Two communities in Martin County and one in Faribault County are set to receive grants from the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority (MPFA) to upgrade their wastewater and drinking water infrastructure. Blue Earth, Northrop, and Welcome were among the communities awarded grant funding.
“Water quality has been on everyone’s mind for a few years now,” said Sen. Julie Rosen (R-Vernon Center). “In 21st Century Minnesota, nobody should have to worry about the cleanliness of their drinking water. This is one of the most basic expectations of government. I could not be happier to see that Blue Earth, Northrop, and Welcome will be able to upgrade their facilities and give peace of mind to their residents. These three communities are just the beginning.”
According to the official announcement, the projects set to receive funding are as follows:
Blue Earth, $7.69 million
The city, which is planning improvements to its wastewater treatment plant, was awarded a $7.69 million low-interest loan from the PFA’s Clean Water Revolving Fund. The 20-year, 1.275 percent loan will save the city $1.28 million compared with what it would have paid for a conventional loan of the same amount.
Northrop, $342,204
The city was awarded a loan of $342,204 from the Drinking Water Revolving Fund to rehabilitate the municipal water tower. The 20-year, 1 percent loan will save the city $66,837 compared with what it would have paid for a conventional loan of the same amount.
Welcome, $789,200
Welcome will build a new water tower and install two natural gas generators. The PFA approved the city for a $789,200 loan from the Drinking Water Revolving Fund. The 20-year, 1 percent loan will save the city $137,696 compared with a conventional loan. In addition, the city is providing $170,000 for the project.
The MPFA makes low-interest loans and grants available to eligible communities throughout Minnesota to help fund infrastructure improvements they would not otherwise be able to afford. The agency has funded $4.5 billion in infrastructure projects since 1987.