Program will empower more than two dozen municipalities and strengthen wastewater assets across New York State
Clifton Park, NY – March 20, 2023 – Arcadis, a leading global design and consultancy organization for natural and built assets, has been selected by the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (NYSEFC) to serve as Program Advisor on a one-of-a-kind asset management initiative that will improve resiliency of wastewater infrastructure across the state. Arcadis’ selection was announced by New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s office in October 2022.
The first phase of the program helped improve wastewater asset programs in 10 municipalities across New York and update the state’s Asset Management Guide for Publicly Owned Treatment Works (POTWs). During the second phase of the program, Arcadis, as Program Advisor, will work closely with the state to build upon its pilot effort.
In this role, Arcadis will serve as the state’s asset management expert, providing instruction and oversight to 10 engineering firms selected by NYSEFC to standardize and expand asset management capabilities statewide to help local governments develop their own asset management programs. Among the services provided, the program will deliver digital tools and training with no out-of-pocket costs to 27 municipalities chosen by the New York State Department of Conservation (NYSDEC). Funding for the pilot comes from the Clean Water Infrastructure Act.
Using a cloud-based program management platform and advanced analytics to inform customized investment decisions, this second phase of the state program will enable local governments to strengthen wastewater assets before storm events or other problems appear. Subconsultants will assist municipalities with software implementation support and public outreach.
Suman Bopaiah, Asset Management Lead, said: “We’re honored to have been chosen to help the selected municipalities develop programs that reinforce their wastewater treatment systems. We look forward to understanding their needs and goals so that stakeholders feel empowered throughout the process.”
Matt Yonkin, Deputy Program Manager, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to support communities across New York state. We’re eager to collaborate with firms and local governments on proactive, cost-effective solutions that improve the resiliency of critical water infrastructure.”
Arcadis will serve as Program Advisor on the program through September 2026.
