U.S. Representative Terry Sewell (AL-07) announced Thursday that the University of Alabama has been awarded $5,150,072 to improve wastewater conditions in Alabama's Black Belt region. The funding, awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development, will be used to provide both technical assistance and construction in 15 black belt counties.
“Access to adequate wastewater infrastructure is a basic human right, and too many constituents have been forced to live without it,” said Congressman Sewell. “This grant represents an important step forward in our ongoing fight for an equitable and safe wastewater system, and I know it will make a huge difference for people living in the Black Belt.”
The University of Alabama will use the funding to develop a needs assessment and implement support and education programs for Black Belt residents. The project will enable the installation and management of 50 on-site wastewater treatment systems for households, free to homeowners to operate for their 20-30 years. The project also includes weekly surface water testing, evaluation of sludge management options, and review of state laws and regulations for recommended changes.
