Water project gets financial boost (L-R) Tim Meeks and Fred Rader
of the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Council, Sen. Jeff Kessler, Del. Bill Stemple, Gov. Joe Manchin, Mt. Zion PSD representative Wilma
Mace and Calhoun Commission President Larry McCallister
It's an optimistic prediction - public water could be flowing to customers in southern Calhoun County, Sand Ridge, Sassafras Ridge to Russett as early as next year.
The nearly $4.5 million project is quickly moving forward following a recent funding boost with the announcement of a $1.5 million grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission.
USDA Rural Utilities had already earmarked a $1.8 million grant and a $600,000 loan for the project three years ago. An additional $600,000 grant-loan combination from the USDA has been requested to cover expected increases in the cost of construction.
The Spencer engineering firm of Boyles and Hildreth is currently reviewing the project, which calls for the construction of water lines from Arnoldsburg to the Upper West Fork Park.
The project, initiated locally by the Mt. Zion PSD and the Calhoun Commission, appears to be ahead of schedule for such water projects.
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