Work on a $4 million project to construct a new wastewater treatment facility in Houston will begin Oct. 29, it was decided at a pre-construction conference last week.
McClanahan Construction of Rogersville is the general contractor for the project, which received a big boost last week with the awarding of funds to make the effort possible. The city snagged a $1.75 million grant, a $1.75 million low-interest loan and another $500,000 that will allow the community to upgrade its sewer system, including lines and lift stations.
Davis Minton with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources presented the money to the city last week. It marked the first time in the state that a Missouri community received federal stimulus funds for such a purpose – which ultimately means more attractive financing for local taxpayers. Don Romines, a Houston city councilman, estimated the federal financing saved the average household about $100 annually over a 20-year period in charges that otherwise would have been required to finance it.
City Administrator Larry Sutton said the project is slated for completion in November 2010. That projection does not include weather delays or any changes in the work required. The plant is situated just north of the extending one – in an area east of North Grand Avenue.
Also included in the price tag is purchase of a new, specialized truck used in the operation of the plant, and expenses ranging from engineering to tests. The vehicle is expected to cost about $117,000.