EPA announces $96M loan to upgrade wastewater services in northern Colorado

EPA announces $96M loan to upgrade wastewater services in northern Colorado

September 5, 2024

"Small communities face unique challenges when they look to upgrade aging water infrastructure that provides reliable water services for residents and businesses while protecting nature," said EPA Acting Assistant Administrator for Water Bruno Pigott. "EPA is proud to partner with the Upper Thompson Sanitation District by financing 80% of their water modernization project. Through this EPA loan, the district will meet growing demand and steward water resources in Colorado."

Upper Thompson Sanitation District is upgrading and modernizing their infrastructure by constructing a new water treatment and reclamation facility and two lift stations that will comply with future environmental guidelines and meet growing demand. The upgrades will enhance the quality of the Big Thompson River, a critical water source for several downstream communities, while accommodating future population growth and expansion.

"Upper Thompson Sanitation District has provided cost-effective, high-quality water reclamation services to the Estes Valley community, home of Rocky Mountain National Park, for over 50 years," said Chris Bieker, District Manager of Upper Thompson Sanitation District. "As we prepare for our sustained, long-term environmental stewardship, borrowing through the WIFIA program allows the construction of critical new infrastructure to serve the residents of the Estes Valley and protect the Big Thompson River for decades to come. The WIFIA team has been excellent to work with and we are grateful for their support."

Upper Thompson Sanitation District will receive WIFIA financing for nearly 80% of its project costs, a flexibility offered to small community borrowers. With this loan, the district expects to save $79 million and create about 400 jobs. The district expects additional cost savings by co-financing the project with an $18 million Colorado Water Pollution Control Revolving Fund loan.

"In Colorado, we know how important it is to preserve, protect and strengthen our critical water resources, which is why I am thrilled to see such a monumental investment of federal resources making their way to one of our state's most treasured mountain communities," said House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse. "Thanks to the EPA, the Upper Thompson Sanitation District will be able to achieve its goals of replacing their aging infrastructure to meet the needs of residents in Estes Park."

Learn more about the EPA's WIFIA Programand water infrastructure investments under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.