The New York State Environmental Facilities Corp. board of directors has approved more than $48 million in grants, interest-free loans, and low-cost loans to support vital drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects across New York state, including two local projects.
The 2022 Enacted Budget adds a $500 million appropriation to support clean water, raising the state’s total investment to $4 billion and continuing to fulfill the state’s $5 billion clean water commitment, officials said.
“Clean water and functioning water infrastructure are essential parts of the standard of living and qualify-of-life for all New Yorkers, and towns and villages across the state have an ongoing need for wastewater treatment plants and water tanks that needs to be filled,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said. “The newly enacted budget dedicates $500 million to support clean water initiatives which increases our investment and brings the state closer to fulfilling its commitment to New Yorkers. These projects will underscore our pledge to help protect the environment and the health of New York’s residents and families.”
Environmental Facilities Corporation President and CEO Joseph Rabito said, “By approving these grants and low-cost financing for critical water infrastructure work, the EFC board of directors has ensured that communities statewide can cost-effectively undertake important projects that help protect our precious water resources.”
Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said, “These significant state investments help municipalities prioritize programs to upgrade outdated drinking water infrastructure and implement treatment necessary to improve water quality in communities statewide.”
