EPG Wastewater Infrastructure Project

Welcome to the EPG Project Information Page

Project Background

The Town is studying options for public sewer service in two areas: Route 20 South and Nelson Corners. Both areas have aging or failing septic systems that may pose environmental and health risks. Another driver for this study is smart growth and development in the Nelson Corners and along Route 20 South, as supported by the Town’s Comprehensive Plan. Several property owners in these areas have requested utilities, and the residential roads were included in the study to understand the cost impacts of adding more users to the system. A grant from New York State was secured that funded this study.

Summary of Findings

Two potential service areas have been identified. The Route 20 South/Nelson Heights/Midstate Service Area (see map below) includes 52 properties, with an estimated project cost of $2.75 million. To keep annual user costs at or below the 2025 Comptroller’s limit of $663 per typical residential property, approximately $2.5 million in grant funding would be needed, which represents over 90% grant funding. If 60% grant funding were approved, then the annual user costs per typical residential property would be $1,550. 

The Nelson Corners/Putnam Road/Thomas Road Service Area (see map below) includes 128 properties, with an estimated cost of $9.8 million and a need for about $9.3 million, or greater than 90% in grant funding to meet the same Comptroller’s limit. If 60% grant funding were approved, then the annual user costs per typical residential property would be $2,180. 

The projects will not proceed further unless sufficient public support is demonstrated and adequate grant funding is obtained.

Public Input and Resources

Your input is critical in determining where public sewer service is wanted or needed. After reviewing the posted materials, if you own property in either of the two potential service areas (see maps below), please answer the three questions below and submit your response by phone, email, or mail. We are seeking 100% participation to guide next steps.

Please Answer These Questions (Yes or No):

1. Do you want or need a public sewer system?
2. Would you pay up to $2,180 per year for a public sewer system?
3. If more than 90% grant funding is awarded, would you pay $670 per year for a public sewer system?

Instructions:

• Include the address of your property with your response.
• Responses can be called in at 315-655-8582, emailed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or mailed to Town Hall.
• If we do not hear from you, we plan to follow up in person.

Organization of the Presented Files

• Resident Letter and Informational Paper – Sent to property owners and businesses. The paper generally explains the difference between private septic systems and public sewer systems, but it is not specific to the Town of Nelson.
• Maps – Two maps for Route 20 South (with and without residential roads) and two maps for the Nelson Corners (with and without residential roads).
• Cost Estimates and Property List with Equivalent Dwelling Units (EDUs) – For both areas, showing scenarios with and without residential roads. The Total Unit Cost Per Year is based on a per EDU basis (e.g., one EDU for a typical home; businesses may represent multiple EDUs).