New York faces a significant challenge with its aging water infrastructure. Some components of which date back hundreds of years and are constructed from outdated materials such as wood and lead. These antiquated systems not only result in costly repairs, but also pose considerable risks to public health for residents across the state.  

According to federal reports, a staggering 80 percent of New York State’s water infrastructure, particularly in the drinking water sector, is in dire need of repair, replacement, or rehabilitation.

The costs of addressing these issues continue to rise, and local municipalities are grappling with reduced federal funding. Since the 1980s, two-thirds of all water infrastructure investments have come from state and local governments due to federal disinvestment. 

This legislation would provide a dedicated funding stream for local governments to maintain and improve their water infrastructure. It does this by creating a companion program to the Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program (CHIPS), called the Safe Water Infrastructure Action Program (SWAP), which would offer assistance to counties and municipalities for drinking water, stormwater, and sanitary sewer infrastructure. 

The distribution formula takes into account the unique needs of each municipality, particularly those with older infrastructure. This equitable approach ensures that funding is allocated where it is most needed, enabling counties and municipalities to make meaningful progress in addressing infrastructure challenges. This is especially important for rural communities, which face distinct challenges when it comes to water infrastructure and rely on aging systems that are often undersized and underfunded. 

By ensuring that all counties have access to safe and reliable water systems, this legislation supports economic development, public health, and environmental sustainability in communities across New York State.