Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has secured over $17 million in federal funding for a range of projects across Upstate New York and the North Country, her office announced. The funds will support improvements in biotechnology research, water infrastructure, wastewater treatment, and border security.
“I’m proud to have secured more than $17 million in federal funding for critical projects that will strengthen North Country innovation, protect public health, and keep our communities safe. From supporting cutting-edge biotechnology research at the Trudeau Institute, to upgrading aging wastewater systems in Upstate towns that have waited decades for relief, these investments will deliver real results to New York’s 21st District. This funding will also improve access to clean, reliable drinking water and enhance Northern Border security and maritime safety on Lake Champlain. Throughout my time in Congress, I have delivered significant results and nearly $1 billion in federal funds, and that work will continue this year,” said Stefanik.
The Trudeau Institute is set to receive $4.2 million to advance its biosciences research capabilities. Garry Douglas, President of the North Country Chamber of Commerce, stated: “Trudeau is a uniquely important asset for the North Country and for the nation. Securing fresh federal support for its research endeavors has been one of our priorities in Congress, working actively with Congresswoman Stefanik and with Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, including meetings in Washington in the fall. The Congresswoman’s appropriation of $4.2 million for bio research together with $2.5 million from the Senators for modernization of specialized equipment will help to sustain and grow Trudeau’s vital work for years to come. This is a very welcome advance at the very start of the new year. Onward and upward!”
Other funded projects include upgrades to local water systems:
– The Village of Evans Mills receives $2 million to replace its wastewater treatment facility. Mayor Robert Boucher said: “On behalf of the Village of Evans Mills, we extend our sincere gratitude to Congresswoman Elise Stefanik for her leadership and support in securing Community Project Funding for our wastewater infrastructure and UV disinfection facility. This vital investment will enable us to modernize our treatment system, enhance water quality, and uphold our commitment to environmental stewardship by protecting local waterways and downstream communities… For a small municipality, federal support of this nature is critical to advancing major infrastructure improvements while minimizing the impact on local taxpayers.”
– The Village of Broadalbin receives $2 million towards replacing a 95-year-old water tank and lines. Mayor Steve Murray noted: “We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Stefanik for securing $2 million towards the replacement of our aging water tower… With this funding, we can finally move forward with a permanent solution… This investment will ensure access to safe, dependable water for residents and businesses for generations to come.”
– The Village of Port Leyden also gets $2 million for deteriorated water mains replacement. Mayor Heather Collins said: “On behalf of the residents of the Village of Port Leyden, I extend sincere appreciation… The funds allocated will enable the completion of our comprehensive water infrastructure improvement project… We are especially grateful to Congresswoman Elise Stefanik and Senator Charles Schumer…”
– The Village of Hudson Falls receives $2 million toward replacing old water mains.
– The Town of Lake Luzerne secures nearly $1.8 million for rehabilitation work on its municipal water system. Supervisor Jim Niles commented: “It is exciting to hear that Congresswoman Stefanik’s EPA Stag Drinking Water State Revolving Fund grant… This grant… will allow our small upstate Adirondack tourist town to replace parts of our municipal system that in some cases are over 100 years old… Clean reliable water is a fundamental component…”
– In Herkimer Town, about $1.6 million goes toward new sewer infrastructure intended both as an economic development initiative as well as public health improvement measures. Supervisor Dominic Frank said: “The Town of Herkimer’s East Herkimer Sewer Project is an economic development project based on installing municipal wastewater infrastructure… As such it is consistent with Congresswoman Stefanik’s steadfast support for economic growth in our area…”
– Richmondville receives $1 million toward improving its failing wastewater treatment system; Supervisor Jeff Haslun noted previous grants had already been awarded but highlighted how additional support would reduce debt burdens on residents.
Additionally, Clinton County Sheriff’s Office receives half a million dollars towards acquiring a maritime patrol vessel aimed at enhancing law enforcement operations on Lake Champlain—a key international body shared with Canada—according to Sheriff David Favro: “Lake Champlain is a major international body of water shared with Canada… With this funding the Clinton County Sheriff’s office will be able to more effectively enforce laws and provide rescue services…”
Elise Stefanik has represented New York’s 21st District since 2015 after succeeding Bill Owens (https://stefanik.house.gov/2026/1/stefanik-delivers-17-million-in-funding-for-north-country-projects). She was born in Albany in 1984 and lives in Schuylerville; she graduated from Harvard University.
