Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senators Jean Stanfield and Richard Codey that would allocate funds to the Department of Environmental Protection to support water infrastructure projects was approved by the Senate Environment and Energy Committee.

Bipartisan legislation sponsored by Sens. Jean Stanfield and Richard Codey that would allocate funds to the DEP to support water infrastructure projects was approved by the Senate Environment and Energy Committee. (Pixabay)

“This legislation is crucial for approving and financing important environmental infrastructure projects that protect our state’s drinking water and waterways,” said Stanfield (R-8). “The funds authorized by this legislation will not only create jobs in New Jersey, but will preserve and protect the environment—which is so critical to our quality of life. Ultimately, providing an affordable financial strategy to upgrade critical infrastructure throughout the state will protect the public health of all New Jerseyans.”

Stanfield’s legislation, S-2734, would allocate certain federal and state funds to the Department of Environmental Protection for the purpose of implementing the State Fiscal Year 2023 New Jersey Environmental Infrastructure Financing Program—which is expected to finance up to $2.07 billion in water infrastructure projects.

“Environmental infrastructure project loans include millions in funding for clean water projects for the Evesham MUA, Medford Lakes, and Pemberton Township in the 8th District,” added Stanfield. “Without the financing provided by this bill, these expensive, but necessary projects could be postponed for years. This funding will make sure everything is completed in a timely manner and will protect the flow of clean drinking water to communities throughout the state.”