Niagara Falls could receive help from the state in its effort to improve the wastewater treatment plant.
Governor Cuomo unveiled a proposal Tuesday that would accelerate improvements at the plant.
The 7th proposal of the 2018 State of the State calls for a $20 million investment to launch Phase One of the wastewater system overhaul.
The Governor's proposal also provides $500,000 to expedite two studies that are evaluating both of the plant's discharges and treatment systems.
"The impacts of our aging water infrastructure became intolerable this year after multiple discharges discolored the pristine waters at Niagara Falls," Governor Cuomo said. "We have a responsibility to safeguard our natural resources and this administration will do everything in our power to protect the integrity of our water. This funding will help expedite these much-needed fixes, and help the Niagara Falls Water Board modernize its wastewater system."
The plant was constructed in the 1970s and serves 52,000 people. A discharge into the lower Niagara River at the base of Niagara Falls in July drew national attention. The Governor's Office says it was largely due to human error but made shed light on deteriorating infrastructure, outdated and failing equipment, and operational issues.
Following the discharges, Governor Cuomo directed the DEC to provide strict oversight of all operations at the plant and closely monitor for violations.
