Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell announced that the Danbury-Brewster sewer project has been awarded $1.2 million in New York State funding. The project, which extends the Danbury sewer line over the state border and through the Route 6 corridor of Brewster, was granted Empire State Development money.  The sewer line will connect 3.5 miles of commercially zoned land to the City of Danbury’s sewer system, which has excess capacity.

The idea was discussed last November when Danbury and Putnam County officials met about regionalizing resources and services.  Mayor Mark Boughton noted that the sewer project was a more complicated process than sharing parks or other infrastructure.  The City wanted to get start on plans, given the rehab work planned for the facility.  Boughton says adding more users to the waste water treatment plant could spread out the estimated $90 million cost of upgrades and phosphorous removal improvements.

There is no prohibition from Connecticut on the City extending the line into New York.

Danbury also recently beefed up the westside sewer intercept, a project from the 70s, which Boughton says makes this new project proposal easier. 

Odell says the sewer project has a potential long-term impact on Putnam County’s economic vitality because a proper infrastructure will ensure a growing business community.  She says the Danbury-Brewster sewer line will also strengthen the Brewster revitalization effort by maximizing the potential of the under-utilized area.  The project will also bring construction jobs to Putnam County.

Putnam County Legislature chairwoman Ginny Nacerino says the project will enhance quality of life by providing convenience and ultimately will help to offset taxes.

Danbury Finance Director David St. Hilaire says although the number of uses have gone up, there's been a decline in the amount of gallons because of efficiencies and conservation measures.  That means rates have increased.