The local need for a share of the $1 trillion federal infrastructure fund approved by Congress last year was the topic of conversation in a recent episode of “What About Water,” a special podcast of the Suffolk County Water Authority.
Hosted by authority Director Jeff Szabo, the episode features representatives of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and focuses on upgrading the nation’s water supply infrastructure and the elimination of contaminants such as lead and polyfluoroalkyls, toxic chemicals known as PFAS that are turning up more and more in the local drinking water.
“The challenges facing the country's water infrastructure are immense,” said Szabo, who noted that the $1 trillion federal commitment has made this “water’s moment in history.”
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Speaking on the podcast, the EPA’s Aisha Sexton-Simms, supervisor of the State Revolving Fund Program, said $84 million has been allocated to New York under the infrastructure bill so far with the EPA looking to work with local agencies to facilitate the flow of cash. She noted that the funds, in the form of grants, will lower the impact on ratepayers as system improvement efforts, including new mains, tanks, testing, and filtration systems, are pursued.
Szabo noted that the monies set aside for water resources in the infrastructure bill will be the most ever by the federal government and don’t require a state match. With the funds come EPA requirements for PFAS testing and reporting to show that funded projects are having a positive impact on water quality.
“The bad news is there is an urgent need to invest in water,” Szabo said. “The good news is the federal government is stepping up to meet the challenge.”
“What About Water” and other SCWA podcasts can be accessed at: www.scwa.com/podcast.