Infrastructure advancements will benefit 240 households

Governor Ralph Northam today announced more than $2.5 million in grants to help Russell County upgrade water quality for 240 households and support a regional wastewater project in the Dante area.

The project, funded by Community Development Block Grants, will improve water quality flowing from Lick Creek into the Clinch River, a major water source for the area and the centerpiece of the Clinch River State Park.

“Safe and reliable water infrastructure is an important way to keep communities healthy,” said Governor Northam. “The Community Development Block Grant program is a vital tool in ensuring everyone across the Commonwealth has access to safe drinking water and reliable wastewater systems. This grant will help Russell County keep its residents safe and protect the Clinch River.”

The Department of Housing and Community Development has administered the federally-funded Community Development Block Grants program since 1982. Virginia has received approximately $18.5 million from this program annually. Funding is allocated among local government applicants through a competitive process using objective scoring criteria developed with eligible localities. This project is funded through the Community Development Block Grants Regional Water and Wastewater program, which is designed to address water and wastewater improvements on a regional scale.

“Community Development Block Grants funding provides critical aid aimed at increasing the quality of life for many Virginians,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “Improving the water and wastewater systems in Russell County will increase the water quality of the Clinch River, which will enhance tourism opportunities and provide a welcome boost to the regional economy."

The following project will receive Community Development Block Grants funding:

Dante Regional Sewer Line Extension | $2,500,000
Russell County
Russell County, in partnership with the town of St. Paul, will provide 240 households with new and/or improved sewer treatment services and a regional wastewater project. This project will address water quality in Lick Creek and serve mostly low-to moderate-income households. The project will send sewage from the Dante Sewer System to the town of St. Paul Sewer Treatment Plant. The Dante Sewer Treatment Plant will be decommissioned. A new sewer line will extend from the existing Dante system to the town of St. Paul. It will serve additional households that are not yet served by public sewer and are contributing to water quality issues in Lick Creek. Lick Creek empties into the Clinch River, which is a major water source to the area. Improved water quality will support the region’s efforts to maximize tourism benefits anticipated from the Clinch River State Park.