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9/23/2021
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Sen. Algiere, Reps. Kennedy and Azzinaro call on governor to provide funding for Westerly projects
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STATE HOUSE — The Westerly legislative delegation is calling on the governor to unlock federal COVID money to help the town fund some projects, particularly the upgrade of the Westerly Wastewater Treatment Facility.
Senate Minority Leader Dennis L. Algiere (R-Dist. 38, Charlestown, South Kingstown, Westerly), along with House Speaker Pro Tempore Brian Patrick Kennedy (D-Dist. 38, Hopkinton, Westerly) and Rep. Samuel A. Azzinaro (D-Dist. 37, Westerly) would like Westerly to receive some of the funding, now that Gov. Dan McKee has indicated that it’s time to spend it.
The American Rescue Plan State Fiscal Recovery Fund includes $1.1 billion that was received by the state from the federal government to help turn the tide on the pandemic, address its economic fallout, and lay the foundation for a strong and equitable recovery.
“The governor has indicated that housing and public health should be a priority in the spending of these funds,” said Senator Algiere. “In Westerly, the wastewater treatment plant, which was constructed in 1957, is in need of upgrading, and that’s an integral part of new housing and a perfect example of how the state should be investing in its infrastructure.”
The facility treats an average of 2.5 million gallons of wastewater per day, serving approximately 16,500 customers in Westerly.
“House and Senate committees have begun hearings on proposals on just how this money should be spent,” said Representative Kennedy. “As the governor has said, some of that money should be utilized to build hundreds of units of affordable housing. It is therefore imperative that we address the infrastructure that supports such housing. Wastewater treatment should be at the top of that list.”
“I look forward to furthering the conversation with the governor about how these funds can be utilized and invested to bolster the state’s economy and improve the lives of Rhode Islanders,” said Representative Azzinaro. “The General Assembly is ready to partner with the governor to make these determinations so towns like Westerly will be ready for the demands of the future.”
For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922
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