(PHILADELPHIA - December 16, 2014
) The E.P.A. has approved a $54 million project submitted by Delaware for clean water projects, including efforts that will enhance local water quality by eliminating failing septic systems, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through energy enhancements at wastewater treatment plants.
The Intended Use Project approved by E.P.A. includes $6.8 million from EPA's FY 2014 Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF). The state's CWSRF plan makes low-interest loans to assist communities in protecting and improving water quality for drinking water, recreation and natural habitat. To fund the plan, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) has incorporated this year's E.P.A. grant funds with $47.2 million comprised of prior year CWSRF loan repayments, interest paid by local governments on their loans and state matching funds.
"We're working closely with our state partners to best utilize these funds in meeting critical infrastructure needs that protect public health and the environment," said E.P.A. Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin. "These clean water infrastructure enhancements are investments that will provide long-term benefits for Delaware communities."
"Investing in clean water infrastructure pays tremendous dividends for Delaware's environment and economy," said DNREC Secretary David Small. "We appreciate EPA's capitalization grant and along with our state matching funds and loan repayments, Delaware is maximizing backing to address critical clean water plans that help make our precious bays, rivers and streams cleaner and healthier, protect public health, and provide jobs and economic growth in our communities."
According to the plan,
Sussex Co. will gain $6.7 million for an infrastructure plan in the Angola North region consisting of wastewater collection and transmission systems to eliminate failing septic systems.
Failing septic systems release bacteria, viruses, and chemicals toxic to local waterways. When these pollutants are released into the ground, they eventually enter streams, rivers and lakes, harming local ecosystems by killing native plants, fish, and shellfish.
The
City of Lewes will gain $1.47 million for its Highland Acres wastewater collection system and another $1.62 million for its Savannah Place wastewater collection system. Both of these infrastructure improvement plans will also eliminate failing septic systems.
The
City of Seaford will gain $2.01 million for its Renewable Energy Solar System plan at its wastewater treatment plant. The funds will be used to install a ground mounted solar array to generate 421 kilowatts DC of energy to offset the energy consumption at the Seaford Treatment Plant. This plan will significantly reduce greenhouse gases from the wastewater facility.
In addition to these projects, 6 others totaling $42.2 million are being funded under Delaware's FY 2014 Intended Use Plan. Plans on the approved Intended Use Project must commence within 18 months.
Low interest loans through the CWSRF plan assist communities financially by ensuring that water and sewer rates are kept as affordable as possible while still addressing local water quality problems. All Plans financed through the CWSRF are vital to protect and restore water quality in our nation's rivers, lakes, and streams.
For additional information about Delaware's CWSRF plan and a full listing of Plans in the IUP, visit:
http://www.dnrec.delaware.gov/fab/Pages/default.aspx.
