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$291,000 Grant to Ottumwa, Iowa, for Sewer Project

Release Date: 04/20/2010
Contact Information: Kris Lancaster, (913) 551-7557, lancaster.kris@epa.gov


Environmental News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Kansas City, Kan., April 20, 2010) - EPA has awarded $291,000 to Ottumwa, Iowa, for ongoing construction of a multi-phased combined sewer separation project.

EPA Region 7 Administrator Karl Brooks said, “Awarding these water infrastructure funds will help prolong the useful life of the existing system. Water infrastructure is a basic necessity to protect community health and prosperity.”

The purpose of the project is to eliminate combined sewer overflows and basement backups for residents on the south side of the Des Moines River in Ottumwa. This area of the city has recorded more than 500 basement backups over a 10-year period.

The project will also reduce the amount of phosphorous entering Oxbow Lake which has been identified as impaired by algae, turbidity and chlordane.

EPA oversees the protection of water quality and public health. The Agency is working with community leaders and the public to meet the growing needs and demands of our limited water resources. EPA remains committed to developing innovative and sustainable solutions for managing and financing infrastructure with public and private partners.