U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall, D-WV, announced today Boone County has been awarded $990,000 in federal funding from the Southern West Virginia Environmental Infrastructure Program for ongoing water projects, including $750,000 for planned construction of a new regional wastewater treatment facility.

"Our Nation's water infrastructure is often overlooked but in southern West Virginia we do not have that luxury," Rahall said. "I will continue to do all I can to secure the needed investments so our water is safe and clean and our communities are protected from flooding. These projects, being funded by the Environmental Infrastructure Program, fit well within my vision of providing southern West Virginia communities with good, clean water."

The Environmental Infrastructure Program was put in place by Rahall years ago and has helped fund many 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 our local communities in the Third Congressional District develop water and flood control projects.

The new wastewater facility project will include the removal of existing wastewater treatment facilities in the communities Wharton, Pondco, Frog Alley, Barrett, Bosses Camp and Clinton. New construction will replace 14 septic tanks and one package treatment plant.

In addition to the funding for the regional wastewater facility, $240,000 has been designated for the Anchor Road Water Extension Project. These funds will be used in the design of approximately 54,000 feet of 10-inch or smaller water lines, valves, 30 fire hydrants, individual customer meters and other related appurtenances. It also includes the design of a water storage tank and booster station.

"This is an exciting day for Boone County," Rahall said. "Projects like this might not get all of the headlines, but they play an essential role in the development of our region."