SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND DELIVER $4.6 MILLION FOR VILLAGE OF WATKINS GLEN TO UPGRADE AGING WATER INFRASTRUCTURE CREATING NEW GOOD-PAYING JOBS AND NEW ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY FOR SCHUYLER COUNTY
Project Is Expected To Create 20 Jobs, And Support Work For An Additional 100 Jobs In Schuyler County
Schumer, Gillibrand: Fed $$ Is Flowing To Boost Watkins Glen’s Water Infrastructure!
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $4.6 million from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to make major upgrades to the Village of Watkins Glen’s water storage tank and pump station, 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.”
“I would like to thank Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for their support in securing this federal investment. 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,” said Judy McKinney-Cherry, Executive Director of the Schuyler County Partnership for Economic Development.
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.
###
