Senator Mattera Secures $600,000 Grant for Sewers in St. James

Senator Mario R. Mattera (2nd Senate District) joined with Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim to announce the delivery of $600,000 in state funding for recently installed sewage pipe in St. James. Senator Mattera secured the funding to cover the cost of work on Lake Avenue, which was originally secured by former Senator John Flanagan but that funding has been held in Albany due to COVID and other factors.

"The delivery of this funding will allow the Town of Smithtown to continue their efforts to bring this wonderful area into the 21st Century. I am proud to work with Supervisor Wehrheim on this and so many other projects for the residents we jointly represent,” said Senator Mattera. “These funds are not just about infrastructure; they are about laying the groundwork for a brighter future. With the right resources, our businesses can thrive, and our town can witness unparalleled growth and prosperity.”

“We are truly fortunate to have an advocate in Albany like our fearless Senator, Mario Mattera. When he was first elected, his day one commitment to us was that he would secure every dollar of the $3.9 million that the state owed to the people of Smithtown. And that is what he is doing. This funding is just a start. With this first installment, we can be made whole, complete major infrastructure projects and finish our goal of revitalizing the downtown areas of our Township,” stated Supervisor Wehrheim.

The renewal of Lake Avenue is a monumental rebuild. The Town's most significant road project in over 40 years was recently completed to rave reviews. The newly renovated Lake Avenue now boasts hassle-free accessibility for shoppers, leading them straight to the myriad of boutiques, restaurants, and professional offices that define the hamlet's charm.

Additional enhancements include newly laid sidewalks, the installation of two pipes buried approximately seventeen feet underground for water and waste, ensuring the town's infrastructure remains intact for the foreseeable future. Furthermore, previously obstructive utility poles, which partly blocked some curb ramps for people with disabilities, have been strategically removed.

The core objective behind this generous grant for sewers is not just about modernizing utilities but revitalizing the entire St. James community. With this vital infrastructure in place, St. James stands poised to attract a diverse range of businesses, ensuring both increased access and enhanced safety for its residents and visitors.