Independence, OR — The city of Independence has been awarded a $440,318 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) as part of the 2023 Disaster Supplemental Funding program. This significant investment will support critical planning and preliminary design work for a new water treatment plant, ensuring a sustainable water supply for the community for decades to come while enhancing the region’s infrastructure resilience.
The project includes a feasibility study, preliminary design, and wetland delineation fieldwork for a new raw water intake facility and its associated treatment processes. With a total project cost of $550,398, this effort is poised to provide the data and groundwork necessary to develop infrastructure that supports economic development, business retention, and population growth in Polk County and beyond.
“This grant represents a vital step forward in ensuring Independence has the resources to reliably supply water to our growing community for generations,” said City Manager Kenna West, JD. “By investing in resilient infrastructure, we are not only safeguarding our resources but also laying the foundation for economic growth and sustainability in our region.”
The investment aligns with the EDA’s mission to promote regional economic revitalization and resiliency in the wake of natural disasters. Once completed, the project is expected to diversify the local economic base, attract new businesses, and strengthen the community’s ability to recover from and adapt to future challenges.
The EDA’s grant process is highly competitive, with funding awarded based on project merit, applicant eligibility, and the availability of funds. For more information about the EDA and its programs, visit: https://www.eda.gov/
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