USDA Rural Development State Director Colleen Landkamer today announced funding to make essential improvements to the water and wastewater infrastructure in the city of Biwabik.
“Modernizing water and wastewater systems improves the quality of life and can help attract jobs to rural communities," Landkamer said. "Water and wastewater upgrades protect the health and safety of those who live and work in rural areas, and are especially critical given today's aging infrastructure.”
Originating back to the early 1900’s, the majority of Biwabik's water and wastewater infrastructure has withstood what time it could and is now in need of several improvements. While expansions have taken place in the 1950's, 1990's, and 2000's, the existing gravity sanitary sewer collection system has started to deteriorate allowing infiltration and inflow. The majority of the on-site systems are in need of many repairs, creating potential health and environmental safety hazards.
Replacement of the current sanitary wastewater mains and manholes will help provide water tightness to prevent infiltration of clean water from entering the system and mitigate any potential health and safety issues for the nearly 1,000 local residents.
Today’s funding comes in the form of a $5.8 million loan through USDA’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program in partnership with $31,000 provided by the city of Biwabik. Since 2009, USDA Rural Development has invested over $393 million in loans and grants to build or improve over 330 water and wastewater treatment facilities throughout rural Minnesota.
Rural Development also invests in housing, community facilities, rural small businesses, renewable energy and broadband. To learn more about Rural Development programs, visit www.rd.usda.gov/mn and call your local area office.