U.S. Rep. Nick J. Rahall (D-WV) was successful in earmarking $1 million in federal investments in the Fiscal Year 2007 Interior Appropriations bill for the City of Milton's water system upgrade and extension project. The bill, which represents the first hurdle in securing funding, passed the U.S. House of Representatives on Thursday.

"I am pleased to assist the City of Milton with its water system improvement project," said Rahall. "As we all know in southern West Virginia, access to safe, clean, drinkable water is of utmost importance. The House Appropriations Committee recognized, as I did, the need in Milton for water system upgrades and I am happy to have played a role in clearing this first hurdle toward achieving funding."

The legislation needs to be approved by the U.S. Senate and signed into law by the President before the funding is made official.

The project consists of various water line extensions to provide service to the east Milton area, a new water storage tank, improvements to the water treatment plant and water line replacement in the downtown Milton area.

Rahall has been a strong advocate on behalf of southern West Virginia's communities when it comes to securing funding for water projects, including providing increased access to clean drinking water, wastewater improvements and flood protection.

"Our Nation's water infrastructure is often overlooked but in southern West Virginia we do not have that luxury. 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. The City of Milton's water project fits well within my vision of providing southern West Virginia communities with good, clean water."

"I look forward to working with Mayor Betty Sargent, State legislative representatives and the City Council on making this project a success," said Rahall.