Funds will allow for installation of new waterline, pump stations and service metersFRANKFORT, Ky. (May 16, 2022) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced the Nicholas County Water District (NCWD) will receive a $500,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). These funds will allow for water system improvements.
The grant funding is administered by the Department for Local Government (DLG).
“Having reliable water infrastructure is crucial,” Gov. Beshear said. “When we invest in water infrastructure, we not only make life easier for Kentuckians, but we also support economic growth and development. These projects are good for our people, our economy and our future.”
The project has three major components:
• Installing 10,080 linear feet of waterline;
• Replacing four antiquated pump stations with three energy efficient pump stations; and
• Replacing 1,600 service meters.
The new waterlines will better tolerate soil conditions, making them less prone to breaks and service interruptions. The new pump stations will maintain water pressure in the rolling hills of the region while saving on utilities and operating costs. The replacement of 1,600 service meters will improve water accounting accuracy. Upon completion, upgrades will deliver better water service to 1,572 households and 28 businesses.
DLG Commissioner and Gov. Beshear’s ARC Representative Dennis Keene explained the impact this project will have.
“Thousands of Kentuckians will have improved water service as a result of this funding,” Commissioner Keene said. “This will make a difference for residents of Nicholas County for years to come.”
Upon receiving the news of the award, Nicholas County Judge/Executive Steve Hamilton stated: “Gov. Beshear and his staff are intimately aware of the needs of our community and have made every attempt to assist us with meeting those needs. We, the people of Nicholas County, are truly grateful. Ample supply of clean water is of utmost priority, and we are constantly seeking reliable sources to service our community."
“The Nicholas County Water District is extremely grateful to the Appalachian Regional Commission for the approval of a grant in the amount of $500,000 to the district,” NCWD Office Manager Monica Pryor said. “These funds will be utilized to make improvements to the distribution system including new pump stations, new service meters and replacement of a problematic water main.”
In addition to the ARC funding, the project also includes $204,000 in other federal funding, as well as $1.2 million in local funds, for a total of $1.9 million in project funding.
About the Appalachian Regional CommissionThe Appalachian Regional Commission is an economic development agency of the federal government and 13 state governments focusing on 420 counties across the Appalachian region. ARC’s mission is to innovate, partner, and invest to build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia and help the region achieve socioeconomic parity with the nation. More information is available at
www.arc.gov.
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