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More than $25 million in grant funding awarded across South Carolina
The S.C. Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) has approved grant assistance for 36 projects, totaling more than $25 million in its second round of funding for fiscal year 2024. These projects will benefit communities in 22 counties, promoting quality of life, economic opportunity and sustainability across South Carolina. The agency’s tagline, “we’re here to help,” is exemplified through continued efforts to meaningfully invest in infrastructure and planning projects for water and wastewater systems as well as storm water drainage facilities. The total funds awarded by RIA this fiscal year is over $44 million.
“To ensure all communities and businesses have the opportunity to thrive, we must address the state’s critical infrastructure needs and plan for long-term viability,” said Executive Director Bonnie Ammons. “More than 10 years of RIA grants demonstrate the profound impact that strategic investment and proactive planning have on our communities as we build a stronger future for all South Carolinians.”
The May 2024 grant awards will be combined with over $46 million in local and other funds to carry out necessary capital improvements and planning activities that are expected to benefit more than 200,000 customers, with more than 60% of projects reaching rural and distressed communities.
Several of the projects funded by these partnerships will create stronger utilities through regional solutions. Ten projects will address pressing health and environmental concerns, including some that will also contribute to greater resiliency and storm protection. Others will improve or replace aging infrastructure that is beyond its useful life, increase services and capacity for existing and future customers, and support economic development activities for job creation and retention.
In addition, grant awards will fund 10 planning studies and system assessments that will explore the technical, operational, and financial conditions of water, sewer and stormwater systems, evaluate alternative options, and provide recommendations to achieve greater long-term viability and possible regional solutions.
RIA state grants are generally awarded twice a year through a competitive process that considers the need for improved public health, environmental protection, community sustainability and economic development.
Applications are selected by the RIA board based on criteria including severity of the problem, expected impact and project feasibility. Recipients share in the cost of infrastructure projects by paying for non-construction or other activities and, oftentimes, providing additional funds for construction.
A list of grant recipients for the second round of competitive grants for fiscal year 2024, awarded on May 20, 2024, is below. To learn more about RIA or how to apply for grant assistance, visit www.ria.sc.gov.
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