Macon County expands water supply with over $3.3 million in federal funds
August 29, 2008, LAFAYETTE – A $2.71 million loan and $600,000 in grants from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development will enable Macon County to expand its water supply, U.S. Rep. Bart Gordon announced.
“Middle Tennessee has suffered from drought conditions for two years now. These conditions have severely affected the supply and quality of water that families, farmers and businesses use,” Gordon said. “Available, safe and clean water is a basic necessity, not only for households but for existing business and economic recruitment.”
The City of Lafayette will use the funds to expand its water supply by installing 6.5 miles of water line that will connect it to the City of Hartsville’s system.
“I think this is the most important project we’ll do in 30 years,” Mayor James Carter said.
In the 2007, the City of Lafayette was forced to curtail the supply of treated water to its customers due to reductions in the raw water supply.
“There are still a lot of people in Macon County who don’t have good water. Getting good water to all Macon County residents is a challenge, but a major priority for me,” Gordon said. “Ultimately, the utility districts choose where to run the water lines, and I will continue working to get funds to support their efforts.”
