With help from a federal grant and some local contributions, the town of Gordo will invest more than $160,000 to enhance wastewater treatment in the area.
The Delta Regional Authority has partnered with the U.S. Economic Development Administration to give the Pickens County town $136,695 for the project. The town itself will contribute an additional $24,122, bringing the total investment to $160,817.
The money will be spent to increase the efficiency of the town’s struggling sewer system, preventing a failure that would disrupt business and adversely affect 1,750 residents, according to a news release from the Delta Regional Authority.
“Basic, reliable infrastructure like wastewater treatment is critical not only for the health and safety of residents but also to help a town move forward economically,” Gov. Kay Ivey said in the release. “I greatly appreciate the Delta Regional Authority and Economic Development Administration for helping Gordo complete this important project which will improve quality of life for the town’s residents and businesses.
U.S. Sen. Richard Shelby echoed those sentiments, saying the project would be a boon for all involved.
“Advancing Alabama’s infrastructure is key to increase economic activity in the state,” Shelby said. “The Delta Regional Authority award will allow Gordo to repair and improve the town’s wastewater infrastructure system. This strategic investment is great news for the community and will benefit the region.”
U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell, who represents Pickens County in the U.S. House of Representatives, also praised the investment.
“Every family deserves access to clean, safe and reliable water infrastructure,” Sewell said. “The Delta Regional Authority’s investment in Gordo puts that principle into action by bringing needed upgrades to the town’s sewer system. This project is going to have an immediate, positive impact for Gordo’s families and businesses.”
Peter Kinder, the alternate federal co-chairman of the Delta Regional Authority, thanked the Economic Development Administration for the grant, saying it highlights their core mission of investing in infrastructure improvements that will improve quality of life in rural areas.