$85 million in grants for Kansas water projects open for applications

Kansas entities have until Dec. 29, 2023, to apply for $85 million through the State Water Plan Fund for water infrastructure projects or up-front technical assistance to address water quantity and quality issues. The funding will be delivered by the Kansas Water Office (KWO) through two separate grant funding programs. 

The Water Projects Grant Fund (WPGF) provides funding to build, repair, maintain or replace water-related infrastructure plus related construction costs. The funds can also be used for matching grant or loan applications for water-related infrastructure projects or payment toward outstanding loan balances. Here’s what applicants need to know about applying: 

• The maximum award for applications is $8 million and requires no matching funds. 
• Eligible applicants include municipalities that have adopted a water conservation plan and special water-related districts. 
• Priority will be given to projects that incorporate a conservation and/or climate change resiliency plan. 
• Projects with earlier start dates will receive priority. 
• Entities should have sufficient assurance of having obtained or will obtain pertinent permits and authorizations for projects. 
• Community factors such as public health, socioeconomic factors and ability to repay loans without grant assistance are criteria that the state will consider for awardees. 

Additionally, the Technical Assistance Grant Fund (TAGF) provides funding to plan, engineer and manage the development of water infrastructure projects. The funds can also be used for processing and loan applications for these projects. Here’s what applicants need to know about applying:

• The maximum award for applications is $1 million and requires no matching funds. 
• Priority for full grant awards will be given to municipalities with fewer than 2,000 residents. 
• Eligible applicants include municipalities that have adopted a water conservation plan and special water-related districts. 
• Priority will be given to projects incorporating a conservation and/or climate change resiliency plan. 
• Projects with earlier start dates will receive priority. 
• Community factors such as public health, socioeconomic factors and the ability to repay loans without grant assistance are criteria that the state will consider for awardees. 

Applicants may apply for these grants through the Kansas Water Office website.