treatment plant.
The town of Sennett in Cayuga County will also receive $1 million for water infrastructure improvements. The project includes installation of 29,000 feet of 8- and 12-inch water mains, along with valves, hydrants and related equipment across several roads. It will also include an emergency interconnection with the town of Skaneateles.
In Genesee County, the village of Oakfield will receive $1 million to replace failing clay sewer mains, century-old waterlines and reconstruct streets. Officials said the project is intended to increase system capacity, improve fire protection and open 470 acres for potential workforce housing and business growth.
Schumer said the funding will support infrastructure upgrades across Upstate New York while creating jobs and improving quality of life. Gillibrand said the investments will help communities address aging infrastructure, expand services and support economic growth.
The Northern Border Regional Commission is a federal-state partnership serving communities in New York, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. In New York, the commission covers 30 counties, including Cayuga, Genesee, Seneca, Wayne and Yates counties.
The funding comes through NBRC’s Catalyst, Forest Economy and Timber for Transit programs. Schumer and Gillibrand said the commission was reauthorized in 2024 for another five years, with its funding authorization increased from $33 million to $40 million.
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