Jefferson City, Missouri – The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has granted a significant financial boost to Jefferson City, allocating $14.1 million to enhance the city’s wastewater treatment infrastructure. This funding is part of an effort to modernize critical utilities and ensure the community’s growth and health.
Financial and Environmental Impact
This funding will cover the project’s total cost, aimed at updating and replacing the outdated components of the wastewater system. The financial package provided to Jefferson City includes a low-interest loan of $14.1 million, anticipated to save the city approximately $4.6 million in interest payments over a span of 20 years.
Governor Mike Parson highlighted the importance of such initiatives, stating, “Every community must have up-to-date infrastructure if they are to keep growing and thriving.” He further emphasized the significance of renovating water systems that are crucial for daily life in Missouri communities.
Dru Buntin, director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, added, “Grants and low-interest loans through the State Revolving Fund help Missouri communities fund treatment system improvements they might not have been able to undertake otherwise.” He pointed out that these projects are essential for protecting public health and the environment, thereby enhancing the quality of life for residents across the state.
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Benefits of the State Revolving Fund
The Clean Water State Revolving Fund, which is supporting this project, provides financing for various environmental and infrastructure projects. These include upgrades to wastewater treatment facilities, rehabilitation of sewer collection systems, corrections to combined sewer overflows, and improvements related to security, efficiency, and conservation.
Communities benefiting from this fund enjoy below-market interest rates and receive dedicated support from a department project manager, ensuring the smooth execution of their projects. This particular project in Jefferson City is set to be completed by September 2025 and is funded wholly or in part by funds from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
For residents and officials looking for more information on water-related funding opportunities, resources are available on the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ website at the Financial Assistance Center section.
