North Carolina officials have announced $162 million in funding for 66 wastewater infrastructure projects across the state.
The state typically invests approximately $200 million per year upgrading wastewater, stormwater, and drinking water systems — but, thanks to federal funds from the American Rescue Plan and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, North Carolina is investing $2.3 billion over two years supporting this infrastructure.
The wastewater funding came as part of a larger infrastructure investment announcement: $462.9 million for 249 wastewater, stormwater, and drinking water projects across the state.
For this round of funding, the state’s Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) received 649 applications from 91 of North Carolina’s 100 counties, and reconsidered applications from Spring 2022. In total, 734 applications were considered for funding, representing more than $3.5 billion. The awards are funded by a portion of $2.3 billion from the American Rescue Plan Act, State Revolving Funds (including Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds), and Community Development Block Grant funding.
Some notable construction projects include:
City of Lexington in Davidson County will receive $27.9 M for wastewater treatment plant improvements, including a new dewatering facility and a new facility for thermal dryer equipment.
Brunswick County will receive $14.9 M to expand sewer service to a disadvantaged/underserved area, including up to 200 new connections.
Town of Bath in Beaufort County will receive $9.8 M for a proposed regionalization project for conveyance of wastewater from the Town of Bath to the City of Washington's wastewater treatment plant via a new lift station and force main, addressing long-term viability.
City of Brevard in Transylvania County will receive $2.28 M to extend sewer lines to resolve failing septic systems. The project includes installation of 6800 linear feet of sewer lines and a pump station.
A list of all projects funded statewide is available on the NCDEQ website.