Barre approved for nearly $700K for water project

BARRE – The federal government has approved a $692,000 funding package for a new water district in the Town of Barre, U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced this morning.

The Town of Barre will receive a $384,000 loan, along with a grant of $308,000 to construct a new water main, valves and hydrants that will extend clean water access to residents on Eagle Harbor, Route 31A and Long Bridge roads. Those residents currently have contaminated private wells, Schumer and Gillibrand said.

The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program.

“With this funding and low-interest loan, the Town of Barre in Orleans County will now be able to make crucial improvements to its water district without passing the entire financial burden onto local taxpayers,” Schumer said. “This water main expansion is a wise investment in infrastructure that will enhance access to clean drinking water, which is vital to the town and its residents’ long-term health and prosperity.”

USDA Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Program provides loans and grants to ensure that the necessary investments are made in water and wastewater infrastructure to deliver safe drinking water and protect the environment in rural areas.

“This is a major investment for Barre residents, and those who are looking to move or open new businesses in town,” Gillibrand said. “Access to safe, clean, and sustainable water is imperative and I am pleased this federal funding will be going to provide residents with access to that basic necessity. Continuous improvements like this one protect the health of our families and help spur growth and longevity in our communities.”