District will use funding for Middle Big Creek Phase 2 collection system extension and improvements
JEFFERSON CITY, MO, DEC. 26, 2024 - The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded $18.7 million in financial assistance to the Little Blue Valley Sewer District for the Middle Big Creek Phase 2 collection system extension project. The funding will cover the project’s estimated total cost and the project is expected to be completed by June 2026.
The project is expected to result in reduced sanitary sewer overflows by increasing the treatment system’s capacity to handle peak flow events. It will extend the wastewater system’s life and efficiency so that it can continue to serve the district well into the future.
Project funding consists of a $17.9 million low interest loan and a $750,000 grant, both through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. The funding provided by the department is estimated to save the district’s ratepayers $750,000 in principal and approximately $8.3 million in interest over the loan’s 20-year term.
“Significant endeavors usually require substantial investment, and this project perfectly reflects that reality,” said Missouri Governor Mike Parson. “We are absolutely committed to making sure that Missourians in every community have access to quality infrastructure they rely on every day for life, health and economic opportunity.”
“Water and wastewater systems are essential infrastructure, but maintaining and improving these systems can become a real challenge, especially for small communities,” said Dru Buntin, director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. “This grant helps facilitate partnerships that can more effectively develop regional projects that not only will reduce pollution entering Missouri’s environment but help improve the quality of life for Missourians.”
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund finances improvements to wastewater treatment facilities, sewer collection system rehabilitation and extensions, and combined sewer overflow corrections. The fund also finances upgrades in treatment system security, efficiency and conservation. Communities that borrow from the fund benefit from the below-market interest rate and from assistance provided throughout their project by a department 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 qualified 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/what-were-doing/state-revolving-fund-srf.