Bill Providing $4.5 Million for Oradell Sewer Infrastructure Improvements Clears Committee

Legislation sponsored by Senator Bob Gordon that would provide the Borough of Oradell with $4.5 million in financing for sewer infrastructure upgrades within the borough – part of an effort to help local communities throughout the state finance much-needed water and sewer projects – was unanimously approved Monday by a Senate committee.

“This will provide the Borough of Oradell with the up-front funding necessary to undertake a major infrastructure project to ensure a safer and more reliable water and sewer system for local residents,” said Gordon.

The allocation is part of a program to provide low-interest loans through the N.J. Environmental Infrastructure Trust (EIT) and the state Department of Environmental Protection to local governments, public authorities or public water utilities for a portion of eligible environmental infrastructure projects.

“At a time when so many municipalities are struggling financially to keep costs down, this will provide the boost that is needed to begin work on this project and to create jobs and economic activity.”

Under the bill (S-2816) Oradell would receive $4.5 million for a Clean Water Project, which will include the repair and rehabilitation of the water and sewer system.

Since its inception in 1985, the EIT in partnership with the DEP has invested $5.97 billion in upgrading treatment facilities, a record that has created more than 110,000 construction jobs throughout the state.

“The financing that will be provided under this legislation is critical to towns and cities across New Jersey, including for the borough of Oradell, which desperately need upgrades to their infrastructure," Gordon said.

The bill was approved by the Senate Environment & Energy Committee. It now heads to the full Senate for consideration.

"These low-interest loans will help to improve the water and sewer systems, while also saving taxpayer money. At the same time, this project will spur local economic activity,” said Senator Gordon. “This is a real win for the borough and for its residents.”

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