Seth Moulton

A regionwide crisis is spurring calls from the Massachusetts congressional delegation for federal investment.

Ripples are still being felt from a massive sewage spill in the Merrimack River, shuttering beaches and halting shellfish operations. Some Democratic leaders in the state are urging the Trump administration to act.

"This was a true regional disaster," said Rep. Seth Moulton.

"They can't shoulder these costs alone," said Rep. Lori Trahan.

She added that she's seeking "long-term funding to replace aging water infrastructure, rapid response dollars for emergencies like this one and restored grant funding."

Trahan and Moulton wrote a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin.

"Lori and I did work with him in the House, so we're hoping to at least be able to have a conversation and plead our case," Moulton said.

The letter spotlights programs like the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant Program, Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Biden-era infrastructure bill.

"This hyper-politicized administration is threatening to not provide it to blue cities and states," said Moulton.

"The need is growing at the exact moment that the money is drying up," added Trahan.

"EPA received the letter and will respond through the appropriate channels. Regarding the Haverhill incident, EPA worked closely with Mass DEP and the City of Haverhill to stop the direct discharge of wastewater into the Merrimack River, and the agency continues to be involved as long term repairs are being made," an agency spokesperson told NBC10 Boston in a statement. "Clean water for every American is a top priority for the Trump Administration. Reliable water infrastructure is essential to protecting human health, supporting local economies, and safeguarding our nation’s waterways. EPA continues to work closely with our federal, state, and local partners to support investments in critical water infrastructure and to ensure that appropriate levels of federal funding are available to help communities address their most pressing water infrastructure needs."

Meanwhile, multiple moves were made by the Massachusetts congressional delegation on Tuesday centered on the Haverhill sewage spill.

Sens. Ed Markey and Elizabeth Warren, along with Trahan, filed a bill that would amend federal policy to allow towns like Haverhill to apply for emergency grants during similar spills.

Moulton also secured an amendment to boost Haverhill water infrastructure investment from $40 million to $50 million.

"Which, again, is not only important for Haverhill, it's important for every city and town downriver of Haverhill," he said.

NBC10 Boston reached out to Haverhill Mayor Melinda Barrett via email and in person at her office, but did not hear back in time for this report.