Governor Cuomo offers $200m grant to combat water contamination

New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced $200m in financial assistance to enable communities treat federally unregulated contaminants in drinking water supplies.

The grant funding supports the government’s decision to set enforceable drinking water standards for emerging contaminants PFOA, PFOS, and 1,4-dioxane.

Around $185m of the total funding will be used to upgrade drinking water treatment systems to combat emerging contaminants.

The remainder will be used to assist communities pursuing system upgrades and pilot technologies in this area.

Cuomo said: “Safe drinking water is critical for public health and economic prosperity and communities should not be left to fend for themselves when it comes to removing dangerous contaminants.

“While the federal government fails to set national standards and guidelines for safe drinking water, New York is prepared to take action in the absence of federal leadership.

“This funding will ensure communities have the technology and support they need to provide their residents with quality drinking water, creating a safer, healthier New York for all.”

The Governor has also directed the Department of Health, Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Environmental Facilities Corporation to offer technical assistance to communities, enabling them to assess system needs and apply for grant funding.

In a move to reduce water infrastructure project expenses, the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation is also offering the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund with zero or low-interest financing.