WHO: Chautauqua County Officials, South and Center Chautauqua Lake Sewer District Leadership, Representatives from J.D. Northrup Construction Inc. & Local Community Leaders;
WHAT: A groundbreaking ceremony for the South and Center Chautauqua Lake Sewer District expansion project. This $16.9 million initiative will extend public sewer access from Stow to Prendergast Creek, protecting Chautauqua Lake and water wells by replacing outdated septic systems with pump systems and connecting 400 additional homes to the sewer network;
WHEN: Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.;
WHERE: Hogan’s Hut General Store (3503 Old Bridge Rd in Stow, NY)
STOW, NY – Chautauqua County and the South and Center Chautauqua Lake Sewer District will host a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. marking the beginning of the sewer district expansion project.
The project is a crucial step in protecting the environmental health of Chautauqua Lake, which has been a priority for local leaders. Officials will provide remarks, followed by a ceremonial groundbreaking. The event will also be livestreamed on the Chautauqua County YouTube page for those unable to attend in person.
This expansion will complete the connection of all properties on the west side of Chautauqua Lake to the public sewer system. Work is expected to begin this fall and continue through the spring of 2027. The project will enhance local infrastructure, improve water quality, and protect the lake’s ecology for generations to come.
The expansion of the South and Center Chautauqua Lake Sewer District has been in the works for decades, with recent progress leading to this momentous development. The $16.9 million contract awarded to J.D. Northrup Construction Inc. will fund the installation of advanced pump systems, replacing outdated septic tanks, and the construction of a new wastewater conveyance system to the treatment facility in Celoron. Local officials and community leaders will be present to highlight the importance of this project and its long-term benefits to the community and environment.
Thomas Walsh, Director of the South and Center Chautauqua Lake Sewer District, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming work: “We were very pleased with the competitive bids we received and are excited to see this important project move forward. Protecting Chautauqua Lake watershed has always been a top priority, and this expansion will significantly contribute to that effort.”
Karen Rine, South and Center Chautauqua Lake Sewer District Board Chair, highlighted the long-term benefits of the expansion: “This project represents decades of planning and dedication to improving the infrastructure around Chautauqua Lake. By connecting these additional homes to the public sewer system, we are making a vital investment in the future health of our community and our natural resources. The success of phase 1 is attributed to our vibrant director and staff at the sewer district who work tireless every day to make our operations a success.”
Chautauqua County Legislature Chairman Pierre Chagnon, added: “This expansion is a major step forward in fulfilling County Executive Horrigan’s 2013 vision of completing public sewers around the entirety of Chautauqua Lake. Completion of major public works infrastructure projects like this takes determination and persistence. I am proud of the dedication shown by all those involved over the years, and this project will have a lasting positive impact on the health of our lake and the well-being of our community.”
Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel emphasized the project’s importance to the region: “The expansion of the sewer district is a critical step in safeguarding the environmental and public health of our county. I commend everyone involved for their continued commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents and preserving the beauty and integrity of Chautauqua Lake.”
Congressman Nick Langworthy said in support of the project: "The progress of this project marks an important step toward safeguarding the long-term health of Chautauqua Lake and the surrounding communities. This sewer expansion will protect water quality, support local businesses, and ensure the lake remains a place where families can live, work, and play for generations to come. I’ll continue to focus on the restoration and maintenance of Chautauqua Lake and delivering real results that improve the quality of life for our community.”
