For immediate release: February 19, 2009 (09-027)

Contacts:
Leslie Gates, Office of Drinking Water 360-236-3098
Carolyn Cox, Office of Drinking Water 360-236-3162
Gordon MacCracken, Communications Office 360-236-4072

Stimulus funds for economic recovery will pay for state water system projects

OLYMPIA ¾ The federal economic recovery money will help Washington communities pay for water system projects that assure safe and reliable drinking water and protect public health.

The Washington State Department of Health expects to have about $36 million for grants and zero-interest or low-interest loans to help fund water system improvements. These projects can include new water treatment systems, as well as work to replace or repair aging reservoirs, pipes, and other equipment.

Water systems can apply for up to $6 million for projects that can begin construction within a year. Applications must be postmarked by February 27 to be considered.

Projects that can begin within four months will be considered first. The agency also will favor projects that address public health needs and those in economically distressed communities where jobs are sorely needed.

The funding is part of the $787 billion federal economic recovery package signed this week. The new package requires that 20 percent of the money be spent on “green” projects. For water systems, that could mean such things as projects that save water.

Applications and information (www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/dw/default.htm) about how the agency will award the economic recovery funds is available on the Department of Health Web site.

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