Garden State Times

Seventeen dams and inland waters projects across New Jersey are set to receive increased funding for repairs and restoration, following the approval of legislation sponsored by Senate Minority Leader Anthony Bucco. The New Jersey Senate approved the bill today.

"I’m glad that over $28M will be invested to fund projects in a number of municipalities in my District and around the State. These critical dam repairs will preserve and protect our local environment, which is critical to our quality of life,” said Bucco (R-25). “This funding will also protect the flow of clean drinking water to communities throughout the State, support recreational activities, and provide habitats for fish and wildlife.”

The legislation, known as S-2594, appropriates $28,670,924 in 2003 and 1992 bond act monies for loans aimed at dam restoration and repair projects as well as inland waters projects.

According to the bill's provisions, $5.2 million will be allocated to fund projects in Morris and Passaic counties. This includes projects in West Milford and Jefferson Township such as 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), and Lake Winona Dam ($4,700,000).

In total, thirteen projects will benefit from funds from the 2003 bond act. These include High Crest Lake Dam; Mount Glen Dam; Lake Winona Dam; Cooper River Pkwy. Dam; Giffords Mill Dam; Upper & Lower Farm Crest; Lake Plymouth Dam; Braddock Mill Lake Dam; Fawn Lake Dam; Camp Karney Dam; Pine Mill Lake Dam; Holiday Pond Dam; and High Crest Lake.

Meanwhile, four loans from the 1992 bond act funds will be directed towards Mountain Creek Lake Dam; Silver Lake Dam; Lake Garrison Dam; and Swannanoa Lake Dam.