RIA approves 23 grants worth $10M

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The South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority approved 23 grants totaling more than $10 million to fund projects upgrading infrastructure across the state.

“Infrastructure investments can go unnoticed once construction is complete, but the benefit does not,” Bonnie Ammons, RIA executive director, said in a statement. “These types of projects lead to improved quality of life, protection of the environment and community sustainability.”

Grant recipients pay for non-construction activities while providing additional funds for the project.

Projects include:

• City of Aiken – sewer system improvements ($500,000)
• Anderson County – economic water infrastructure ($47,314)
• Belton-Honea Path Water Authority – water system improvements ($270,000)
• City of Bennettsville – water line upgrades ($487,900)
• Berkeley County – sewer infrastructure ($500,000)
• Calhoun County – water and sewer infrastructure ($500,000)
• City of Clemson – water system improvements ($500,000)
• Dorchester County – sewer system improvements ($457,312)
• Town of Fairfax – water line upgrades ($145,310)
• City of Florence – water system improvements ($500,000)
• Town of Holly Hill – sewer system improvements ($139,000)
• Town of Jackson – water line upgrades ($500,000)
• Town of Kershaw – sewer system improvements ($326,115)
• Town of Latta – line upgrades ($500,000)
• Laurens County Water and Sewer Commission – water line upgrades ($500,000)
• Town of Lynchburg – water line upgrades ($500,000)
• Ninety Six Commission of Public Works – pump station upgrade ($500,000)
• Town of Ridgeland – sewer system improvements ($1,000,000)
• Six Mile Rural Community Water District – water line upgrades ($350,000)
• City of Sumter – interconnection of sewer systems ($500,000)
• Union County – water tank improvements ($130,000)
• Town of Williamston – water line upgrades ($500,000)
• York County – water tank construction (500,000)

The projects provide additional capacity for new or expanding businesses that will generate jobs and private investment or ensuring safe drinking water and sanitary sewer treatment.

RIA grants are awarded twice a year through a process that considers the need for improved public health, environmental protection, community sustainability and economic development. More than 51 projects have been approved this year, totaling $22 million.