Governor Kathy Hochul announced $143 million in financial assistance for seven water infrastructure improvement projects, the latest action to upgrade New York's water and sewer systems, reduce water pollution, and safeguard vital drinking water supplies. The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation Board of Directors approved low-cost financing and previously announced grants, authorizing municipal access to the capital needed to get shovels in the ground for critical drinking water and sewer projects in New York City and the Finger Lakes, Mid-Hudson and North Country regions.
"These low-cost financings and grants are the building blocks for municipalities to modernize and protect their critical water infrastructure," Governor Hochul said. "My administration will continue to tackle clean water issues head-on with strategic investments that will benefit New Yorkers for generations to come."
The Board's approvals include financings through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, as well as grants already announced pursuant to the Water Infrastructure Improvement grant program.
New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation President and CEO Maureen A. Coleman said, "This $143 million infrastructure investment will provide cleaner, safer water, all while saving ratepayers money and creating good-paying jobs. EFC is pleased to work with our partners in state government to provide the funding that make these critical projects possible."
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner and Environmental Facilities Corporation Board Chair Basil Seggos said, "Investing in water infrastructure is critical to protecting communities from water pollution that threatens public health and the environment. DEC is fortunate to work closely with Governor Hochul and EFC to help municipalities turn these important projects into reality and looks forward to building upon these initiatives with additional support in this year's State of the State."
Acting New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James V. McDonald said, "This latest investment to improve drinking water and upgrade sewer projects is a critical component of efforts to protect public health and promote healthy communities. I thank the Governor for her continued commitment to strengthening the State's water infrastructure and look forward to continuing our partnership with the Environmental Facilities Corporation and the Department of Environmental Conservation to ensure access to safer, cleaner water well into the future."
New York Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez said, "Clean water infrastructure provides the foundation on which New York is building healthy, sustainable and resilient communities. These investments will improve water quality while protecting public health, quality of life, environmental integrity and economic development for generations of New Yorkers to come."
Categories: New York, Sustainable Agriculture