Old North News

Governor Josh Stein and the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) have announced over $265 million in funding for water infrastructure projects across the state. This initiative will support 99 projects in 45 counties, focusing on improving drinking water and wastewater systems.

Governor Stein emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, “When we invest in our infrastructure, we build a stronger and safer state for every North Carolinian.” He highlighted that the funding would ensure access to safe drinking water and strengthen communities.

DEQ Secretary Reid Wilson echoed these sentiments: “Every family expects and deserves clean water when they turn on the tap.” He noted that these investments are crucial for public health and quality of life improvements statewide.

Several significant projects were outlined:

- Kings Mountain in Gaston County will receive $2 million to replace lead and copper service lines.

- Fair Bluff in Columbus County is allocated $1 million to construct a well outside the floodplain.

- Nags Head in Dare County will get $500,000 for septic system repairs under a pilot program.

- New Hanover County is set to receive $3 million to install new water lines connecting residential units.

- River Bend in Craven County will use $10.4 million for enhancements to its water treatment systems.

- Columbus County Water District IV is awarded $15 million for new infrastructure serving the Waccamaw Siouan Tribal Area.

- Roanoke Rapids Sanitary District in Halifax County will utilize $5 million to remove PFAS from drinking water.

- Bessemer City also receives funds for replacing galvanized water service lines.

The NCDEQ's Division of Water Infrastructure reviewed 203 applications requesting a total of $1.63 billion. The State Water Infrastructure Authority approved these awards during its February 19 meeting.

Funding sources include various federal and state programs such as Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Funds (DWSRF), Clean Water State Revolving Loan Funds (CWSRF), Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds, Viable Utilities Reserve, and Community Development Block Grant-Infrastructure program. Projects funded with Viable Utility Reserve funds require approval by the Local Government Commission.

Applications for Spring 2025 funding open on March 4 and close on April 30. Training sessions are scheduled both in-person and virtually from March 4 through March 12.

The State Water Infrastructure Authority plays a key role in awarding funding for these projects. Additionally, NCDEQ administers emergency funds for areas affected by Tropical Storm Helene, with local governments able to request assistance directly from the Division of Water Infrastructure.