$51M for water improvements in New York 2023

A $4.2 billion environmental bond authorized by voters last year is helping New York officials deliver $51 million to towns to fix water and sewage infrastructure.

On Thursday, the Environmental Facilities Corp. approved low-cost loans and incentives for local governments to enhance water treatment, manage new pollutants, and update existing systems.

Lead service connection replacements will be funded.

“New York is committed to providing communities with the resources needed to upgrade water systems and improve water quality,” Gov. Kathy Hochul stated.

“We are continuing our nation-leading clean water investments with $500 million for clean water infrastructure in this year’s budget helping to protect the health and safety of our residents, preserve our environment, and improve quality of life for all with access to safe, reliable, and clean water.”

Local authorities say they need tens of billions of dollars to modernize New York’s water and sewer systems. Climate change worries have also strained infrastructure.

“New York remains committed to investments in projects to improve, repair, and replace critical water infrastructure across the state and to protecting communities from pollution that could be harmful to the public, the environment, and our economy,” said Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Basil Seggos.