In recent years, Michigan communities have received a significant amount of funding to improve public health and protect the state’s water resources. Over $11.9 million in state grants has been distributed to cities, villages, and townships across the state for various projects, including water main replacements, stormwater rehabilitation, and lead service line identification.
One of the largest grant recipients is the Scottville project in Mason County, which received about $8.7 million in funding for inspecting pipes for lead and replacing water mains in the small city. The project aims to ensure that residents have access to safe drinking water while also reducing the risk of contamination from lead pipes.
In addition to this project, a significant portion of the grants will be used for stormwater infrastructure projects. These projects will help ensure that stormwater and sewage are treated effectively before being discharged back into lakes and streams. This not only protects the environment but also safeguards public health by preventing harmful bacteria from entering bodies of water.
Other grants aim to help communities plan and afford water infrastructure needs across the state. For example, Marion village received $338,000 in funding for infrastructure improvements, while Tri-County Regional Planning Commission in Clinton, Ingham, and Eaton counties received $759,000 for similar purposes. These grants can help subsidize infrastructure maintenance costs and reduce the need for expensive rate increases on residents.
Finally, four water systems were awarded grants for identifying or verifying lead service lines in preparation for replacement: Lyon Charter Township ($181,600), City of New Buffalo ($600
