EPA announces $3.8M to protect Northwest waterways from sewage overflows

SEATTLE – RealEstateRama – U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently announced the availability of approximately $80 million through the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program to help communities address stormwater and sewer infrastructure needs. These grants will?strengthen systems that safely capture and manage stormwater?to?help prevent contaminants, including untreated sewage,?from polluting nearby waterways.

The agency will provide funding?from both fiscal years 2025 and 2026,?totaling $3.8 million to Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington.

“These grant awards represent EPA’s commitment to clean air, land, and water for our communities in the Pacific Northwest,” said EPA Region 10 Administrator Emma Pokon.

Stormwater can be a significant source of water pollution and a public health concern.?It?can collect various pollutants,?including trash, chemicals, oils, and dirt/sediment,?and convey them to nearby waterways. When mixed with domestic and industrial wastewater in combined sewers, stormwater can also contribute to combined sewer overflows during heavy storm events.

Safely and effectively managing stormwater?to reduce pollution?before it?reaches?local waterways?is essential.?However, the cost to construct,?operate, and?maintain?stormwater infrastructure can be significant, which can strain?wastewater systems and their?customers, especially?in?small and financially distressed communities.

The agency’s Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant?program will?prioritize projects for small and/or financially distressed communities.?Under the?existing regulations, state grantees are not?required?to contribute cost shares?for projects?located?in small?and/or financially distressed communities.

Learn more: Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grants Program

Contact Information
EPA Region 10 Press Office ()