Department of Natural Resources offers savings through wastewater, stormwater a…

JEFFERSON CITY, MO, DEC. 12, 2024 - The Missouri Department of Natural Resources' Financial Assistance Center will hold an informational webinar at 9:30 a.m., Jan. 15, for communities to learn about applying for below-market rate financing for capital projects through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund programs.

State Revolving Fund applications submitted by March 1 receive top priority for loan financing and grant funding.

The Clean Water SRF loan program provides low-interest financing for construction projects that improve water quality. Political subdivisions of the state may apply for financing for wastewater treatment plant and collection system improvements, sewer line extensions, combined sewer overflow corrections, system security, nonpoint source projects. Financing is also available for implementing measures to manage, reduce, treat, reuse or recapture stormwater.

The Drinking Water SRF loan program provides low-interest financing drinking water construction projects that protect public health. Political subdivisions, not-for-profit corporations that provide a regional water supply and investor-owned water utility corporations may apply for financing for a variety of projects. These can include drinking water treatment plant and distribution system improvements, storage facilities, system security, source intake structures and wells.

The department's SRF programs offer a subsidized interest rate of 70% below the market rate. The standard loan term is 20 years; however, extended terms of up to 30 years may be available.

The interest savings offered to participants and their ratepayers is substantial. For example, a recent $5 million loan saved the community more than $1.5 million in interest compared to the market rate. SRF borrowers benefit from low interest rates and also receive personalized assistance from a dedicated department project management team.

To learn more about SRF financing, join the webinar Jan. 15, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. Details can be found at dnr.mo.gov/water/what-were-doing/state-revolving-fund-srf/financial-assistance-webinars-workshops.