County officials made the announcement Wednesday that the South and Center Chautauqua Lake Sewer District will be advancing into the third and final phase of construction. With this, the lake will be fully surrounded by sewer districts, offering public services to residents while better protecting the lake from degradation.

Currently, the only gap that exists in the sewer districts directly around the lake is a stretch from Point Chautauqua to Midway State Park. This third phase of the project will complete a sewer expansion into this territory, completing the full loop of publicly run sewer systems. Phase three was made possible due to the expansions that are currently wrapping up for phase two. This phase saw expansions along the west side of the lake, bringing the multiple decades of planning and advocating to a close.

“This is the moment we have been working toward,” said Thomas Walsh, South and Center Chautauqua Lake Sewer District director. “Phase 3 represents the final link in a system that will protect Chautauqua Lake for generations. With the support of New York state and our local partners, we are advancing critical infrastructure that reduces nutrient loading, replaces aging septic systems, and strengthens the environmental health of our community.”

This project was largely made possible due to the award of $17,795,000 from the New York State Water Infrastructure Improvement Grant. This grant, which was awarded through the Environmental Facilities Corporation on behalf of Gov. Kathy Hochul. The purpose of WIIA grants is to help municipalities secure funding for various wastewater and infrastructural projects. With Chautauqua Lake aiming to reduce pollutants and safeguard drinking waters, this grant money will certainly help to create a better and more sustainable future.

A photo of the anticipated location of the sewer district expansion planned in Phase Three.

“From day one, completing public sewer around Chautauqua Lake has been one of my top priorities,” said County Executive PJ Wendel. “For years, we’ve talked about installing that ‘golden pipe’ to connect the system ends — and now, we’re on the verge of making it a reality. This investment protects our environment, supports our tourism economy, and ensures that future generations can enjoy the beauty and integrity of Chautauqua Lake. I am grateful to Governor Hochul and our state partners for recognizing the importance of this project and providing the critical funding to move it forward.”

Throughout the project, the Environmental Facilities Corporation will work alongside county and sewer district officials to ensure that the proper procedures occur. Coordinators are just waiting on final design, permitting, and financing approvals and the final phase will officially be ready to commence. Karen Rine, sewer district board chair, said the project shows a true dedication to persistence, teamwork, and a shared commitment to safeguarding our lake. Rine gave immense thanks to the project’s director, staff, board members, and partners who have worked tirelessly to make this dream become a reality.

“Major public works projects like this require determination and sustained support at every level of government,” said County Legislative Chairman Pierre Chagnon. “Finalizing public sewer around Chautauqua Lake will fulfill the goal established by County Executive (Vince) Horrigan in 2013. This is a historic achievement that will improve water quality, strengthen property values, and support the long-term vitality of our lake communities.”