BY JEFF CHUDZINSKINorth Country This Week

MASSENA -- The town of Massena has been awarded a $3 million loan and $1.5 million grant as part of the plan to create the South Raquette Water District.

The announcement came on Feb. 23 from Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirstin Gillibrand.

“From Greene to Massena, this funding is flowing to rural communities across Upstate New York to support critical upgrades to water infrastructure, ensuring all New Yorkers have access to clean water and drinking water systems. By putting federal resources toward modern water infrastructure, these federal dollars are giving our rural families, businesses, and farmers the contaminant-free water they deserve and need to thrive,” said Senator Schumer.

The funding is part of an $82 million federal aid package that "will benefit town residents by providing access to public water and will improve the health, welfare, and safety of the residents."

The South Raquette Water District is expected to cost $9 million but with the influx of federal funds, the town is on track to secure enough funding through grants and low or no-interest loans to cover the costs.

According to Barton & Loguidice Senior Associate Matthew Cooper, 161 equivalent dwelling units will be serviced by the new water district.

The town currently has a $1.8 million grant pending, which Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has been assisting the town with, Cooper told board members recently.

As for other grants, the town also has a $1.8 million and $1.5 million loan through the USDA, however they will only be able to accept one, Cooper said.

“You’ve been offered a $1.5 million additional grant from USDA Rural Development. We still have a pending $1.8 million grant. That is the State Tribal Assistance Grant through Elise Stefanik’s office. It appears you’re going to get that. However, the wheels turn really slow at the federal level to actually send you an official award,” Cooper previously said.

Now with the grant and loan award announcement, board members have a much clearer picture for funding the project, allowing them to replace the $1.5 million grant with the new, larger grant as Cooper previously suggested.

Massena was also previously awarded a Bipartisan Infrastructure Law General Supplemental valued at $5 million, along with a $4.27 million loan with a 30-year term at 0% interest.