(Boston 7/25/2022) During the Senate’s debate on its Economic Development Bill yesterday, several amendments from Senator John Velis providing funding for the City of Agawam were successfully adopted, including $1,500,000 for repairs and replacement of the Main Street Sewer Pipe system in Agawam.
“The sewer break on Main Street and the subsequent sewage spill into the Westfield River is an immediate problem that must be addressed. As soon as the Economic Development Bill was filed, I knew I needed to move quickly and fight for this funding to help replace these pipes,” said Senator Velis.
“Relationships matter and the town of Agawam is so pleased to have a partner in Senator Velis. Like other cities and towns, Agawam struggles to cover the costs of needed capital improvements. This project will upgrade a crucial service along a major artery in Town. These state funds will spare the Agawam taxpayers from having to cover the costs of the project alone. Once again, Senator Velis delivered on behalf of the Town and Agawam taxpayers,” said Agawam Mayor Bill Sapelli.
The amendment filed by Senator Velis would allocate $1,500,000 to Agawam for the project. The funding comes from remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds that the state has, as well as surplus state revenue.
“When a problem like this arises, it’s my job as Senator to go down to Boston and do whatever I can to help fix it,” said Senator Velis. “I am grateful to the Mayor for his partnership and am proud that my team was able to get this important funding for Agawam included in the Senate’s bill.”
With the House of Representatives having previously passed its own Economic Development bill, the two versions will be reconciled in conference committee, before a final bill can go to the Governor’s desk for his consideration.
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