Your Morning Edition for Friday, April 18th presented by DiSanto Propane!
Getting your day started with the biggest stories across the FLX. Naples gets major infrastructure funding, Walworth gets update on sewer, and Auburn museum loses funding. Plus much more!
Naples and Erwin Awarded Millions for Water Infrastructure Projects
The Village of Naples and Town of Erwin will receive a combined $33 million to upgrade their water infrastructure, as part of a $175 million statewide investment announced by Governor Kathy Hochul. Naples will get $22.2 million for new sanitary sewers and an expanded wastewater treatment plant. Erwin will use its $10.8 million to modernize its treatment facility and extend sewer lines along Route 417. Officials say the projects will protect public health, boost local economies, and support long-term environmental goals.
Finger Lakes Forecast: Weekend Weather
Mild and breezy conditions arrive today with increasing clouds and highs near 70. Rain and thunderstorms are likely Saturday, with strong winds and highs in the low 70s before a sharp cooldown Saturday night. Sunday brings clearing skies but cooler air, with highs around 52. The early week forecast features on-and-off rain chances and seasonable temperatures, peaking again near 69 by Thursday.
Fast 5: What’s happening in the Finger Lakes?
The Walworth Town Board approved several budgetary items this week and heard updates on major community and infrastructure projects. MRB Group presented a proposal to replace the Walworth-Palmyra Road sewer line, while planning board discussions continued on a proposed 5-megawatt solar farm by Nover Solar Farm LLC. Public feedback focused on environmental and visual concerns, with a SEQRA decision postponed pending further documentation. The board also heard a preliminary pitch for a multi-use community cooperative, receiving early support to explore its viability.
The Cayuga County Legislature’s Ways and Means Committee reviewed department budgets, approved property tax settlements, and received updates on county finances during its April 15 meeting. Departments reported staffing shortages and frontloaded expenses, with DSS, Health, and Mental Health highlighting budget pressures tied to mandated programs and service demands. Finance Director Grace Blowers said sales tax revenue remains strong and audits are progressing, while HR and Real Property officials reported ongoing hiring and assessment activities. The committee also approved three tax certiorari settlements and previewed upcoming discussions on short-term rental regulations and capital project oversight.
Yates County drivers should prepare for significant summer road work, with closures and detours planned across several key routes. Ferguson-Corners Road and Guyanoga Road will be milled starting in late April, followed by repaving in June. Italy Valley Road will close for up to four weeks for culvert work, while a four-month bridge rehab will shut down Pre-emption Road near Bellona. Additional chip sealing is planned for roads like Himrod, Hobson, Flynn, and City Hill, with schedules still to be finalized.
Seneca County’s new Water-Sewer Authority has officially begun work, aiming to streamline and modernize regional infrastructure. Formed through state legislation, the Authority brings together towns and villages under a unified strategy for water and sewer services. At its first meeting, the board appointed Robert Carroll as chairman and Daniel Schmalzel as interim executive director, and began reviewing system assessments. Early priorities include developing operational guidelines and enhancing intermunicipal coordination, with the next meeting scheduled for April 24 in Waterloo.
The Cayuga Museum of History and Art in Auburn has lost a $50,000 federal grant following an executive order from President Trump that targeted the agency providing the funds. The grant, awarded by the Institute for Museum and Library Services in 2023, supported a curator focused on local history exhibits. The agency informed the museum that the funding no longer aligned with shifting federal priorities, and staff were placed on leave amid broader cuts. Despite the setback, museum officials say they remain committed to their educational mission and inclusive storytelling.
High School Sports Rundown: Thursday Scoreboard
Penn Yan and Victor boys lacrosse teams earned key victories, with Penn Yan staying unbeaten and Victor winning in overtime. In baseball, Canandaigua split a doubleheader while Victor cruised to a tournament win. Softball action saw Mynderse fall to Union Springs despite a strong showing from Mercedes Santana. Additional results included Brighton dominating Wayne in lacrosse and Honeoye picking up its first baseball win.
AGAINST THE BOARDS: Amerks, Knighthawks Set Sights on Postseason
READER RUNDOWN: What else is happening in the Finger Lakes?
Ontario County Launches Seminars on Program to Revive Vacant Rentals
Ontario County Launches EAGLE Fund to Boost Small Business Growth
Mets end two-game skid with series-opening win over Cardinals (highlights)
Auburn Transfer Station Cleaning Days Offer Free Disposal for City Residents
Lindy Ruff earns 900th NHL win as Sabres edge Flyers in season finale (highlights)
Attorney General James Secures 31 Convictions in Massive Fentanyl and Narcotics Trafficking Case