In recent years, neighbors on Sauquoit Creek have experienced severe flooding. The levels of water have damaged some longtime businesses and homes.

"I wanted to retire, I can't. I'm not going to close the door, working hard my 30-something years with nothing," said Boulevard Cleaners Owner Irena Tomaszewski.

A bill from Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon could help Mohawk Valley communities and it has passed in the Assembly.

"It's just so important, I think, to see how we can bring this all together," Buttenschon said. "I see the partnerships that [could] be created. The key communication and partnerships [are] the only way we're gonna get things done."

The bill would designate several "inland waterways," to make communities along those waterways eligible for Local Waterfront Revitalization Program funding.

That money could trickle down to businesses.

"If they're within the economic development plans, it's trying again to take a holistic approach to look at economic development, to look at infrastructure development, to determine that everything is working together," Buttenschon said.

As the legislation moves onto the Senate, work continues around Sauquoit Creek to keep areas safe from flooding.

"We have eyes on the creek all the time. Whatever we can do with things we're allowed to do with the creek, we go into the creek and see what we can do," said Whitesboro DPW Superintendent Chuck Tritten.

A total of 12 benches are being made along the creek to help give the water a place to go.

The bill also includes the Ferguson, Moyer, Mud, Ninemile, Oriskany, Reall, Six Mile, and Wood Creeks.