Rural Infrastructure Authority Awards Construction Grants to Upgrade Critical Infrastructure

The S.C. Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA) has approved over $29 million in grant assistance for 22 capital improvement projects that will address critical water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure needs in 16 counties. 

These improvements will benefit over 50,000 households and businesses by improving public health and water quality, as well as strengthening the services needed to support economic growth. In addition, RIA has selected two communities to participate in a new program for small and rural utilities designed to combine technical assistance with opportunities for future grant funding. 

“We are proud to partner with local communities to build and maintain strong utility systems,” RIA Executive Director Bonnie Ammons said. “These targeted investments provide the support needed to improve quality of life and facilitate economic opportunities across the state.”  

Funded improvements include upgrades of aging or undersized water mains, rehabilitation or replacement of aging wastewater lines, improvements to wastewater pump stations and treatment plants, and enhancements or expansions of stormwater drains and culverts. 

Several of the projects will directly address health and environmental requirements. Many will upgrade or replace infrastructure that is undersized or deteriorating due to age, ensuring continued reliable service and increased capacity to accommodate growing communities. Four grants will directly support economic efforts by upgrading wastewater lines and treatment facilities that serve residents, businesses and industries. 

RIA collaborates with local communities and other partners to maximize the impact of state grant dollars. The RIA grant awards will be combined with more than $35 million in local and other funds to carry out the proposed water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure projects. 

RIA grants are generally awarded twice a year through a competitive process that considers the need for improved public health, environmental protection, community sustainability and economic opportunities. 

Applications are selected by the RIA board based on criteria that includes severity of the problem, expected impact and project feasibility. Recipients share the cost of infrastructure projects by paying for non-construction or other activities and, oftentimes, providing additional funds for construction.