U.S. Senators from Kansas, Jerry Moran and Dr. Roger Marshall, and Kansas Congressman Ron Estes say they support the $191 million Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan awarded to the City of Wichita by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to improve water quality and create an anticipated 1,250 jobs.
Two years ago, the three members of Congress urged the EPA to approve Wichita’s application for a WIFIA loan.
The loan will be distributed to the City of Wichita and the Department of Public Works. This loan will be used to upgrade two of the city’s most critical wastewater facilities, reducing nutrient contribution to the Arkansas River and Mississippi River Basin. The project will also address local odor concerns, meet growing demand with anticipated population growth and update aging infrastructure.
“Access to clean water is critical for Kansas communities and their long-term success,” said Sen. Moran. “Improving and updating Wichita’s water system is an important investment in the future of our state. This project will create new jobs for the community and sustain future growth as the City of Wichita continues to expand.”
“I applaud the work of our Wichita city leaders and their advocacy for improvements in the wastewater treatment facility,” said Sen. Marshall. “This investment will ensure that all residents continue to have access to clean, safe drinking water. The project will improve water quality in the Arkansas River and Mississippi River Basin, building upon the city’s efforts to improve water quality across Wichita from all water and wastewater systems.”
“Clean water is essential for families, businesses and economic growth in our region, and this loan for Wichita's Biological Nutrient Removal Improvements Program will be helpful in securing water infrastructure for today and years to come,” said Rep. Estes.