Gov. Kristi Noem announced last Thursday that the State Board of Water and Natural Resources has approved a $1,375,000 funding package for Lennox to make water, wastewater, and storm water improvements.
The board previously awarded $2.408 million in loans and $2.270 million in grants for the project in June 2017. The additional funds include a $1,000,000 loan from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and a $375,000 loan from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. Loan terms are 2.75 percent for 30 years. This funding will allow Lennox to complete phase two and begin phase three of its water, wastewater, and storm water improvements project, referred to as the Central Basin Phases 2 and 3.
The funding package will be administered through the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
“I am pleased to announce that Lennox will receive this assistance,” said Gov. Noem. “This funding will help the city complete upgrades to its water, wastewater, and storm water systems to better serve its customers.”
The project includes replacement of 4,900 feet of sanitary sewer lines and 2,400 feet of water mainlines with new PVC pipe and installation of eight concrete manholes and 4,200 feet of new storm sewer system. Streets within the project boundary will be upgraded with new curb and gutter and new asphalt surfacing. Phase three work is tentatively planned for 2020.
The estimated cost of the project is $6.053 million.
City Administrator Nathan Vander Plaats said they were confident the city would get the funding but that it’s never a done deal until the announcement is made.
Vander Plaats said the surcharges on residents’ water and sewer bills are what secures the debt for the project.
The State of South Dakota and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency fund the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Program, which provides low-interest loans for wastewater, storm water and non-point source projects.
The State of South Dakota and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency fund the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Program, which provides low-interest loans for public drinking water system projects.
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