What's happening: The U.S. Department of Agriculture will provide $8.6 million to help improve water and sewer infrastructure in the Upper Peninsula. The projects are in areas considered undergoing economic hardships and will help 3,571 residential customers and 353 businesses. Divided between two projects, some of the money will be paired with funding approved through the Michigan State Revolving Fund.
The projects: Marquette County has secured a $3.74 million Water and Environmental Program Loan to carry out essential upgrades to the water distribution system serving the area around the former KI Sawyer Air Force Base. The project aims to address key infrastructure needs, including the repair of three storage tanks currently experiencing moderate to severe structural issues. Additionally, about 6,000 linear feet of outdated asbestos cement pipes will be replaced, the generator's capacity will be enhanced, and more valves will be installed to minimize disruptions during maintenance and repairs. Upgrades and repairs to the well houses are also part of the planned improvements.
Ironwood received a $1.54 million loan and a $3.35 million grant to replace aging sanitary sewer mains, storm sewer mains, and manholes. These improvements focus on the longevity and effectiveness of Ironwood’s sewers, spending money now to spend less later.
What they're saying: “The scope of these projects is impressive,” said Brandon Fewin, U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development State Director for Michigan. “When you look at the changes to KI Sawyer and the scope of our work in Ironwood, it really demonstrates what USDA can help Upper Peninsula communities achieve.”
What's next: With funding in place, the respective governments will go through the proper permitting and hiring practices to begin the projects. There is no timeline available for estimated completion date for the projects.
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