Federal Funds May Soon Boost Water Infrastructure in Central Minnesota Cities

(KNSI) – Congressman Tom Emmer is touting federal funds that could be coming to a handful of central Minnesota cities to help with water infrastructure projects.

This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for 2025. The legislation included help for eight communities, including Big Lake, Foley and Gilman.

Big Lake could get $2 million to help complete a $47 million expansion of its wastewater treatment facility. The plant will help with future growth in the city and aging infrastructure issues.

Foley is in line to get $2 million to ease the burden of a $13.3 million is new water treatment plant, a new water storage tank, and a water supply well. Work will include new necessary piping, treatment, and pumping systems. The water treatment plant will remove iron and manganese from the city’s existing Well 5 and help drill a sixth well.

Gilman is looking at a possible $2 million payday to assist with the bills for $12.7 million in water quality improvements. Gilman has elevated health and safety risks for residents due to a wastewater system needing repair. Work includes replacing portions of the wastewater collection system and extending the system to provide service for several new users. There are also plans to improve the wastewater pond, stormwater, and flood control.

The Senate continues to work through its appropriations process. Their version needs to be passed, and the two bills would then go to committee before coming up for a final vote. If the president signs them, the project funding will be finalized.

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