South Raleigh News

Governor Josh Stein has announced a substantial allocation of over $265 million in funding for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure projects across North Carolina. This initiative will support 99 projects spread over 45 counties, focusing on improving access to safe drinking water and addressing environmental concerns such as emerging contaminants (PFAS) and lead pipe replacement.

"When we invest in our infrastructure, we build a stronger and safer state for every North Carolinian," said Governor Josh Stein. "This funding will help ensure more North Carolinians have access to safe and clean drinking water and will strengthen our communities for decades to come."

The funds are aimed at enhancing public health through vital infrastructure improvements. DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson emphasized the significance of these investments: "Every family expects and deserves clean water when they turn on the tap. These investments will provide critical infrastructure to help improve public health and quality of life for North Carolinians in communities large and small across our state."

Highlighted projects include:

- Kings Mountain in Gaston County will receive $2 million from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Drinking Water funds to replace lead and copper service lines.

- The Town of Fair Bluff in Columbus County is set to receive $1 million for constructing a well outside the floodplain, replacing one damaged by hurricanes.

- Nags Head in Dare County will get $500,000 to repair septic systems under the Decentralized Wastewater Treatment System Pilot Program.

- New Hanover County is allocated $3 million for installing new water lines.

- River Bend in Craven County receives $10.4 million for water treatment system improvements.

- Columbus County Water District IV is awarded $15 million to extend services within the Waccamaw Siouan Tribal Area.

- Roanoke Rapids Sanitary District obtains $5 million for PFAS removal facilities.

- Bessemer City secures $2.5 million for replacing galvanized service lines.

A complete list of funded projects can be accessed on the Department of Environmental Quality website.

The NCDEQ's Division of Water Infrastructure evaluated 203 applications requesting a total sum exceeding $1.63 billion, with final awards sanctioned by the State Water Infrastructure Authority during its February 19 meeting.

Funding sources encompass several programs including Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Funds (DWSRF), Clean Water State Revolving Loan Funds (CWSRF), Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocations, Viable Utilities Reserve, among others. Applications for Spring 2025 funding open on March 4 until April 30, with training available both virtually and through statewide sessions.

The independent State Water Infrastructure Authority oversees federal and state fund allocations for such initiatives. NCDEQ also provides emergency assistance post-Tropical Storm Helene damages via direct requests through their Division of Water Infrastructure.