Massena Village Returns $2.4 Million Water Grant After Air Products Project Cancellation
The village of Massena is returning a $2.4 million grant intended for a water line project following the cancellation of Air Products' $500 million green hydrogen facility. Village officials had hoped to secure additional funding but were unsuccessful.
Mayor Greg Paquin reported that Empire State Development inquired about the grant's status, leading to the decision to return the funds. Concerns were raised about the potential negative impact of holding onto the grant without progress on the project.
The existing 24-inch concrete water line, installed in the 1960s, poses risks if it fails. Village officials plan to explore future funding options for a redundant water line while pursuing additional grants for ongoing water service upgrades, including significant bonding resolutions for infrastructure improvements.
