U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $1,260,794.59 in federal funding for the Kensico Reservoir in Westchester County to repair damages caused by Hurricane Sandy. This funding was provided through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The funds will be allocated to the New York Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and allow the state to make improvements to the reservoir following its damage in the storm.
“It is not enough to simply rebuild and repair; we must also prepare ourselves for the next storm and the next potential flood. That’s exactly what this federal grant will do by helping ensure this reservoir is fully restored and strengthened in order to protect against the next storm,” said Senator Schumer. “This federal funding will protect the Kensico Reservoir and allow it to deliver the drinking water that millions of New York City residents rely on each day.”
“These federal funds will allow New York City to move forward with critical water infrastructure renovations at Kensico Reservoir,” said Senator Gillibrand, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “Our communities still feel the devastating effects of Superstorm Sandy; these funds are an essential investment towards building necessary safeguards for when the next storm hits to help maintain water quality and ensure residents have safe drinking water. These renovations will help safeguard and reinforce our water infrastructure.”
This funding is being provided under authority of Section 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Act. This act was signed into law to deliver federal assistance to states and localities during declared major disasters or emergencies. Assistance can take the form of direct federal aid in terms of services, grants, and technical support, or as reimbursement for services provided by or contracted for by affected states.