City of Norwich

Amount Appropriated?

$2.9M

FFID tracks stages 1–2 — stages 3–5 vary by agency, assistance type, and earmark structure.

Project Description

Safe and reliable infrastructure benefits the public health and safety of a community. Additionally, the efficient delivery of services is a necessity in attracting families and businesses to the City of Norwich. The requested funds will be used to replace 5,760 linear feet of the water main distribution line on South Broad Street, and 640 linear feet of the water main distribution line on East Main Street, including appurtenances and service lines in the heart of the city. The cast iron distribution lines were installed in 1881 and 1885 and are at the end of their useful life (100-150 years). Several lead service pipes connect to the main water distribution line. The Center for Disease Control identifies corrosion of lead pipes as the most common source of lead in drinking water\u2014replacing these pipes will reduce the exposure to lead for everyone receiving water service.\n\nThis distribution system is undersized; inefficient; and the age of the lines pose a serious threat to public health and safety. Approximately 40%-50% of the water generated by the service is lost to leaks, creating water pressure and supply issues. More concerning is the risk of line and appurtenance failure which would be a catastrophic event and shut off water distribution service in the heart of the city. \n\nThe city is paying debt service on previous projects including a water treatment facility and a water tower totaling $8 million. A Community Project Funding award is a top priority as it will lessen the burden for taxpayers and afford additional community development projects. A low-interest loan is being sought from the United States Department of Agriculture to fund the project but reducing the amount of funds borrowed will assist in keeping the debt at an acceptable level.