City Council proposes $32.2M for wastewater and stormwater capital improvements

A significant funding request for New Bedford's wastewater and stormwater systems took center stage at the Finance Committee meeting on May 19, 2025. City officials are seeking an appropriation of $32.2 million to continue vital capital improvements, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the city's infrastructure to protect public health and the environment.

Sean, a representative from the Department of Public Infrastructure (DPI), outlined the critical need for this funding, noting that the city has invested approximately $220 million in wastewater and stormwater projects since 2016. He highlighted that these systems are essential for transporting wastewater and stormwater to treatment facilities, which are crucial for recreational activities in local waters.

The proposed funding will support five key projects, including the rehabilitation of the Wamsutta Street Pumping Station, which services several neighborhoods and has suffered from significant corrosion. Other projects include improvements to the collection system, enhancements to Sasaguan Pond to prevent algal blooms, the replacement of Turner's Pond Dam, and upgrades to the River Road sewer system.

Sean explained that these projects are part of a long-term plan approved by the EPA and MassDEP, aimed at reducing combined sewer overflow (CSO) discharges and improving water quality. He also noted that the city is under an administrative order from the EPA, and this funding request represents a crucial step toward fulfilling those obligations.

The committee discussed the coordination of these projects with other city initiatives to minimize disruptions and maximize funding efficiency. Sean confirmed that the city is actively working with utility companies to align infrastructure upgrades.

As the meeting concluded, the urgency of the funding request was clear, with a deadline of June 30 for approval to secure state funding. The council's decision will play a pivotal role in ensuring the continued improvement of New Bedford's water systems, safeguarding both public health and the environment for years to come.