Sen. Seward Delivers Funding for Hartwick, N.Y. Water System

State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I/Ref-Oneonta) today joined officials from the Town of Hartwick to announce a $1 million state grant to fund major upgrades to the town’s water system.

“Infrastructure improvements are costly, but they are vital public health, economic development, and environmental necessities,” said Senator Seward. “The Town of Hartwick Water District is in need of a significant update that will meet current and future needs. This state grant will help ensure that the upgrades will take place without a major rate hike or tax increase for those who rely on the system.”

Town of Hartwick Supervisor Robert O’Brien said, “We have an aging water system in the Town of Hartwick which has experienced substantial problems in recent years and it is essential that we take steps now to prepare for the future. As we developed plans to upgrade our water system, we worked diligently to balance the project costs with concerns over raising rates for residents and businesses. Thanks to Senator Seward we are now able to move forward with this much-need infrastructure project while keeping costs to users in check.”

The $1 million capital grant secured by Senator Seward through the Department of State will be used to help finance a comprehensive, multi-year update that will include: replacement of water mains, replacement of auxiliary well; replacement of primary well house building; acquisition and installation of new mixers for existing water storage tank; installation of emergency backup generator for primary well pump; replace or repair existing water meters. The total cost of the improvement project is estimated at $1.35 million.

“Clean, safe drinking water is essential for public health and to encourage economic growth. Town of Hartwick officials have done their homework and prepared a comprehensive strategy to meet current needs while planning for future growth in an environmentally sound manner. I am extremely pleased to partner with the Town of Hartwick on this crucial infrastructure project,” concluded Seward.

Work on the project is expected to be begin in spring 2019