KINGSTON – The Ulster County Legislature Tuesday evening unanimously approved a resolution calling for the study and assessment of the quality of water and sewer systems across Ulster County. This research follows a series of 14 investments made to municipal water and sewer systems across the county made by the county legislature through the American Rescue Plan Act totaling nearly $7 million. Towns where these infrastructure investments include:
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The county legislature also funded the expansion of water and sewer systems to the Quality Inn Supportive Housing Development for $2 million, with the intention of continuing this momentum based off the results of this assessment.
“It has been decades since Ulster County last conducted a comprehensive review of its complete water and sewer infrastructure. With growing communities and new environmental challenges, it is time we take a fresh look to ensure our systems are sustainable, equitable, and capable of supporting future growth,” said Chairman Peter Criswell, author of the Resolution. “This assessment is not only about protecting public health but also about making smart investments that drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for all residents.”
“A significant roadblock to both economic and housing development in Ulster County is that we lack data and understanding on our current capacity of water and sewer infrastructure. By allowing our Planning Department to study the capability, age, and coverage of these systems, we can highlight prime opportunities for investment in housing and employment opportunities across the County,” said Legislator Megan Sperry, chairwoman of the Economic Development, Planning, Education, Employment, Arts & Agriculture Committee.
Included in the resolution is the request and legislative intent that this process be allocated in the proposed 2025 budget so this work may begin as soon as possible.