MORRISONVILLE WATER DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

This is a four-phase project! The first 3 phase’s will be part of this funding round and construction. Phase #1 includes all new 12” mains from the bridge following State Route 22b proceeding to and up Flat Rock Road to the water storage tower off of Soper street and a new 8” main line on River Street. Phase #2 includes a new 8” main on Mason Street. Phase #3 includes all new 8” mains on Emory Street, Maple Street, Church Street and Julia LN. This project is nearing the construction phase. I have been working with the residents and the Town Board a little over 3 years to bring this project to completion. Countless hours have been spent to move this major water rebuild forward. This system was built between 1953 & 1956. It had a life expectancy of between 50 and 70 years. As simple math would tell you that this year major parts of this system have now outlived or will shortly be beyond their live expectancy. Recognizing this, I began work on this project in early 2000 when I took office. Funding was the major hurtle to overcome. There are 323 water district users and as I started getting cost estimates, it quickly became apparent that grants would be needed to make it affordable for them. The cost analysis came in at $8.1 million dollars. Over the last three years I have applied for multiple grants. I am proud to say, after many hours of hard work we have received several. We have received $1.25 million from CDBG, $2,562,500 from Congressional Funding and $1.3 million from USDARD and a low interest loan locked in at 1.75% for up to 38 years. I am still working on an agreement that will reduce this project by an additional $1 million. All totaled that comes up to $6,112,500.00 in grants and agreement reduction for this project. That brings the cost of this project estimate down to $1,987,500.00 or 25% of original cost. Although I still recognize this is a large expenditure, it is a needed investment and I will continue to cut cost where it is possible.