Montana Awards $3.4 Million for Rural Water and Sewage Improvements

The Montana Department of Commerce announced on December 24 that five Montana towns would receive a total of $3,484,612 through the Community Development Block Grant Public and Community Facilities Program to fund construction and rehabilitation of critical infrastructure. The grants were awarded to Darby, Ennis, Philipsburg, Richey and Roundup for water and wastewater improvements.

The Town of Darby received $734,612 for wastewater system improvements. The Town of Ennis was awarded $750,000 for water system improvements. The Town of Philipsburg will receive $750,000 for public water supply improvements. The Town of Richey received $500,000 for water system upgrades. The City of Roundup was awarded $750,000 for wastewater system improvements.

The CDBG Public and Community Facilities Program helps local governments fund projects that primarily benefit low and moderate income Montanans or individuals earning less than 80 percent of the area median income. Eligible projects include new construction or rehabilitation of water and wastewater systems, non rental shelters such as domestic violence shelters or youth homes, and public facilities including food banks, Head Start centers, nursing homes, mental health centers and senior centers.

Counties, incorporated cities and towns and consolidated city county governments are eligible to apply subject to certain exceptions for the largest cities. The funds are intended to build capacity and resiliency in communities by addressing basic infrastructure needs that carry both public health and economic implications.

For residents of Lewis and Clark County, the awards are a reminder of available state funding streams for infrastructure projects that serve vulnerable populations. Local governments and nonprofit service providers here may consider the CDBG program for future projects, and local contractors and suppliers could see increased demand as neighboring communities begin construction. Improved water and wastewater systems in recipient towns will reduce public health risks and support long term community resilience.

Officials and community leaders seeking more information on eligibility and application cycles can find details at commerce.mt.gov.