City of Oswego of Oswego Receives $5 million Grant for Ellen Street Water Tank Project

OSWEGO – Mayor Rob Corradino announced today that the City of Oswego has been awarded a $5 million dollar New York State Water Infrastructure Improvement Grant (WIIA) to advance the Ellen Street and Gardiner Hill High Service Zone Interconnection Improvement Project.

This major infrastructure initiative includes the demolition of the deteriorated Ellen Street water tower, rehabilitation of the Gardiner Hill tower, and construction of a new interconnection between the two high service zones. The project also features upgraded water distribution lines and enhancements to the existing booster station.

These improvements are essential to ensuring the reliable delivery of safe drinking water, reducing the risk of system failures, minimizing leakage, and improving overall operational efficiency. The grant will allow the City to move forward with its Water Storage Optimization and Distribution Upgrade Project, addressing longstanding infrastructure challenges while strengthening water quality, public health, and environmental outcomes for Oswego residents.

Mayor Corradino emphasized the significance of the investment, stating:

“This funding not only advances the City’s infrastructure modernization goals but also aligns with broader state priorities for climate resilience, environmental protection, and support for disadvantaged communities. The Ellen Street tower has required frequent repairs due to structural leaks, and the time has come to address these issues comprehensively. Thanks to this grant, we can complete this critical work without placing the financial burden on local taxpayers.”

Mayor Corradino added that infrastructure improvements have been a top priority since he took office two years ago, and he remains committed to aggressively pursuing grants to meet the community’s most pressing needs.

“I would like to thank Governor Hochul and the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation for this early Christmas present,” Corradino said. I want to express gratitude to my team at city hall, water department, DPW and grant writers who all contributed for the submission of an excellent application. Most importantly, I want to thank the residents who have been patient and understanding during the past several years as repairs to the Ellen Street tank were repeatedly required. This project will finally deliver the long-term solution our community deserves.”