Congressman Mike Lawler applauded the passage of the annual Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), highlighting its significance for communities in New York’s 17th Congressional District. The bipartisan, bicameral legislation includes authorizing language for several transformative water infrastructure projects across the Hudson Valley, including $4 million for restoring Lake Suzanne in the Town of Ramapo.
“I’m thrilled that we were able to pass authorizing language for critical clean water investments in the Hudson Valley through this year’s Water Resources Development Act,” said Congressman Lawler. “These funds will prove transformational once appropriated for communities in Rockland, Putnam, and Westchester counties.”
The Lake Suzanne project aims to dredge sediments and reduce algae to improve water quality and restore the balance of the local ecosystem. Specifically, the initiative will address accumulated pollution and algae that have significantly impaired the water body.
Lawler emphasized his commitment to clean water initiatives, noting the tens of millions of dollars already secured for the region during his tenure. “I will continue to build on these efforts when we return for the 119th Congress,” he stated.
Other key projects authorized under WRDA include a $10 million investment in the Hallocks Mill Sewer District Extension in Yorktown, which will enhance water quality in Sparkle Lake and the Croton Reservoir by upgrading water and wastewater infrastructure. This project addresses septic failures that pose public health risks, benefiting both recreational resources and drinking water supplies for millions of metropolitan residents.
In the Town of Carmel, $3.45 million was allocated for Sewer District 4 to expand stormwater management capabilities. The upgrades aim to mitigate untreated sewage risks and increase lake storage capacity before significant weather events. Similarly, a $2 million allocation for Brady Avenue in Mount Pleasant will fund infrastructure improvements, including stormwater basin construction, to address chronic flooding and enhance water quality.
The Village of Sleepy Hollow will also benefit from $2 million allocated for the North Washington-Valley Street Drainage System Repair. This initiative will improve stormwater management and mitigate flooding, particularly aiding vulnerable populations and reducing economic risks to the community.
In addition to these projects, the WRDA also includes funding for Army Corps of Engineers studies. One study will address recurring flooding along Sparkill Creek in Orangetown, providing critical analysis to safeguard infrastructure, residential areas, and utilities. Another study will focus on the Pascack Brook and Memorial Park in Spring Valley, evaluating solutions to reduce flooding in this heavily used recreational facility. The Valley View Drive Restoration project will conduct a wetland restoration feasibility study to address lead contamination in public and private water supplies in the region.
These projects are set to address pressing water quality, flood control, and environmental challenges, benefiting residents and ecosystems across the Hudson Valley. Congressman Lawler remains committed to securing appropriations for these initiatives and continuing to advocate for the infrastructure needs of his district.