FRANKFORT, Ky. (Dec. 17, 2020) – Gov. Andy Beshear announced today $450,000 from the Appalachian Regional Commission’s (ARC) Distressed County Infrastructure Program to upgrade the wastewater system in Middlesboro.
“Strong, reliable infrastructure is crucial for all Kentucky communities as we emerge from the coronavirus threat in 2021 ready to embrace new economic opportunities,” said Gov. Beshear. “Safe drinking water is a human right, and ensuring reliable water and sewer service ensures better health outcomes for our families. This is a big part of how we build a stronger, better Kentucky.”
Currently, Middlesboro’s 34-year-old system frequently fails and requires expensive repairs. The project will update the main sewage lift station and address the aging pumps at the wastewater treatment plant to provide more reliable water and sewer infrastructure. Upon completion, 605 businesses and 4,345 households will receive reliable service. Upgrades will also save the city approximately $17,000 annually.
“The ARC is a crucial partner in Eastern Kentucky, because they are dedicated to providing quality infrastructure in our communities when they need it most,” said Dennis Keene, Gov. Beshear’s ARC Alternate and Department for Local Government (DLG) commissioner. “Thanks to this investment, thousands of Kentuckians will have better wastewater service.”
Middlesboro Mayor Rick Nelson expressed gratitude for the funding.
“I want to thank Gov. Andy Beshear and Commissioner Dennis Keene for approving this project for the citizens of Middlesboro,” said Mayor Nelson. “They understand the importance of reliable infrastructure in our communities.”
In fiscal year 2020, ARC awarded record funding for health care, infrastructure upgrades, economic development and more in Eastern Kentucky communities.
More Information
Read about other key updates, actions and information from Gov. Beshear and his administration at governor.ky.gov and the state’s response to COVID-19 at kycovid19.ky.gov.
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