The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $197 million to the state of New York to help finance improvements to water projects. The funds will be primarily used to upgrade sewage plants and drinking water systems throughout the state. This funding, which is awarded annually, is in addition to the $340 million New York recently received for Hurricane Sandy resiliency projects.
“Since 1989, the EPA has provided more than $5.7 billion for New York State water projects,” said EPA Regional Administrator Judith A. Enck. "This funding helps New York communities upgrade their drinking water and sewage treatment systems, improving the environment and protecting public health.”
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund program, administrated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation, received $155 million. EPA’s funding provides low-interest loans for water quality protection projects to make improvements to wastewater treatment systems, control pollution from rain water runoff, and protect sensitive water bodies and estuaries.
The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program, administrated by the New York State Department of Health, received $42 million. EPA’s funding provides low-interest loans to finance improvements to drinking water systems, with a particular focus on providing funds to small and disadvantaged communities and to programs that encourage pollution prevention as a tool for ensuring safe drinking water.
Source: EPA
