Garden State Times

The Senate Environment and Energy Committee has approved legislation sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Anthony Bucco that will allocate funds for the restoration and repair of seventeen dams and inland waters projects. In a statement, Bucco expressed his satisfaction with the decision, saying, “I’m glad that over $28M will be invested to fund projects in these municipalities. These critical dam repairs will preserve and protect our local environment, which is critical to our quality of life.” He emphasized the importance of the funding in ensuring the flow of clean drinking water to communities, supporting recreational activities, and providing habitats for fish and wildlife.

The bill put forward by Bucco, S-3258, earmarks $28,670,924 from 2003 and 1992 bond act monies for loans for dam restoration and repair projects as well as inland waters projects. Specifically, $5.2M will be allocated to projects in Morris and Passaic counties, including those in West Milford and Jefferson Township. The breakdown of the investment includes:

- High Crest Lake Dam: $1,250,000

- Mount Glen Dam: $3,000,000

- Upper & Lower Farm Crest Dams: $350,000

- High Crest Lake: $500,000

- Swannanoa Lake Dam: $100,000

Overall, the funds from the 2003 bond act will support loans for thirteen projects, including High Crest Lake Dam, Mount Glen Dam, and Lake Winona Dam, among others. Meanwhile, the funds from the 1992 bond act will be allocated to four projects, namely Mountain Creek Lake Dam, Silver Lake Dam, Lake Garrison Dam, and Swannanoa Lake Dam.