Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) Board of Directors has approved a significant $265 million in financial assistance to support vital water infrastructure improvement projects across the state. This funding will enable municipalities to access low-cost financing and grants, accelerating the initiation of critical water and sewer infrastructure projects that are essential for public health and environmental protection.
A key portion of this funding, $30 million, comes from the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). These grants will be allocated to 30 communities statewide to conduct inventories of lead service lines in drinking water systems. This crucial first step will pave the way for future replacement projects, ensuring safer drinking water and safeguarding public health, particularly in communities that have historically been underserved.
Governor Hochul’s Vision for New York
“Improving our water infrastructure is essential for building safe and healthy New York communities,” stated Governor Hochul. “This financial assistance is a game-changer, enabling us to provide safe drinking water to all New Yorkers, protect our natural resources, and ensure that these critical infrastructure projects are both successful and affordable.”
The Board’s approval includes a combination of grants and financing options for local governments, utilizing funds from the BIL, as well as the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (CWSRF and DWSRF). Additionally, previously announced grants under the Water Infrastructure Improvement (WIIA) program will be leveraged to empower local communities to implement critical system improvements. These investments are expected to enhance public health, protect the environment, bolster communities’ readiness for climate change, and stimulate economic development.
EFC and State Leaders on the Importance of the Investment
Maureen A. Coleman, President & CEO of the Environmental Facilities Corporation, emphasized the impact of these investments: “Thanks to Governor Hochul’s sustained commitment to generational investments in our state’s water infrastructure, we are making significant strides in replacing lead service lines and addressing other pollutants that threaten clean water. The $265 million announced today provides the necessary funding for municipalities to upgrade aging wastewater systems and ensure access to safe drinking water.”
Interim Commissioner of the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Sean Mahar, highlighted the long-term benefits: “This $265 million investment will equip local municipalities with the resources they need to design and implement essential water infrastructure improvements. Governor Hochul’s commitment to these generational investments is crucial for addressing historic inequities, protecting public health, benefiting the environment, and strengthening local economies.”
Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald also underscored the public health implications: “Access to clean, safe drinking water is fundamental to protecting public health. Governor Hochul’s investment in reducing lead service lines and upgrading wastewater systems is a major step forward in reducing public health risks now and in the future.”
Federal Support and Bipartisan Cooperation
The initiative has also received strong support from federal leaders. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia commented on the collaborative effort: “Many communities across New York have faced significant challenges in addressing the costs of fixing aging sewage and drinking water infrastructure. The historic investments from the EPA and the State of New York, supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, are now equipping these communities to make essential upgrades and protect public health.”
Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer expressed his commitment to the initiative: “There is nothing more important than ensuring New York’s drinking water is safe for our children and families. The $30 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help communities across the state access safe drinking water, improve public health, and promote economic development.”
Local Impact of the Investment
The approved funding will support a wide array of clean water and drinking water projects throughout New York, benefiting both small towns and larger cities. For instance, the Village of Herkimer will receive grants and interest-free financing to upgrade its wastewater treatment plant, while the City of Yonkers will benefit from a significant grant to replace aging water mains. These projects, along with many others, reflect the state’s commitment to addressing both immediate and long-term water infrastructure needs.
With this substantial investment, New York continues to lead the way in modernizing its water infrastructure, ensuring that communities across the state have access to clean, safe, and reliable water systems.
