Construction begins on flood-resiliency project in Clayton in Jefferson County

CLAYTON, N.Y. — Construction has started on a series of flood-resiliency projects in the village of Clayton in Jefferson County.

The four projects were awarded nearly $6.3 million in grant funding through New York State’s Lake Ontario Resiliency and Economic Development Initiative (REDI), Gov. Kathy Hochul announced on Thursday.

Once complete, these REDI-funded projects will help mitigate the impact of future high-water events and improve resiliency of the shoreline, the state says.

“Today’s investments in these transformative projects along Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River are critical in helping ensure the welfare of our shoreline communities,” Hochul said. “Through the REDI Program, we are working closely with local governments to address the threat of future flooding and mitigate the effects of climate change. Once complete, these improvements will stimulate economic development, promote tourism, and keep this popular destination safe and accessible during high water — ensuring that the Village of Clayton remains a thriving community for residents and visitors alike.”

The REDI Commission awarded the village more than $8.6 million for a total of five projects. The fifth awarded resiliency project — the Village of Clayton Wastewater Collection and Treatment Plant improvements — began construction in 2021 and work is progressing.

The announcement also includes $2.5 million for work at the Riverwalk, nearly $2.5 million for the Crib Dock at Mary Street boat launch, $975,000 for the village docks by veterans monument, and $250,000 for work at the Frink Park regional dock.

The St. Lawrence River in 2019 had record high water levels that resulted in “devastating” floods throughout communities along the river’s shoreline, the state says. The flood waters resulted in degradation of public infrastructure. They also restricted public use of popular tourist destinations like the Riverwalk, negatively impacting public safety and local economies.

These projects will address at-risk infrastructure and “boost economic development” in Jefferson County, Hochul’s office said.