Carmel, NY – U.S. Rep. John Hall (D-Dover) announced today that the landmark Economic Recovery package he helped Congress pass earlier this year will help provide $13 million to fund a project that will correct a longstanding issue of failing septic systems along the shores of Peach Lake, which is part of the New York City water supply. The money will support the design and construction of the collection system, pump station, and treatment plant that will improve the water quality of Peach Lake, eliminate health risks and stop the lake's degradation.

 

"With a new sewer system and water treatment plant, the residents of the Peach Lake community will thankfully no longer have to worry about having safe and clean water," said Congressman Hall. "Funding clean water infrastructure is a smart investment that will help protect public health and create long term value for years to come. This project will create local jobs."

 

The jobs created by the Peach Lake project will include pipeline contractors, site work contractors, masons, chemical suppliers, propane suppliers, plumbers, electricians, HVAC technicians, painters, drillers, surveyors, engineers, accountants, attorneys, mechanical engineers, equipment suppliers and manufacturers, as well as laborers.

 

The Peach Lake Sewer District has been plagued with pollution that is contaminating the drinking water and degrading the lake. Peach Lake has been on the list of New York's impaired water bodies since 1998. Septic systems around the lakeshore are failing and discharging into the lake. The construction of a new sewer system and new water treatment plan is the only option to eliminate the health risks and stop the lake degradation.

 

Amy Rosmarin, Peach Lake Sewer District Town Board Liaison said, "We are thrilled that we could get this grant and thereby reduce the per household annual fee. We can't thank Congressman Hall enough for his help in procuring these funds."

 

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