Rural Infrastructure Authority awards more than $9 million in water and sewer grants
November 16, 2016
Twenty-five projects across the state to receive funding
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Building capacity in water, sewer and storm drainage infrastructure continues to be the focus of the S.C. Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA), as its Board of Directors recently approved more than $9 million in grant awards for 25 projects across South Carolina. More than half of the projects funded were in counties designated as Tier III and IV, which are considered to be less developed.
More than 23,000 residential customers and 2,000 businesses will benefit from the improvements, thereby strengthening the efforts to protect public health and the environment, as well as support existing and new economic activities.
“This financial assistance is a direct investment in the future of South Carolina’s communities,” said Executive Director Bonnie Ammons. “By ensuring that residents have safe drinking water and a clean environment, we improve the quality of life and open the door to future opportunities.”
Whether assisting local utilities that are facing regulatory compliance requirements or funding projects to upgrade aging infrastructure in need of repair, replacement or greater capacity, the RIA is committed to supporting local efforts to improve water and sewer service to residents and businesses.
Grants are awarded through a competitive process that considers needs for improved public health, environmental protection, community sustainability and economic development. Applicants are required to match the RIA funding request. Applications are selected by the RIA Board based on criteria including: severity of the problem, expected impact and feasibility of the project.
A full list of grant recipients for the first round of fiscal year 2017 is below. To learn more about RIA or how to apply for grant assistance, visit www.ria.sc.gov.
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About S.C. Department of Commerce:
As South Carolina’s leading economic development agency, the Department of Commerce works to recruit new businesses and help existing business grow. Commerce has recruited world-class companies to South Carolina such as BMW, Boeing, Continental, Giti Tire, LPL Financial Holdings, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Toray and Volvo Cars and also supports startups, small and existing business, innovation and rural development initiatives. Commerce partners with the S.C. Technical College System via readySC to support workforce training and recruiting, and with the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce, which provides worker training and employment opportunities within the state. In three of the last five years, IBM-Plant Location International reports ranked South Carolina first in the nation for attracting jobs through foreign investment, per capita. The state won the Gold Shovel Award and the Project of Year Award from Area Development magazine in 2012, 2014 and 2015. For more information, visit www.SCcommerce.com.
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