ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer says New York
municipalities will be able to tap $322 million in loans and grants to upgrade aging water and sewer systems.

Schumer says 30 percent of the funding - $3.5 billion in total aid nationwide - will be in grants that won't have to be repaid. He says he sought that provision to avoid local tax increases to pay for the work.

The Democrat says Wednesday the federal funds will trigger action and create jobs to address a backlog of water and sewer projects statewide. He said improved water and sewer service is also a priority of employers seeking sites to grow.

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