$4.6 million is headed to the village of Watkins Glen so that major upgrades can be made to its water storage tank and pump station.
In announcing the funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said the funding will also be used to replace water lines and make other water infrastructure improvements. The senators said the project is expected to create an estimated 20 new, good-paying jobs and support an additional 100 jobs in the community, supporting local businesses and bolstering economic development efforts.
“Federal dollars are flowing to improve water infrastructure in Watkins Glen. This will help give Watkins Glen families and businesses the modern water infrastructure they need and deserve all while creating a steady stream of jobs, jobs, jobs,” said Senator Schumer. “I am proud to deliver this major $4.6 million federal investment to help lay a foundation for future growth and economic development in Schuyler County “
“Investments in infrastructure improvements are crucial to help support residents, businesses, and tourists alike,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This $4.6 million grant will bring much-needed water infrastructure improvements to the Village of Watkins Glen that will help the local economy and create or retain dozens of good-paying jobs. I’m proud to be delivering this vital investment and will fight to secure more federal dollars to support New York’s businesses and boost job growth throughout Schuyler County.”
The project will include upgrading the Steuben Street Tank, a 500,000-gallon welded steel tank constructed in 1989, by sandblasting, recoating, and resurfacing both the inside and outside of the tank. The project will also improve the Steuben Street Pump Station by upgrading the electrical system, system controls, and more. Lastly, the project will replace 36,000 linear feet of water mains within the Village of Watkins Glen distribution system, increasing the capacity of the system, improving water pressure, and addressing deficiencies that will benefit all residents. The project will also include replacing fire hydrants and improving the valves and will be matched with $4.6 million in local funds.
“I would like to thank Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for their support in securing this federal investment,” said Judy McKinney-Cherry, Executive Director of the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development. “For too long, aging water infrastructure has compromised water quality and hindered efforts to improve livability in local communities. The upgraded infrastructure made possible by this investment will provide the foundation for new housing opportunities, improve quality of life, and support the advancement of key economic development priorities in Watkins Glen.”
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