US EPA funds water projects in New York, New Jersey and Puerto Rico

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has provided $197m in funds to New York, $74m to New Jersey and $26.8m to Puerto Rico, in order to improve water infrastructure.

The fund provided to New York will be used to upgrade sewage plants and drinking water systems in the state. The EPA also provided $340m for the state for Hurricane Sandy resiliency projects.

EPA regional administrator Judith Enck said: "Since 1989, the EPA has provided more than $5.7bn for New York State water projects.

"This funding helps New York communities upgrade their drinking water and sewage treatment systems, improving the environment and protecting public health."

The EPA also approved a $74m grant to New Jersey, which will be used to upgrade sewage plants and drinking water systems in the state. The state also received $229m for Hurricane Sandy resiliency projects.

In addition, the EPA has awarded $26.8m to Puerto Rico, which will be used to improve sewage facilities and drinking water systems throughout the commonwealth.

Enck added: "Since 1989, the EPA has provided more than $705m for Puerto Rico water projects.

"This funding helps communities in Puerto Rico upgrade their drinking water and sewage treatment systems, improving the environment and protecting public health."

EPA noted that it offers low-interest loans for water quality protection projects to make improvements to wastewater treatment systems.