(The Center Square) – Projects in Wisconsin will be receiving more than $32 million in loans for water and electricity projects through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Vernon Electric Cooperative in Vernon County will receive $24.2 million to build and improve 203 miles of line and connect 801 consumers to the grid. The loan includes $2 million in smart technologies.
“These investments are strengthening critical water and electric infrastructure in several Wisconsin counties,” said USDA Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Julie Lassa. “The USDA, under the Biden-Harris Administration, is investing in modernizing rural infrastructure to improve the quality of life for residents and promote economic growth.”
Rhinelander will receive a $5.2 million loan and $1.3 million grant to improve the Messer Street water mains and the sanitary and storm sewers.
The water mains are between 30 and 50 years old and have led to sewer backups and trickle water notices for six locations to prevent freezing.
The project also includes reconstructing the sanitary sewer system by removing and replacing sanitary sewer lines and manholes along with the Rose Street lift station.
Lyndon Station will receive $1.5 million for upgrades to its sewer collection and lift station system to address the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources phosphorous requirement.
The project will incorporate bio and chemical removal of phosphorus and a proposed reed bed sludge treatment/disposal system. The current components were constructed in 2000, when the lagoon system was replaced with the mechanical treatment system.