The Riverhead Town Board recently approved an increased project budget for a new wastewater treatment facility. This increase, largely due to COVID-related supply chain issues and design changes, will cost the town $18.65 million and is to be paid off over 30 years. The project will convert the current sludge handling process to create Class A biosolids, which are more environmentally friendly and will save the town an estimated $25 million in operational costs over the next three decades. The project will be financed through property assessments within the service area, with the town securing a $17 million no-interest loan from the N.Y. State Environmental Services Corporation.