Rep. Simpson Advances Funding for Water Improvement Projects in American Falls, Bellevue, and Rigby

WASHINGTON-Today, Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson-Chairman of the House Interior and Environment Appropriations Subcommittee-highlighted the inclusion of $11,000,000 in funding for the State and Tribal Assistance Grants (STAG) for the cities of American Falls, Bellevue, and Rigby Idaho, at his request through Community Project Funding (CPF) in the Fiscal Year 2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act.

"During this pivotal time for water in Idaho, I am proud of the resources provided for water infrastructure projects and the impact they will have in our neighborhoods," said Rep. Simpson. "As Idaho's only appropriator, it is my honor and responsibility to advocate for Idaho and ensure our state's priorities are heard. I am proud of the collaborative effort with my office and the cities of American Falls, Bellevue, and Rigby to produce meaningful results for our communities."

"The City of American Falls is working on a generational, city-wide water project that will repair infrastructure and conserve water to allow the City to thrive in the future. This project is essential but costly to our small community, so every dollar that alleviates fiscal burden from our citizens is greatly appreciated. We are so incredibly grateful for Congressman Simpson's help to secure $2 million, and we are excited to see the good that we can create together for our current and future residents," said Mayor Rebekah Sorensen, City of American Falls.

"Our city faces issues with growth, water usage, and undersized lines. The American Falls Drinking Water Project will correct these issues-but at a high cost. The work has to be done, and it has been a struggle finding enough funding for this vital project while keeping up with the other demands of a city. We thank Congressman Simpson for being an ally to us in Congress to get a significant share of taxpayer monies returned to this area to help cover the cost of upgrading our water system," said Scott Dalling, American Falls Water Superintendent.

"On behalf of the City of Bellevue, as Mayor of our community, I would like to extend my deep gratitude and appreciation for Congressman Simpson's leadership in advancing $4,000,000 in Community Project Funding towards the City's public drinking water system improvements project. The funding will be used to bring the City's drinking water system back into regulatory compliance with the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality, providing long-term, reliable drinking water services to Bellevue. These funds will help offset the exorbitant costs of the required improvements ensuring affordable drinking water services to those who live, work, and recreate in our community . Thank you for the representing the great state of Idaho, and small communities like ours,"saidMayor Chris Johnson, City of Bellevue.

"The City of Rigby is very excited about the STAG funding announcement. The funding will greatly assist in making much needed improvements to the City's water facilities. We are grateful to Congressman Simpson's office for assisting us with this opportunity. This investment in our community will help us be better prepared for our future needs and growth," said Mayor Richard Datwyler, City of Rigby.

American Falls

This funding would be used to replace 13 miles of noncompliant lines to meet the needs of citizens and fire flow. Due to the higher than typical per capita water usage, meters will be added to all city connections. The energy and water savings provided by this project will allow the city to become more resilient to drought emergencies.

Bellevue

This funding would be used for construction of a new collection system at Seamans Creek Springs, installation of a new diversion structure, reconstruction of the Lower Springs collection transmission system, replacement of approximately 17,000 linear feet water transmission main, and approximately 2,000 linear feet of watermain replacement along Highway 75.

Rigby

This funding would be used for construction of a new 1.5-million-gallon tank to provide adequate storage to address deficiencies in peak system usage and emergency situations. The city will also upgrade an existing 6" water line to a 16" water line that runs under US Highway 20 and several railroad tracks to provide adequate flow to the eastern part of the city. A recent study revealed areas of deficiency the city needs to address to continue to provide adequate supply and flow of drinking water for its current residents.

Despite claims that CPF projects are "wasteful earmarks," Community Project Funding gives Members of Congress like Congressman Simpson the opportunity to bring Idaho tax dollars back home for Idaho priorities. These projects fill a clear and present need in communities across Idaho and enjoy broad community support. The federal dollars designated for CPF projects exist within existing budget limits. Rather than that money going to fund projects in different states, CPF projects give Idahoans a critical voice in determining where budgeted funding goes.

As Idaho's only appropriator, Rep. Simpson has a unique opportunity to fight for Idaho's priorities and ensure Idahoans' hard-earned tax dollars return to Idaho.

These STAG projects are a part of the Fiscal Year 2025 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This measure has been approved by the full House of Representatives and will now go to the Senate for further consideration.

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