In November, Senator Mario R. Mattera (2nd Senate District) joined Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim and members of the Smithtown Town Board to announce the delivery of an additional $300,000 in state funding to support recently installed sewer infrastructure in St. James.  This brings the total Senator Mattera has secured for this project to $900,000.

The funding in question is part of a $3.9 million grant that was secured by former State Senate John Flanagan to offset the costs associated with work along Lake Avenue but was delayed by New York State due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related challenges.

Now, with the recent adoption of the New York State 2026-27 Budget, Senator Mattera is committed to working closely with the Town and its leaders to make sure the residents of Smithtown see more of the money that New York State promised them many years ago.  

“The Town of Smithtown was promised state support for this critical infrastructure investment, and I remain committed to ensuring that promise is honored for our residents.  This project has helped bring both residents and local businesses into the 21st century, and I am proud to work with Supervisor Wehrheim and the Town Board as they strengthen the business district while protecting our environment.  With Smithtown’s strong leadership and strategic investment, St. James will continue to grow and create a cleaner, more prosperous future for our community.”

“Senator Mattera has never forgotten the promise made to the people of Smithtown. Year after year, he has fought to make our community whole after we lost this critical grant funding during the COVID pandemic, which happened before his time in office.  His persistence is unmatched — he is truly unstoppable when it comes to delivering for our residents and small businesses.  The Lake Avenue sewer project is vital to the long-term success of the St. James business district, and thanks to Senator Mattera’s unwavering advocacy, we are once again seeing the State honor its commitment.  On behalf of the Town Board and our entire community, I thank Senator Mattera for standing with Smithtown and ensuring these funds are restored where they belong,” stated Supervisor Wehrheim 

“New York State must honor its commitment to the residents of the Town of Smithtown and, working with Supervisor Wehrheim and his team, we will make sure that this money is delivered.  This money was promised and that promise must be fulfilled.  My office has continually been able to chip away but it is time for New York State to honor its work,” added Senator Mattera.

The Lake Avenue sewer project is a major component of the future of St. James.  As the Town’s largest roadway improvement effort in more than 40 years, the completed project has received strong community support.  The upgraded roadway and surrounding area now provides smoother, more convenient access for visitors, connecting shoppers directly to the boutiques, restaurants, and professional offices that shape the hamlet’s character.

Key improvements included new sidewalks and the installation of two pipes placed approximately seventeen feet underground to support water and wastewater service, helping ensure long-term reliability of the Town’s infrastructure.  The project also improved accessibility by relocating utility poles that previously blocked sections of curb ramps, removing barriers for individuals with disabilities and enhancing pedestrian safety along the roadway.

Beyond utility upgrades, this sewer investment serves as a catalyst for broader revitalization. With essential infrastructure in place, St. James is well positioned to attract new businesses, expand economic activity, and improve safety and quality of life for residents and visitors.

Senator Mattera concluded by praising Supervisor Wehrheim for keeping the project moving during the pandemic-related pause: “Supervisor Wehrheim and the Town Board stayed focused on completing this important work and that saved time while preserving the jobs of the hardworking men and women in our region.  That level of commitment must be matched by New York State by fulfillment of the grant promised in 2019, and I will continue fighting to ensure the State follows through.  This funding is not just about pipes in the ground, it is about laying the groundwork for a brighter tomorrow in the Town of Smithtown.”