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EPA Awards $382,000 for Ottumwa's Water Infrastructure

Release Date: 09/26/2008
Contact Information: Kris Lancaster, (913) 551-7557, [email protected]

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Environmental News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Kansas City, Kan., Sept. 26, 2008) - EPA has awarded $382,000 to the City of Ottumwa, Iowa, for ongoing construction of a multi-phased combined sewer separation project.

The purpose of the overall project is to eliminate combined sewer overflows on the south side of the Des Moines River in Ottumwa, Iowa, by 2013. Once completed, the project will reduce overflows, and subsequently, basement backups. This area recorded more than 500 basement backups in a recent 10-year period.

EPA Region 7 Administrator John Askew said, "EPA is proud to award the City of Ottumwa with these water infrastructure funds, which will help to prolong the life of existing systems. Water infrastructure is a lifeline for community health and prosperity."

Sewer separation will also reduce the amount of phosphorus entering the Ottumwa Lagoon, which has been identified as impaired by algae, turbidity and chlordane. Phosphorous can cause excessive algae growth, which can impair water quality.

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.