Schumer Announces Federal Dollars Coming To The Town Of Massena For Water District

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced that a $304,000 grant and a $134,000 loan were awarded to the Town of Massena to assist in the construction of the Old River Road Water District. The funds are being awarded through the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Rural Development program as Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant.

"This is great news for the Town of Massena and the entire community," Schumer said. "The water system is critical to the livelihood of the community and the health of local residents. This funding for the water system will improve the quality of life in the area."

We are very grateful for Senator Schumer for making this a reality by stepping in and smoothing the path for us, said Gary Edwards, supervisor for the Town of Massena. This project has been two years behind schedule because of various glitches and without the Senators help and diligence, progress would have been delayed at least another year. There a lot of very appreciative people out there who have been waiting for this moment. This is also a big boost for the area in terms of development because many projects have been on hold while builders waited for the completion of this water district.

The federal dollars will be used for the construction of water distribution lines within an area known as the Old River Road Water District and provide water purchased from the Village of Massena. Currently, residents in this area are using private individual wells which have experienced water quality and quantity problems for years.

The USDA Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal Grant program works to reduce water and waste disposal costs to a reasonable level for rural users. The Grant program also sends funds to help develop waste and waste disposal systems in rural areas and towns. Grants can be used to construct, repair, modify, expand, and improve water supply and distribution systems; acquire needed land and water sources; and pay for legal and engineering fees when necessary to build facilities.