Today, the U. S. Department of Agriculture, Rural Development Agency celebrates Earth Day by announcing a $4.7 million grant and $1.7 million loan for sewer improvements in the City of Lincolnton. The improvements will abate water quality violations identified by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division while stabilizing critical infrastructure.
“The Lincolnton project corrects significant environmental concerns and at the same time serves as a factor in helping manufacturers and businesses determine where to locate or expand their operations” said Quinton N. Robinson, Rural Development State Director.
The two-phase project will first rehabilitate portions of the city’s sewer collection system in the Dry Fork Creek Basin. This includes cleaning, repairing or replacing approximately 9,100 linear feet of pipe, two pump station refurbishments and erosion control.
Phase II will make a number of modifications to expand treatment capacity of the Water Pollution Control Plant from 0.52-mgd to 1.04 mgd. This will address violations such as periodic sewer overflows of ammonia and phosphorus above discharge limits and expand the system to accommodate future growth.
Funding is through Rural Development’s Water and Environmental Program (WEP). WEP helps small, financially distressed rural communities improve water and waste treatment facilities that serve local households and businesses. Public bodies, non-profit organizations and recognized Indian tribes may qualify for USDA WEP assistance. WEP also makes grants to nonprofit organizations to provide technical assistance and training to assist rural communities with their water, wastewater, and solid waste problems. Call 706-546-2171 to get started.
Earth Day is observed annually on April 22 to raise awareness about what individuals can do to protect vital natural resources and safeguard the environment. Since the first Earth Day celebration in 1970, the event has greatly expanded. Today, citizens and governments in more than 195 countries participate in Earth Day events.
President Obama’s historic investments in rural America have made our rural communities stronger. Under his leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities.