Governor announces $17M for Erie County sewer expansion; millions for other WNY projects

Gov. Kathy Hochul is sending millions to Western New York to improve water and sewer systems, with the largest chunk of Western New York grant money going to improve an Erie County sewer treatment plant that, among other things, is responsible for handling all sewage flowing from the current and future Buffalo Bills stadiums.

Hochul announced Tuesday that $17 million is going toward the upgrade and expansion of the Southtowns Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant. The Hamburg-based plant is responsible for transforming sewer water from those who live in the towns of Hamburg, Orchard Park, Boston and Eden into clean water.

The state’s contribution will assist with the costs for one of the most expensive and underappreciated investments that Erie County is making over the next few years. Upgrades to the plant’s capacity are considered important to ongoing anti-pollution efforts and the health of Lake Erie.

Hochul also announced that the Niagara Falls Water Board is receiving a $5 million grant for system improvements that include replacing several old water mains in Niagara Falls, and for a replacement water tank, and roof, filter and chemical system upgrades at the city’s water treatment plant. The project is expected to provide important backup water storage and improve pressure and flow throughout the water system.

Millions are also being allocated to North Tonawanda for sewer treatment plant upgrades and to the Town of West Seneca for sewer rehabilitation work. Money would also flow to Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany counties.