THOMPSON  — Two critical sewer projects will move forward after the funding of a $51 million water infrastructure investment was granted.

This funding is intended to help improvements to the Kiamesha Sewer Treatment Plant, which was built in the 1970’s, and the Rock Hill Emerald Green Sewer Treatment Plant, which was built in the 1950s.

Both plants are in important need of upgrades to meet the current need of clean water standards, according to town leadership, as well as to provide consistent service to the communities for many years to come.

“This financing and grant package was truly a team effort with just under $21 million in Outright Grants and an equal amount in industry financing,” said Town of Thompson Supervisor Bill Rieber.

Borrowing on these projects will also be limited due to the substantial grant awards resulting in minimal impact of taxpayers who will actually pay the final bill, “it’s not us,” quipped Rieber.

“Infrastructure is the lifeblood of our community and our economy in many respects, including our health,” said Rieber.

The upgrades - in combination with improvements to pre-existing water and sewer facilities already in the pipeline, including Harris, Sackett Lake, Cold Spring Road, and Melody Lake - are poised to bring the Town of Thompson up to date with modern, efficient facilities and help secure a future with cleaner water.

Also present was EPA Region 2 Regional Administrator Lisa Garcia, New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation CEO Maureen A. Coleman, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Regional Director Kelly Turturro, and Sullivan County Chair Nadia Rajsz.

Garcia noted that 80 percent of these upgrades were possible through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

“Thank you to all of our elected officials on the hill who really made sure that ... we’re gonna get the funding to make sure we get upgrades to our infrastructure to carry out the work,” stated Garcia.

“It’s important because it’s a major upgrade to our sewer system,” said Michael Messenger, the Superintendent to the Town of Thompson water and Sewer Department. “The Town of Thompson services the largest business district in the Town. It will help with continued growth.”