WNC Counties Receive Federal Funding for Water Infrastructure Improvements

WNC -- July 17, 2024: Four counties in Western North Carolina—Haywood, McDowell, Avery, and Watauga—have been

awarded significant funding to address emerging contaminants (PFAS) and to conduct lead service line inventories and replacements. This funding comes as part of a broader initiative to enhance water and wastewater systems across the state, according to a recent news release.

Governor Roy Cooper emphasized the importance of these investments in the official statement. "Strong water and wastewater systems are vital for safe drinking water and economic development," said Cooper. "Thanks to federal funding from the Biden-Harris Administration and state appropriations, we’ve made historic investments to rebuild and replace aging systems, especially in rural communities, which will make our state stronger."

The funding is part of a concerted effort to tackle critical issues related to water safety and infrastructure integrity. PFAS, also known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals that have been linked to adverse health effects. The allocated resources will help identify and mitigate these contaminants, ensuring safer drinking water for residents.

In addition to addressing PFAS, the funding will support lead service line inventories and replacements. Lead contamination in drinking water is a serious public health concern, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. By identifying and replacing lead service lines, the counties can significantly reduce the risk of lead exposure and improve overall public health outcomes.

These investments are part of a larger strategy to enhance infrastructure in rural areas, which often face challenges in maintaining and upgrading essential services. The funding will enable these communities to modernize their water systems, promoting economic development and improving the quality of life for residents.

The initiative underscores the importance of collaboration between federal and state governments to address critical infrastructure needs. The Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to providing financial support, combined with state appropriations, highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure safe and reliable water services for all North Carolinians.

As these projects move forward, the impacted counties will work closely with state and federal agencies to implement the necessary improvements. The efforts will not only address immediate concerns but also lay the groundwork for a more resilient and sustainable water infrastructure system for future generations.

WNCTimes

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