U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced $3.6 million in federal funding on January 8, 2026, to support critical water infrastructure projects across Western New York. The awards focus on protecting public health through lead service line replacement, expanding water access, and modernizing aging wastewater treatment systems.
The federal funding, appropriated through the 2026 Interior spending bill, supports three distinct infrastructure initiatives across Erie County and its municipalities:
Public Health Priority: The Erie County Water Authority will receive the largest allocation of $1.6 million to identify and replace lead service lines throughout the county. Lead service lines remain a significant public health concern, as lead can leach into drinking water, particularly affecting children and pregnant women.
Project Scope: The funding will support systematic replacement of lead service lines in communities across the county. Lead service line replacement is among the highest priorities for EPA-funded water infrastructure work, as lead exposure from drinking water is entirely preventable through proper infrastructure upgrades.
Public Health Impact: According to the EPA, there are millions of lead service lines in use across the United States. States and water authorities have identified lead service line replacement as critical infrastructure work, requiring systematic coordination with homeowners and municipalities.
Project Overview: The Town of Ellicott will receive $1 million in federal funding to construct new water mains that will extend public water service to the Fluvanna area. Currently, residents in the Fluvanna area rely on individual private wells or other water sources.
Benefits of Expansion: Expanding public water access provides multiple advantages:
Timeline & Construction: Water main construction typically spans 12-18 months, depending on soil conditions, terrain, and distance of service extensions. Engineering and design phases generally precede construction by 6-9 months.
Project Scope: The Town of Elma received $1 million in federal funding to consolidate two separate aged wastewater treatment plants and replace aging infrastructure in partnership with Iroquois Central School District.
Consolidation Benefits: Rather than operating two separate facilities, the consolidation will create a single, modern wastewater treatment system. Benefits include:
Environmental Impact: Modern wastewater treatment plants incorporate advanced filtration and disinfection systems that meet or exceed EPA discharge standards, protecting local waterways and groundwater resources.
According to Senator Chuck Schumer's statement on the awards: "From extending public water service in the Town of Ellicott to replacing lead service lines across Erie County, these projects will support communities throughout Western New York. I will always fight to keep New York's drinking water clean and our communities safe and healthy."
The federal funding represents part of New York's allocation from the 2026 Interior spending bill, part of a broader federal commitment to upgrade aging water infrastructure nationwide. The Interior Appropriations Bill includes billions in funding for water infrastructure, prioritizing lead removal and modernization of aging systems.
Water infrastructure investment has become a major federal priority under recent appropriations bills. Key focus areas include:
Western New York has historically qualified for significant federal water infrastructure funding due to aging systems in many communities and documented water quality challenges.
Contractors working on water infrastructure projects funded through federal sources should be aware of several requirements:
Lead service line replacement work carries specific OSHA requirements for lead-contaminated material handling and dust control. Contractors must maintain certifications and proper safety protocols for this specialized work.
Water infrastructure projects funded through Interior Appropriations typically move through the following phases:
Industry Insight: Westside Construction Group has extensive experience with water infrastructure projects, including municipal water system upgrades, wastewater treatment plant construction, and utility main installation across Upstate New York. WCG understands federal funding compliance, prevailing wage requirements, and complex coordination with public agencies. For consultation on your water infrastructure project: (585) 440-0304 or www.buildwcg.com
For more on Western New York infrastructure investments, see our coverage of recent water system upgrades.
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