The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has awarded $1.5 million in financial assistance to the city of Moberly for upgrades to its wastewater treatment collection system.

The funding will cover the entire cost of the project, which is expected to be completed by September 2025. The completed project is expected to provide wastewater collection service to residents along Sparks Avenue, as well as extend the wastewater system’s life and efficiency.

Project funding consists of a $1.1 million loan and a $422,052 grant through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. The financial assistance is estimated to save the city’s ratepayers $422,052 in principal and approximately $384,000 in interest over the loan’s 20-year term.

The Clean Water State Revolving Fund finances improvements to wastewater treatment facilities, sewer collection system rehabilitation and extensions, and combined sewer overflow corrections. The fund also finances upgrades in treatment system security, efficiency and conservation. Communities that borrow from the fund benefit from the below-market interest rate and from assistance provided throughout their project from a department project manager.

The department is committed to assisting Missouri communities with water and wastewater infrastructure improvement projects. Through its Financial Assistance Center, the department provides funding opportunities for qualified communities with water quality, wastewater and drinking water infrastructure needs. This project will be funded wholly or in part with monies received from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.