Briefing: Infrastructure Funding

Gov. Deval Patrick, along with members of the congressional delegation, recently released $185 million in federal recovery funds to be used on water infrastructure improvement projects across the state. The funds are a combination of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) grants and State Revolving Fund (SRF) financing.

What will this funding do?

Specifically, Patrick said that the funds will double the amount of water infrastructure investments in 2010, will reduce project costs for municipalities and will incorporate greater amounts of renewable energy at facilities, which will help to cut operating costs. In addition to that cost savings, this round of funding will create or preserve 4,000 jobs across the state

What kinds of projects are affected?

Wastewater projects include sewage treatment facilities and combined sewer overflow improvements. Drinking water projects include water treatment plants, storage tanks and new water main and piping systems.

How does the funding work?

The SRF will provide 2 percent, low-interest loans for communities. Now, with the addition of the ARRA funds, municipalities will have added principle forgiveness, which reduces the amount financed by 11 percent for wastewater projects and 20 percent for drinking water projects.

How expansive is the funding?

Altogether, 47 communities and districts will receive funding, which totals $571,697,200.

How will Central Massachusetts be affected?

Of the 47 communities and districts receiving funding, 11 are in Central Massachusetts. Those 11 municipalities are receiving $199,742,096. They are: Charlton, one project worth $2,827,276; Framingham, three projects totaling $48,070,997; Hopkinton, one project worth $10,490,441; Leominster, one project worth $20,000,000; Marlborough, one project worth $24,004,442; Maynard, one project worth $10,677,000; Southbridge, one project worth $1,282,334; Sturbridge, one project worth $16,989,000; Webster, one project worth $10,328,000; Westborough, one project worth $51,407,777 and Worcester, one project worth $3,664,829.

Click here to learn more about the round of funding.