Livingston received a state Infrastructure Grant Thursday to support long-term planning for its water and sewer systems.
Livingston Mayor Lori Burnett said the city was awarded $114,000 through the Infrastructure Planning Grant program announced by Governor Bill Lee.
“We didn’t know we were going to get it, but we applied for it,” Burnett said. “It’s a process that takes several months, and we were pleasantly surprised when it was announced.”
Burnett said Livingston plans to use the funding for a water rate study and an asset management plan to better understand and manage the city’s utility system.
“We also needed an asset management plan so we can inventory what we have and make a plan on how we’re going to continue to improve our system,” Burnett said.
The grant is part of the Rural Economic Opportunity Act, which is providing $7.4 million dollars statewide to twenty-four communities for infrastructure planning.
“This grant is very specific,” Burnett said. “There were very specific things related to water and sewer that these monies could be used for.”
Burnett said the studies are designed to help the city plan responsibly while remaining fair to customers.
“We hope to show that we are right where we need to be with our water rates,” Burnett said. “That we’re doing what we should be doing to continue improving the system and still be fair to our customers.”
Burnett said residents will see the results of the grant through greater transparency and continued system improvements.
“As the water rate study is performed, I will share that publicly,” Burnett said. “With the asset management plan, hopefully people will see fewer water leaks and fewer repairs as we’re able to make improvements.”
State officials said the Infrastructure Planning Grant program helps communities prepare for future growth by strengthening essential infrastructure. Burnett said the funding will help Livingston move forward as it manages an aging and complex water system.
“As a small municipality, we’re always needing some assistance,” Burnett said. “We’re thankful the state chose us and recognized the importance of keeping our water and sewer systems in good shape.”