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Benton Township is receiving a state grant of nearly $20 million for a water project.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy announced this week it’s awarding $64 million in Drinking Water State Revolving Fund grants around the state as part of the MI Clean Water Plan, and Benton Township is receiving the single largest grant, of $19.9 million.
The funds will be used for the construction of two new water towers, filter capacity improvements at the water treatment plant, new water main construction, service line verification, and lead service line replacements around the township.
EGLE and Benton Township tell us two new elevated storage tanks will be constructed along Zoschke Road and on Euclid Avenue. Around 900 feet of 16-inch water main will be constructed along Fair Avenue from Territorial Road to Edgecumbe Avenue. Also, about 1,600 feet of 12-inch water main will be constructed along East Nickerson Avenue and Nickerson Court from M-139 to Plaza Drive. Finally, 150 lead service lines will be replaced throughout the township.
EGLE says the grants announced Friday will help the affected communities upgrade aging infrastructure, ensure healthy drinking water, and protect Michigan’s environment.
In addition to Benton Township, the village of Lawrence is receiving a grant of $432,000 to identify lead water service lines.