Haverhill Eligible for Low Interest Loan for Sewer Work

Two critical projects in the city of Haverhill have qualified to receive two percent loans through the State’s Revolving Fund (SRF), according to Representative Brian S. Dempsey, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman.

Dempsey announced the projects eligible for $6.9 million in low interest financing will address important sewer and water infrastructure needs within the city. Included, is a sewer rehab program that is also eligible to receive principal loan forgiveness, through the state’s Environmental Justice Community qualification.

“The Clean Water State Revolving Fund programs will provide the necessary improvements for deteriorating drinking water and sewer infrastructure. The effective programs will lower energy consumption and bring forth greater efficiencies,” Dempsey said.

During 2014, the Haverhill City Council approved $12.1 million dollars in borrowing for Phase Two of the federally-mandated combined sewer overflow (CSO) upgrades at the city wastewater treatment plant, and sewer infrastructure for added capacity to treat storm water runoff. Heavy rain conditions can cause the storm runoff, along with untreated sewage, to be discharged directly into the Merrimack River,

Massachusetts awards infrastructure financing under the State Revolving Fund, which is administered by the Massachusetts Water Pollution Abatement Trust –a joint effort of Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the Executive Office of Administration and Finance and the State Treasurer’s Office. The Clean Water SRF supports the engineering, design and construction of drinking water facilities and systems that protect public health and strengthen compliance with state and federal drinking water requirements.

Other members of Haverhill’s Beacon Hill delegation joined with Dempsey in announcing the loan eligibility.

“Improving water quality is essential in providing a healthy environment and efficient water services for all residents. This will allow the City of Haverhill the ability to make necessary infrastructure improvements,” said State Senator Kathleen O’Connor Ives.

“These loans come at a critical time for many communities, especially the City of Haverhill,” said Representative Linda Dean Campbell.  “There are few concerns more important to our citizens than clean water and these loans are a critical step to ensure that our water infrastructure is maintained and preserved.”

“I join my fellow colleagues in the Haverhill legislative delegation in expressing our delight about the announcement of these awards to fund wastewater and drinking water infrastructure projects,” said State Representative Diana Dizoglio. “The loans will have an immensely positive impact in improving water quality, while also cutting energy costs.”