City will improve drinking water system
JEFFERSON CITY, MO, JAN. 12, 2022 - The Missouri Department of Natural Resources awarded $1.27 million in financial assistance to the city of Urbana for upgrades to the city’s drinking water distribution, storage and supply systems. The project is expected to cost $2 million and is anticipated to be completed by November 2022.
The project includes well house improvements, replacement of approximately 10,400 feet of existing water mains and rehabilitation of the city’s 50,000 gallon elevated water tower. With these improvements, the city will can offer its citizens safe drinking water for years to come with a modern and well-functioning drinking water system.
The funding for the project consists of a $954,794 grant and $319,000 loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, and a $750,000 Community Development Block Grant from the Missouri Department of Economic Development. The funding provided by the Department of Natural Resources is estimated to save the city’s ratepayers more than $950,000 in principal and approximately $60,000 in interest over the loan’s 20-year term.
“We are committed to helping communities all across Missouri remain strong and ensuring that crucial infrastructure like water treatment systems operate safely and effectively,” said Governor Mike Parson. “One way we do that is by offering financial assistance through programs like the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. With this help, communities can maintain and improve those public systems that support our daily lives.”
“Grants and low-interest loans through the State Revolving Fund help Missouri communities with water and wastewater treatment system improvements that they might not have been able to undertake otherwise,” said Dru Buntin, director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. “We are here to help qualifying communities plan and fund infrastructure improvements that will help protect public and environmental health and provide local economic benefits as well.”
The department’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund finances improvements to water treatment plants, distribution systems, water storage and supply facilities, along with interconnection and consolidation projects. Communities that borrow from the fund benefit from the below-market interest rate and from assistance provided throughout their project from a project manager.
The department is committed to assisting Missouri communities with water and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. Through its Financial Assistance Center, the department provides funding opportunities for communities with water quality, wastewater and drinking water infrastructure needs. This project will be funded wholly or in part with monies received from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
For more information on wastewater and drinking water funding opportunities, visit dnr.mo.gov/water/business-industry-other-entities/financial-opportunities/financial-assistance-center.