Just over $1.3 million is coming to Auburn to replace a culvert and mitigate the risk of flooding.
US Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced on Friday that $1,305,000 in federal funding will be used to replace the Wood Brook Culvert on Burgess Street with a new and wider one, capable of handling heavy periods of rain.
“Improving flood infrastructure is vital so we don’t see the devastating impacts of flooding like we did with Tropical Storm Fred in 2021,” said Senator Gillibrand.“This federal funding will go a long way toward ensuring Auburn residents are protected from future extreme weather events. I’m proud to announce this funding and will continue to fight to deliver federal resources to protect New Yorkers from the devastating impacts of flooding.”
The culvert was damaged after Tropical Storm Fred in 2021 and flooding has damaged nearby residences.
“The City of Auburn experienced devastating flooding from Tropical Storm Fred in 2021, showing the importance of improving our flood infrastructure to protect homes and businesses. This long-needed federal funding will help provide necessary upgrades to finally replace this aging culvert keeping Auburn neighborhoods and homes better prepared to weather the next storm,” said Senator Schumer. “I am proud to deliver this critical investment for Cayuga County to help build a stronger foundation to prevent flooding and keep our residents safe.”
Auburn Mayor Jimmy Giannettino thanked both the senators for helping to secure the funding for the city.
“I want to thank Senator Schumer and his staff for their support and assistance in helping us secure this necessary funding. As increased storm intensity continues to challenge our aging infrastructure in the City of Auburn, it is vital that we have support from our partners in the Federal government to address existing vulnerabilities. Funding for the reconstruction of the Burgess Street culvert will protect adjacent neighborhoods and a nearby school by mitigating potential flooding hazards,” said City of Auburn Mayor Jimmy Giannettino.
Back in January, Auburn applied for Bridge NY Grant funding to allow for work on four culverts within the city, including the one on Burgess Street.
