Communities across Cayuga, Ontario, Seneca, Schuyler, Wayne, and Yates counties are set to benefit from significant funding through the latest round of the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. The grants will support a variety of infrastructure, environmental, and revitalization projects aimed at improving water quality, addressing erosion, and fostering sustainable development.
In Cayuga County, projects include a $252,436 investment in wetland restoration at Owasco Flats Wildlife Management Area to enhance habitat for migratory birds and improve water quality​. Additionally, the Cayuga County Soil and Water Conservation District will receive $30,544 for a Seneca River Watershed culvert assessment to address flood risks and aquatic connectivity​. Another $400,000 will support shoreline stabilization efforts along 3,000 feet of Cayuga Lake​.
Ontario County will see several key infrastructure upgrades, including $4.9 million for a sewer system extension in Phelps​, $1 million for wastewater disinfection improvements in the Village of Phelps​, and $340,000 for roadside stabilization efforts to reduce sediment runoff into nearby lakes​. Streambank restoration along Naples Creek will also receive $50,000 to combat erosion and enhance aquatic habitats​.
In Seneca County, multiple wastewater treatment and infrastructure projects are prioritized. The Village of Interlaken will receive $7.4 million to replace its wastewater treatment plant​, while $5.3 million will fund a new sewer collection system in Fayette​. Another $3.9 million will upgrade the Willard Wastewater Treatment Plant, reducing phosphorus levels in Seneca Lake​.
Schuyler County will focus on water quality and resilience projects, with efforts aimed at improving sewer systems and stabilizing critical streambanks to prevent erosion and nutrient loading​.
Wayne County is set to benefit from $118,028 for the Canandaigua Outlet Streambank Stabilization Project. The initiative will repair damage caused by the loss of ash trees from the Emerald Ash Borer and restore the riparian corridor to reduce nutrient and sediment runoff​. Additionally, the Town of Macedon will receive $162,000 for pre-development activities to revitalize its downtown area and promote mixed-use developments​.
In Yates County, a notable $1.1 million grant will secure the acquisition of the Yates Lakeshore Preserve, protecting drinking water quality and preserving critical shoreline landscapes along Lake Ontario​.
These projects underscore a regional commitment to sustainable infrastructure, environmental preservation, and enhanced community resilience, ensuring long-term benefits for residents and ecosystems across the Finger Lakes region.
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