NEWS RELEASE

FOR RELEASE: Monday, Jan. 23, 2012

CONTACT: Brooke Bohnenkamp, Governor’s Office of Economic Development, 605-773-3301

Menno Receives Grant to Improve Wastewater System

PIERRE, S.D. – A federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) approved by Gov. Dennis Daugaard will help upgrade the sewer system in Menno.

The Governor awarded the City of Menno $207,500 in CDBG funds to replace aging wastewater collection lines. Menno’s wastewater system was installed nearly a century ago, and many of the aging lines scheduled to be replaced are original clay lines.

“Obviously, sewer lines that are 100 years old have sustained considerable wear and aren’t as efficient as they should be,” Gov. Daugaard said. “Efficient and effective wastewater service is a necessity for any community.  I’m pleased the state can help Menno improve its wastewater system.”

The project, expected to be complete in late 2013, will replace 7,615 linear feet of pipe. The majority of pipe replacement will happen along Park, Fifth, High, and Pearl streets. 

CDBG is a reimbursement program, and Menno will receive funds as work is completed.

The CDBG program provides communities and counties with financial resources to address a wide range of unique development needs.  Past grants have been used for improvements and construction of community buildings, water systems, and sewer systems.

The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development funds the CDBG Program, and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development administers it.