Governor Paterson Announces 100% Allocation of ARRA Funds for Clean and Drinking Water Projects

ALBANY, NY (02/17/2010)(readMedia)-- Governor David A. Paterson today announced that the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation has selected and contracted 110 water quality projects allocating the Corporation's entire $519 million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funding by the February 17th deadline. In total, 80 clean and 30 drinking water projects are underway across the State. As a result, this funding will expand "green collar" job opportunities for many sectors, including construction and manufacturing throughout New York.

Governor David A. Paterson said: "In 2009, EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson and I announced the first round of Clean Water projects to receive ARRA funds. One year later, the Environmental Facilities Corporation has contracted every dollar of its $519 million ARRA grant. Their hard work will ensure that thousands of jobs across the State will be created at a time when we need it most. I would like to thank President Obama and the New York Congressional Delegation for their commitment to putting New Yorkers back to work and protecting the environment of our State."

Pete Grannis, Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner and EFC Chairman said: "Over the last decade, communities across New York have been struggling with aging and deteriorating water infrastructure while federal aid for repairs declined -- putting the environment, public health and municipal finances at risk. But the stimulus legislation has turned the tide. Thanks to Governor Paterson and the New York Congressional delegation, this stimulus program has provided support to counties, cities, towns and villages around the State -- at a very critical time. And thanks to the staffs of the DEC and EFC for working diligently to get these projects moving."

Additionally, NYS Environmental Facilities Corporation President and C.E.O. Matthew J. Driscoll today joined EPA Deputy Regional Administrator George Pavlou to mark the one year anniversary of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act at the Westcott Reservoir in Syracuse, New York.

EFC President and C.E.O. Matthew J. Driscoll said: "The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act made great strides to protect and rebuild our State's failing water infrastructure and hard-hit economy. In addition, these projects will provide taxpayer savings through reduced energy and water use, while protecting our water bodies. I would like to express my gratitude to Governor Paterson and the New York Congressional Delegation for their work to secure and disburse these critical funds."

The Corporation's ARRA recipients include 49 Green Innovation Grant Projects that support cost-cutting solutions for water conservation and energy-efficient technologies for drinking and clean water infrastructure. The Westcott Reservoir in Onondaga County received two GIGP awards, totaling $753,543 toward $837,270 in project costs. The City of Syracuse will install micro-turbines and solar panels generating an estimated 300,000 kilowatt hours per year for the Reservoir.

For a full list of the Clean and Drinking Water ARRA recipients, please visit www.nysefc.org. For more information about New York State's ARRA funds, please visit www.recovery.ny.gov.

The following quotes were provided in support of Onondaga County clean and drinking water projects:

EPA Assistant Administrator Peter S. Silva said: "A year after President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, it's clear that the environment, public health and the economy are benefiting from projects like the green innovation projects at the Westcott Reservoir. Because of projects like this one – and dozens of others across the state – municipalities across New York are saving money by increasing energy efficiency and generating their own green power."

NYS Assemblywoman Joan K. Christensen said: "I am pleased to see American Recovery & Re-investment Act (ARRA) funding coming to Onondaga County to directly aid in renewable energy, storm water run-off and other water quality projects. These innovative and environmentally beneficial programs will go toward improving not just the quality of our water throughout our region, but also Central New York's quality of life. I applaud the efforts and results of my colleagues at the state, local and federal levels and pledge to continue to be a good steward of our environment."

Assemblyman William B. Magnarelli (D-Syracuse, Van Buren, Geddes) said: "I am happy that federal stimulus funds are being spent on the Westcott Reservoir Project, which is in my district. This project is not only environmentally friendly and innovative, but it also is an excellent preventative measure to ensure our water supply remains safe."

Posted Wednesday February 17, 2010 at 11:35 am by New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation