NEWARK, NJ - U.S. Senators Robert Menendez and Cory Booker (both D-NJ) today applauded the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) $260,708,743 federal Sandy recovery funding award for the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission (PVSC). The funding is provided through FEMA's Public Assistance grant program, and will be used to harden the Newark wastewater facility against future floods and employ a microgrid to ensure the plant remains in operation during power outages.

"Today's announcement of federal Sandy relief for the Passaic Valley Sewerage Commission is the largest mitigation project FEMA has ever funded out of the Public Assistance program. I was proud to lead the fight to pass the $60 billion Sandy Recovery bill that provided this critically needed funding and thank the Obama Administration for agreeing to my request to increase the federal share from 75% to 90%," said Senator Menendez. "While we continue to make strong strides towards recovery, there is still much work to be done. That is why I vow to keep fighting to ensure homeowners and local communities receive the resources they need to rebuild stronger and be more resilient and prepared for future storms."

"The damage caused by Superstorm Sandy to our public facilities came at a high price, impacting our environment and affecting the services that New Jerseyans rely on daily," said Sen. Booker. "This latest grant will make it possible for our state to protect this vital sewerage treatment facility and keep it running in case of another emergency. I commend FEMA for recognizing the importance of funding this kind of project and look forward to continuing to work for funding that enables all of our state's public services to recover fully from Sandy."

FEMA provides funding for these projects directly to the State. It is the State's responsibility to ensure that the eligible sub-grantees receive these awards. Following the State's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they will provide funds to the sub-grantees on a reimbursable basis.

The President signed the Superstorm Sandy Supplemental Appropriations bill into law last year, bringing the total Sandy aid enacted by Congress to $60.2 billion. The funding package included federal aid to help homeowners, businesses, and communities recover, and resources to rebuild coastal, transportation, and water infrastructure.

###