State Senate Gives Cape $350K to Help Solve Wastewater Issue

The Senate on Friday passed a $32.45 billion balanced budget for the 2013 fiscal year inncluding a $350,000 provisions for the development of a wastewater smart map and cost model for the Cape Cod region to identify environmentally appropriate and affordable wastewater infrastructure solutions, according to a press release.

“This funding will allow the Cape to take the next step in finding a solution to the region’s wastewater problem,” Murray said. “This is a very pressing environmental issue and it will threaten the vibrant tourist economy in the region unless action is taken. The towns have been trying to find a cost-effective solution for years and it’s important that we take the measures necessary to move closer to a solution.”

“Getting the best information into the public domain is crucial to fashioning smart, affordable solutions to our wastewater crisis,” said Cape and Islands Senator Dan Wolf (D-Harwich). “This is proof positive that we can plan regionally and then move to act locally, avoiding unnecessary expenses and solving our problems community by community, watershed by watershed.” 

The comprehensive model will identify the appropriate economy of scale for wastewater infrastructure solutions and provide estimates of the costs associated with implementing various solutions. The model will be accessible to the public through a web mapping application and must be completed by June 30, 2013. 

Due to rapid population growth, every bay on Cape Cod is affected by nitrogen from septic systems and other sources leading to algae blooms and less benthic sea life, diminishing the overall quality of the bays. Excess nitrogen also compromises public drinking water, and most southeastern Massachusetts estuaries do not meet the Massachusetts Water Quality Standards. 

The budget will now move to a conference committee with the House of Representatives to produce a final budget that will go to Governor Deval Patrick for his consideration. The new fiscal year begins July 1. 

Information from a press release.