OWEGO, N.Y. (WENY) - A project to improve drainage and reduce flood risk in the Apalachin Creek watershed in Owego has been completed.

The project included replacing the Gaylord Road culvert with a new, larger-capacity crossing and restoring the streambank.

Executive Director of GOSR Katie Brennan said, "This project helps ensure that Owego's families are better protected and the community's infrastructure is more resilient during future weather emergencies. We are proud that under Governor Hochul's leadership, our neighborhood-driven, grassroots process is safeguarding residents from flooding and preserving our waterways."

Flooding from Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee damaged thousands of homes and caused millions of dollars of damage across communities in the Southern Tier.

As part of the $860,000 project, the previously-undersized Gaylord Road culvert was replaced by a larger-capacity concrete structure that can resist erosion and reduce the accumulation of debris.

Combined with restoration work along the streambank around the culvert, the new crossing will help improve the flow of water, mitigate flooding, protect homes and businesses around Gaylord Road, and improve street infrastructure.