KNIGHTSTOWN, Ind. – November 12, 2021 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Indiana Rural Development representatives joined Knightstown officials, FPBH Inc and other dignitaries at a ribbon cutting today to celebrate the completion of their wastewater treatment plant upgrade.
“Efficient and up-to-date water and wastewater infrastructure is critical to the economic resiliency of rural Indiana,” Acting State Director Curtis Johnson said. “USDA’s investment ensures a foundation for growth and protects precious environmental resources that are vital to the sustainability of our rural communities.”
In Henry County, Ind., the Town of Knightstown used $6.8 million in direct, low-interest loans to upgrade the wastewater treatment plant and collection system to mitigate the Early Warning Sewer Ban Notice they received from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. The original collection system was built in the early 1970’s with approximately 32,000 linear feet of clay pipe that was deteriorating and past its useful life. The project also addressed groundwater and stormwater issues for the 2,200 residents, repaired three lift stations and manhole work. Now that the upgrades are completed, the Town can connect additional users and has the increased capacity to prepare for future needs of the area.
USDA is funding this project through the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program. This program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal and storm water drainage to households and businesses in eligible rural areas with populations of 10,000 or less.
Under the Biden-Harris Administration, Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, Tribal and high-poverty areas.
Information on programs available through USDA Rural Development is available by visiting www.rd.usda.gov/in or calling 317-290-3100. If you’d like to subscribe to Indiana USDA Rural Development updates, visit our GovDelivery subscriber page.
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