LANSING – State Representative Mike Lahti (D-Hancock) today applauded the announcement that five counties in the U.P. will receive $45 million to ensure rural communities have safe drinking water and improved wastewater treatment facilities. The funding is part of a $65 million grant from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (stimulus money) that will create an estimated 1,500 jobs throughout the state.
"It's great news that five counties in the U.P. will receive the necessary upgrades to keep our water safe for our residents," Lahti said. "This project will not only help ensure the health of our residents, but also the health of our economy by bringing good-paying jobs to the U.P. Michigan is known for its bountiful supply of fresh water – we must keep that water in top-notch condition to attract visitors and new businesses."
The projects represent the first round of U.S. Department of Agriculture-administered funding for rural water and wastewater infrastructure. The U.P. has been awarded the following funds:
- Adams Township in Houghton County: $2.9 million for sewer projects
- Bergland Township in Ontonagon County: $4.2 million for sewer projects
- City of Crystal Falls in Iron County: $8.4 million for water projects
- Ironwood Township in Gogebic County: $1.1 million for water and sewer projects
- City of Ironwood in Gogebic County: $8.5 million for water and sewer projects
- Village of L'Anse in Baraga County: $7.5 million for sewer projects
- Oceola Township in Houghton County: $3.5 million for water projects
- Portage Township in Houghton County: $2.3 million for water and sewer projects
- Torch Lake Township in Houghton County: $6.5 million for water projects
The USDA Rural Development Water and Environmental Program provides loans and grants to ensure that necessary investments are made in water and wastewater infrastructure to deliver safe drinking water and protect rural environments.
"Our residents trust their water is safe to drink," Lahti said. "There should never be any doubt when it comes to one of our state's greatest natural resources. Our rural communities deserve these necessary upgrades."