Today, Rep. Nick LaLota (R-Suffolk County) released the following statement after securing over $1.38 million for flood mitigation in the Town of Smithtown: $1 million to improve Main Street Smithtown Stormwater Infrastructure and $384,800 for the Kings Park Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) Business District Stormwater Infrastructure Project.
“I’m proud to deliver on my promise to always put Suffolk County First by securing critical federal funding for Smithtown and Kings Park. This funding will ensure safer living conditions for residents by bolstering resilience against future environmental challenges like flooding and improving water quality,” said LaLota. “I appreciate Supervisor Wehrheim’s collaboration to help our shared constituents. I remain committed to advocating for resources that enhance families' overall quality of life across Suffolk County.”
“I am truly grateful to Rep. LaLota for this exceptional win for the people of Smithtown and our precious waterways. Congressman Nick LaLota has brought our tax dollars back to the people of Smithtown, as a freshman representative. This is no small task and reflective of his commitment to deliver for his constituents,” said Smithtown Town Supervisor Edward Wehrheim. “Updated Stormwater Infrastructure is essential to protect aquatic life and water quality from hazardous materials and chemicals like insecticides, litter, motor oils, and road salts. It is also vital to prevent flooding and dangerous road conditions which can wreak havoc on the cost of living for residents and be dangerous for motorists. This funding will aid the Town in completing two major infrastructure projects in Smithtown and Kings Park and we could not be happier to roll our sleeves up and get to work.”
Background:
Funding for the Kings Park project will allow for flood mitigation at the Kings Park Long Island Railroad (LIRR) Business District municipal lot, which will reduce stormwater contamination in the Long Island Sound Watershed.
Funding for the Town of Smithtown project will allow for the installation of sixteen drainage pools and five catch basins for flood mitigation in the NYS Route 25 municipal lot. These pools would reduce runoff into the Nissequogue River tributary and, ultimately, the Long Island Sound. Additionally, this project would prevent recurring flood damage for Main Street businesses after heavy rainfall.
The Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Appropriations bill provided both projects' funding and was signed into law in March.
Previously, LaLota announced $1 million in federal funding for the Village of Southampton’s Sewer System Installation project.
For a list of all funding secured by Rep. LaLota in FY24, click HERE.