MONTGOMERY —Gov. Kay Ivey has announced a $199,876 grant that will enable the town of New Site to extend public water service to residents and several businesses.
Funds from the Appalachian Regional Commission will be used to connect 15 households and two businesses to the town’s water supply. Those households and businesses have been relying on private wells which are undependable and can offer poor-quality water.
“Public water is a service that many of us take for granted, but that is not the case in rural Alabama where many families are reliant on wells as their only water source,” Gov. Ivey said. “I am pleased that this Appalachian Regional Commission funding means these families and businesses in New Site are able to drink, take baths, wash clothes and have peace of mind from obtaining their water from a public water source.”
The project involves installing 17,000 feet of water line to serve residents along parts of Deer Trail and Simpson roads in the north part of town. In addition to providing a reliable water service and increasing water pressure, two fire hydrants will be installed in the project area. At least one of the two farms connecting to the service will be able to expand its chicken-growing operation.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers the ARC program in Alabama.
“The Appalachian Regional Commission has been a tremendous asset to Alabama communities who are part of the region, and I am so thankful for their contributions to this state,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join with Gov. Ivey and ARC on this project that will be life changing to those affected.”
ARC is an economic development agency of the federal government and 13 state governments. The agency’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia to help the region achieve socioeconomic parity with the nation. Thirty-seven Alabama counties, including Tallapoosa County, are part of the ARC region and eligible for funds.
ADECA manages a range of programs that support law enforcement, economic development, recreation development, energy conservation and water resource management.
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Jim Plott or Mike Presley
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