Proposed EPA Funded Projects
EPA Seeks Input on Federal Funding for Drinking Water Projects in the District of Columbia
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is soliciting your review and comment on the District of Columbia’s Federal Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 and FY 2022 draft Intended Use Plan and drinking water improvements draft Project Priority List. The funding for the proposed projects, identified in these documents, is provided under the authority of the Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1996 which assist public drinking water systems in updating and improving their infrastructure. These funds will be awarded to the District of Columbia as grants. The draft Project Priority List presents a long-term strategy, while the draft Intended Use Plan focuses on how funds will be expended during the FY 2021 and FY 2022 periods.
To ensure the best use of federal funds, proposed drinking water infrastructure projects are evaluated and ranked using a Project Priority Rating System developed jointly by EPA, the District of Columbia Department of Energy & Environment, and DC Water also known as the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority. Projects are rated on their contribution to public health, compliance with regulatory standards, and maintaining drinking water reliability, safety, and environmental protection.
Page two of the draft Intended Use Plan identifies a priority listing of all projects expected to be undertaken in this two-year period. Since anticipated federal grant funds are less than the total project needs, federal funds will only be directed to some of these candidate projects. Identified projects, even if not receiving federal assistance, may be constructed using local funds.
EPA is seeking your input on the draft documents during a 30-day public comment period. A formal public hearing will be held if significant concerns are expressed. Comments should be submitted by May 22, 2021 to Mr. Kenneth Pantuck via email at pantuck.kenneth@epa.gov or in writing at:
Mr. Kenneth Pantuck
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region III
Water Division (3WD32)
State Assistance & Partnerships Branch
Infrastructure and Assistance Section
1650 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103-2029
In addition, this announcement and the draft documents will be posted on the EPA Region III and DC Water websites for increased distribution and opportunity for public comment.
Please feel free to contact Mr. Pantuck at (215) 814-5769 or at pantuck.kenneth@epa.gov if you have any questions regarding this solicitation.
