New York Construction Report staff writer
Construction is complete on an $11 million wastewater collection and treatment facilities improvement project in the Village of Waddington, a major infrastructure upgrade aimed at protecting public health and strengthening climate resilience along the St. Lawrence River.
The project, funded through New York State’s Resiliency and Economic Development Initiative (REDI), brings Waddington’s aging wastewater infrastructure into compliance with modern standards. Village officials say the upgrades are expected to reduce the risk of flooding, improve environmental performance and support future economic development.
“New York State is committed to building stronger, more resilient shoreline communities along the St. Lawrence River and across the state,” Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement. “Through the REDI program, we are delivering smart, forward-looking solutions that help communities thrive in the face of climate challenges.”
The Village of Waddington owns and operates the wastewater collection system and treatment plant. Due to its proximity to the St. Lawrence River, the village had experienced recurring infrastructure problems during periods of high water levels and flooding, which led to infiltration and inflow issues. The absence of storm sewers exacerbated the problem, causing stormwater to overload the sanitary sewer system.
Flood resiliency measures implemented as part of the project included:
- Replacement and rehabilitation of 100-year-old clay tile sewer mains and manholes to reduce groundwater infiltration;
- Installation of new storm sewers and catch basins to direct runoff from sump pumps and roof drains away from the sanitary system;
- Upgrades to all seven pump stations, including new pumps, controls, meters, alarms, and building improvements;
- Major improvements to the main pump station, including the addition of a permanent emergency generator;
- Repairs and upgrades to the treatment plant, including a new 700-foot outfall pipe and a modernized disinfection system.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation oversaw the project, while grant funding was administered by the Environmental Facilities Corporation.
“This critical investment in Waddington’s wastewater infrastructure is a powerful example of how the REDI Program strengthens community resilience while safeguarding water quality and public health,” DEC Commissioner and REDI Co-Chair Amanda Lefton said. “By addressing vulnerabilities worsened by flooding, this project ensures long-term environmental protection and supports sustainable growth in the North Country.”
Empire State Development President and CEO Hope Knight added that the project reflects the state’s broader strategy to support shoreline communities through sustainable infrastructure improvements.
Waddington, located in St. Lawrence County, is one of dozens of municipalities along Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River to benefit from the REDI program, which was launched in 2019 in response to severe flooding that impacted the region.
