U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall, D-WV, announced today that the Brooks Barksdale Wastewater Treatment expansion project in Summers County has been awarded $205,000 in federal funding from the Southern West Virginia Environmental Infrastructure Program.

"Our Nation's water infrastructure is often taken for granted, but in southern West Virginia we know that clean, safe water is not a guarantee; it requires investment," Rahall said. "I will continue to do all that I can to secure the needed federal investments for modern water and sewer systems. This project in Summers County, being funded by the Environmental Infrastructure Program, fits well within my vision of helping to provide southern West Virginia communities with a safe, healthy environment."

The Environmental Infrastructure Program was put into place by Rahall many years ago and has helped fund numerous projects throughout southern West Virginia since its creation. To date, Rahall has secured approximately $22 million in federal funds for the program, which, with the support of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, helps local communities in the Third Congressional District develop water and flood control projects.

The funding for the Brooks Barksdale expansion will be used in the design of approximately 32,000 linear feet of sewer line, three pump stations, and other equipment necessary to provide wastewater service to the Brooks and Barksdale communities in Summers County. Design of improvements to the existing wastewater treatment plant consisting of a screening and grit removal system, along with a building to provide cover for the additional improvements, will also be included.