City will plan and design wastewater system improvements
JEFFERSON CITY, MO, JULY 25, 2025 – The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a $410,000 loan to the city of Urbana for planning and design work related to the city’s ongoing wastewater improvement project.
Provided through the department’s Planning and Design Loan Program, the loan will supply vital interim financing to cover early engineering and administrative costs while the city works with the department to secure a larger funding package for its wastewater project. The larger construction project is expected to total $2.7 million, with construction starting in 2026.
The early planning phase of a large water or wastewater project often represents a significant financial burden for cash-limited communities. The department’s goal is to provide a cost-effective alternative to expensive private financing that allows Missouri communities to develop and deliver vital infrastructure projects for their citizens. These loans bear no interest and come with a five-year term. With the department’s assistance, the city’s ratepayers will save approximately $86,000 in interest over the loan’s five-year term.
“Reliable water and wastewater infrastructure is essential for the sustainability of communities and industries, and for the quality of life for all Missourians,” said Kurt Schaefer, director of the Department of Natural Resources.
The department’s 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 security, efficiency and conservation measures. Communities that borrow from the fund benefit from the below-market interest rates and from assistance a department project manager provides throughout the project.
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.