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Poughkeepsie is set to receive a significant portion of state funding aimed at improving water infrastructure. The city will benefit from more than $31 million in state and federal grants, along with interest-free financing, to tackle essential water projects. This funding is part of a larger $250 million initiative announced by New York Governor Kathy Hochul to support local governments in upgrading water and sewer systems.
The city plans to use the funds to replace 766 lead service lines and create an inventory of materials in its drinking water service lines, focusing on identifying lead or galvanized pipes. This effort is crucial for protecting public health and the environment, as exposure to lead can cause severe health issues, especially in children. Poughkeepsie Mayor Yvonne Flowers expressed gratitude for the funding, stating it will help ensure every family in the city has access to clean, safe water.
Governor Hochul emphasized the importance of these projects, saying, "With this $250 million investment, we're making vital projects affordable and ensuring New Yorkers can trust the water they rely on every day." The funding is part of a broader effort to address aging water infrastructure across the state, including initiatives in other cities like Rochester and Troy.
U.S. Representative Pat Ryan described the funding as "game-changing" for Poughkeepsie, highlighting its role in improving stormwater management systems and ensuring safe drinking water for families. The city's ongoing efforts to replace approximately 5,500 lead lines are estimated to cost $163 million, with previous grants already supporting this endeavor.
The funding will flow through various programs, including the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds, the Lead Infrastructure Forgiveness and Transformation (LIFT) grant program, and other state grants. These initiatives aim to make essential water improvements more affordable for communities across New York, ensuring long-term resilience and sustainability.