Last week, the newly appointed USDA Rural Development State Director, Theresa Greenfield, visited Clarion to share some exciting news about city infrastructure. Clarion will receive a $8.1 million low interest loan through the USDA’s Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grant Program.
As has been discussed at many Clarion City Council meetings, this money will be used for the city’s new water treatment facility. Portions of it will also be used to make improvements to an existing well and install a new roof and provide a heater for the pump house.
There is a need for a new water treatment facility in Clarion because the old one is dilapidated and there is a risk of failure. In the past, ISG engineers have explained it would likely be more costly to repair the current one than building new. A new facility is estimated to cost approximately $7.3 million and will be located south of the old skating rink, between 1st and 2nd Street SW. The new plant will use a reverse osmosis filtration system. The facility will result in improved water quality with a significant reduction in hardness.
During her visit, Greenfield noted that she has only been in the director position for a couple weeks, but getting to visit small towns like Clarion is the highlight. “This loan represents an investment of tax dollars for a modern water system and safe drinking water,” Greenfield said. She also added that this is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to help rural America “build back better.”
While at city hall, Greenfield took a brief tour of the existing water treatment plant. Director of Public Works Jon DeVries showed her around and stressed they how needed a new facility is at present. He added that they will also be receiving $600,000 in CDBG grant funds for the project. He emphasized that the city is on track to complete the project without having to raise water rates. Greenfield thanked him for his dedicated service to the town and the project.
Greenfield also discussed another USDA loan that would benefit local infrastructure. Corn Belt Power Cooperative, a partner of Prairie Energy, is set to receive $91 million loan to assist with financing transmission and generation system improvements.
