State Senators Thomas J. Herlihy, R-8 th District and John A. Kissel, R-7 th District, and State Representatives Robert W. Heagney, R-16 th District, Bob Farr, 19 th District, Richard F. Ferrari,
62 nd District, and Kevin Witkos, R-17 th District, today are announcing that funding in the amount of over $25 million will be allocated to the Town of Simsbury to assist with the costs associated with the upgrade of the Simsbury Waste Water Treatment Plant. According to the officials the funding, which is expected to be approved by the State Bond Commission on Friday, is the second component of the nearly $27 million project that will replace aged and obsolete equipment as well as expand sewer service. Last fall the Bond Commission approved $2 million in start up costs for the project.

"This is exactly what we've been asking for," said Sen. Herlihy. "Upgrading this facility is a major undertaking and I am very pleased that the project can move forward without interruption. The original equipment was designed decades ago and is outdated and does not meet the current environmental regulations that could threaten the water quality of nearby rivers, so approval of this funding is certainly great news."

"I am delighted that our efforts have been successful in getting this item on the Bond Commission agenda, and I am certain that the Commission recognizes the importance of this project," said Representative Heagney. "The vital upgrades and improvements to the wastewater treatment facility will significantly expand its design life, enabling it to meet the economic development needs of the community."

According to the officials, much of the current mechanical equipment at the treatment facility is over
25 years old and in need of repair and replacement. In fact the facility is ten years beyond its original design life and cannot provide adequate treatment for existing flows. New equipment will not only meet the new regulations but also enhance the efficiency and control of plant operations. Simsbury's sewer service area encompasses 9060 acres and includes the towns of Avon, East Granby, Granby and Simsbury.

"We talk all the time about the state properly funding our communities. This is a big commitment, an important commitment by the State of Connecticut to the towns of Simsbury, Avon, Granby and East Granby in that it helps relieve the local property tax burden that a project like this could potentially have on these communities," said Sen. Herlihy.

"The improvements this grant will make possible will improve the quality of treated water discharged into area waterways and improve the capacity and efficiency of the treatment plant," Representative Farr said. "It will result in a cleaner and safer aquatic environment and better serve the recreational and public health needs of Avon and other area communities."

"The upgrades this grant will help finance are needed to accommodate current and future residential and commercial users in East Granby, Granby and other area towns. I'd like to thank the Bond Commission for supporting this grant. It demonstrates the state's continuing concern for the economic and environmental needs of our communities," Representative Ferrari said.