Aurora, Chisholm, Hackensack gain state funds for water infrastructure

The Minnesota Public Facilities Authority announced it was loaning or granting out $236.4 million in award funds for wastewater and drinking water infrastructure projects around the state, including three projects in rural Northern Minnesota.

A total of $15,520,238 in loans and grants are earmarked for the city of Aurora, as it works to build a new water plant, renovate existing buildings and upgrade electrical and mechanical systems.

Of the money awarded by the authority to Aurora, $3,520,238 is a 20-year loan at a low interest rate. This leads to a savings of about $419,037 for the city, according to a project brief. Aurora's new building will replace a water treatment facility that was built in the 1950s.

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Out of all the Legislature did this year, getting this funding will make the most impact around the state, said Bradley Peterson of Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities.

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The city of Chisholm was awarded $890,307 for replacing lead service lines with copper. The city of Hackensack will receive $962,662 for constructing a water main in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Transportation's project on Highway 371.

“The impact of the MPFA’s funding is felt around the state and is vital to improving not only the health of our communities, but the health of our environment and economy,” stated Matt Varilek, commissioner of the Department of Employment and Economic Development and chair of the Authority, in a news release.

“By prioritizing clean and accessible drinking water, we are working to ensure the wellbeing of our communities for years to come.”

The MPFA, according to a release, helps cities replace aging infrastructure and make system improvements to protect public health and improve water quality. Since its inception in 1987, the MPFA has provided over $7.1 billion for public infrastructure programs statewide, impacting most every community in Minnesota.

“The MPFA provides crucial financing and technical assistance to communities who might not have access to it otherwise, encouraging economic growth and protecting the health of Minnesotan communities,” stated MPFA Executive Director Steve Walter.

“Keeping our water clean, drinkable and accessible is the core goal of the MPFA and an investment in Minnesota’s economic growth and prosperity.”