NJ Globe: Opinion: We can’t go it alone on water infrastructure

By Mark Olson, Ridgefield Park Commissioner

“Statewide, and in Bergen County, water infrastructure problems extend beyond combined sewer systems.  Bergen communities like Franklin Lakes, Ho-Ho-Kus, Mahwah, Oakland, Park Ridge, Ridgewood, Upper Saddle River and Warwick have to contend with forever chemicals, or PFAs.  They are called forever chemicals because once ingested, they stay in our bodies forever.  Too many communities across New Jersey have deteriorating stormwater systems and lead service lines.  The bottom line is, communities are facing enormous and unprecedented expenses.

We can’t go it alone.  I am grateful to my Senator and Senate Budget and Appropriations Chair Paul Sarlo for the opportunity to have been able to testify.  I am also grateful for the steps he has taken along with my members of the Assembly and Governor Murphy to address water infrastructure issues.  But, more is needed. Statewide, we are facing an estimated $6 billion clean water funding gap over the next five years.  In his testimony, DEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette provided his assessment of New Jersey’s total need–$30 billion.”

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https://newjerseyglobe.com/governor/opinion-we-cant-go-it-alone-on-water-infrastructure/