WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Congressman Hal Rogers (KY-05), Dean of the U.S. House of Representatives, announced today the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) will award $1,400,000 to the Wolfe County Sanitation District, $1,275,396 to the City of Beattyville, $1,219,000 to the Letcher County Water and Sewer District, and $984,000 for the Breathitt County Water District for several improvements to their water infrastructure.

The Wolfe County Sanitation District plans to use this competitive federal funding to construct a new wastewater treatment plant and install 11,100 linear feet of sewer line, providing sewer service to households and businesses in the community. The City of Beattyville will utilize its federal grant to rehabilitate three water tanks that will help deliver safe drinking water to Beattyville residents. The Letcher County Water and Sewer District plans to use the federal funding for expanding service to over 220 homes that are currently unserved. The Breathitt County Water District will use the federal funds for improvements to the water infrastructure and to extend new water service in the area.

This federal funding is made possible through an ARC program, established by Senator McConnell, for water and other infrastructure priorities in distressed counties throughout Central Appalachia. Senator McConnell, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, contacted ARC Chairwoman Gayle Manchin in support of these competitive grant applications and advocated for ARC funding in the annual government funding bill.

“Investing in our water infrastructure can have a tremendous impact on families living in Kentucky’s rural communities, improving quality of life standards for thousands and paving the way for future growth,” said Senator McConnell. “I’m proud to see the Appalachian Regional Commission continue to deliver for the people of Kentucky. Congressman Rogers and I are committed to delivering for Eastern Kentuckians and ensuring the federal government continues to prioritize this wonderful region of the Commonwealth.”

“Every day, we rely on the water and sewer lines in our homes and businesses, and when those necessities are disrupted, we can’t get them repaired fast enough. These ARC investments in Breathitt, Lee, Letcher and Wolfe Counties will go a long way to provide security and reliability for these vital utility services in the region,” said Congressman Rogers. “Having access to clean water and secure wastewater service is also key for future business development and expansion. Senator McConnell and I have been long-time supporters of the Appalachian Regional Commission, because of the unwavering support they give to Kentucky’s Appalachian communities.”