Senator Lea Webb Announces $9 Million in State Funding to Support Flood Protection Projects in the Southern Tier

(Southern Tier, NY)- Today, Senator Lea Webb (SD52) announced that Broome County will receive state funding through the ‘Restoration and Flood Risk’ category of the historic $4.2 billion Clean Air, Clean Water and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022. This funding will support projects to bolster the resilience of existing flood infrastructure, such as levees and floodwalls, helping to ensure these structures’ long-term effectiveness in protecting communities from flooding.

 “I know how devastating floods have been for families and small businesses in the Southern Tier,” said Senator Lea Webb. “This $4 million investment in the City of Binghamton and $5 million investment for the Village of Whitney Point will strengthen critical flood control systems, making our communities safer, more resilient, and better prepared for future storms.” 

 Said Binghamton Mayor Jared Kraham, “Binghamton suffered catastrophic river flooding in 2006 and 2011. As Mayor, I've continued to invest in flood mitigation efforts. These funds are critical to further future-proof Binghamton against the impacts of climate change, and support our residents and neighborhoods during natural disasters.”  

 Said Village of Whitney Point Mayor Jason Somers, “This investment represents a major step forward for Whitney Point. Our flood control system has protected this community for generations, but aging infrastructure and more extreme weather demand proactive upgrades. We’re incredibly grateful to Governor Hochul and Senator Webb for their leadership and commitment to rural communities like ours. This $5 million investment will ensure our levee system continues to safeguard homes, businesses, and lives—not just today, but for decades to come. It’s a clear example of smart, forward-thinking government at work, and the people of Whitney Point are thankful to be included in this regional push for greater resiliency.” 

Senate District 52 received the following funding through the ‘Restoration and Flood Risk’ category of the historic $4.2 billion Clean Air, Clean Water and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022.

• $4 million for the City of Binghamton to make improvements to the Binghamton Flood Control Project located along the Susquehanna and Chenango Rivers in the City of Binghamton. To ensure the City of Binghamton has a resilient and working flood protection system, rehabilitation of the floodwalls is needed. The construction includes the replacement of two floodwall panels, replacing deteriorated concrete, and application of a protective coating on the floodwalls to extend the useful life of the concrete walls.    
• $5 million for the Village of Whitney Point to make improvements to the Whitney Point Flood Control Project located on the Tioughnioga River in the village of Whitney Point. The project will upgrade the manual gate system and install a new swing gate closure structure to more efficiently and effectively close the existing stoplog railroad closure.   

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