Westport to receive over $3.5 million for water treatment

The USDA is investing $1.2 billion to help rebuild and improve rural water infrastructure for 936,000 rural Americans living in 46 states. Five projects in Indiana are receiving funding, including one in Decatur County.

“Access to water is a key driver for economic opportunity and quality of life in rural communities,” Hazlett said. “Under the leadership of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, USDA is committed to being a strong partner to rural communities in building prosperity through modern water infrastructure.”

The Town of Westport will use a $1,082,000 loan and a $2,552,000 grant to replace the water treatment plant. In addition, the funding will assist with distribution system upgrades, install a new water main, make improvements to the elevated storage tank, stabilize the water supply dam, and replace water meters. Officials say this project will provide safe drinking water and help protect the health of nearly 603 homes in rural Decatur County. In exchange for these funds, Westport will contribute $46,000 and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs will contribute a $700,000 grant.

For more information on USDA Rural Development, visit www.rd.usda.gov.