Department of Natural Resources awards $50,000 grant to Delta…

City will evaluate wastewater system improvements

JEFFERSON CITY, MO, JULY 16, 2024 - The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded a $50,000 Clean Water Engineering Report Grant to the city of Delta, in Cape Girardeau County, to evaluate the city's wastewater system.

The department's Clean Water Engineering Report Grant program offers funding to small communities for wastewater engineering costs incurred in preparation of a facility plan report. The city will use the grant to develop a report detailing wastewater system improvements needed to continue reliable service to the area, meet permit requirements and reduce inflow and infiltration of stormwater into sewer collection pipes. The facility plan should be complete in December 2025.

"This grant allows communities like Delta to assess their wastewater treatment system and identify improvements that will keep them operating effectively," said Dru Buntin, director of the Department of Natural Resources. "This not only helps communities maintain and improve key infrastructure, it provides important economic benefits as well."

Water and wastewater systems are essential infrastructure that support the health and economic vitality of a community. Through the grant, the city has an opportunity to assess their plant and identify improvements for efficiency and effectiveness, capacity, and to satisfy public health and water quality regulations. This will help the community plan for future growth and development and determine what actions are needed to address their wastewater needs.

The department is committed to assisting Missouri communities with water and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. Through its Financial Assistance Center, the department provides funding opportunities for qualified communities with water quality, wastewater and drinking water infrastructure needs. This project will be funded wholly or in part with monies received from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

For more information on wastewater and drinking water funding opportunities, visit dnr.mo.gov/water/business-industry-other-entities/financial-opportunities/financial-assistance-center.