Brady PieperA Michigan city is pursuing grant and loan funding for upgrades to water distribution, delivery and treatment systems.
The City of Jackson is unveiling an initial project planning document to outline the city’s current and future water infrastructure initiatives. Presented during a Jackson City Council meeting, the planning document will kickstart a nearly $46 million overhaul of Jackson’s aging water infrastructure.
The project planning document comes as the city prepares an application for the Michigan Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF), which delivers grants and loans for local water system upgrades and improvements. Jackson officials anticipate a loan award from the fund that will have to be repaid over 20 years.
City officials will also pursue grants from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to improve Jackson’s water system and offset the costs of loans.
The state and federal funding would support the city’s planned water infrastructure projects, which include replacing outdated iron water mains, replacing lead service lines throughout the city and modernizing the water treatment plant.
Jackson’s proposed water projects feature the replacement of an estimated 11,600 linear feet of cast iron water mains and 2,000 existing lead service lines. The effort is in response to a federal mandate requiring all lead service lines be replaced over the next 10 years.
Lead, a harmful neurotoxin, often enters drinking water through plumbing systems that have corroded. Lead-contaminated water poses a risk to children and adults, especially those in homes built before 1986.
Jackson’s water treatment plant is also featured in the initial project planning document. The plant is poised for several major improvements, including new filtered water pipes and valves, a replacement for High Service Pump No. 3, electrical and cybersecurity upgrades, new chemical feed systems and a refurbished ground storage tank roof.
While Jackson’s DWSRF application is in the beginning stages, the city is slated to upgrade significant portions of the water system over five years. City officials expect to receive final word on the DWSRF application in late 2025.
If the funding is approved, Jackson’s average water customer would be assessed a $19.70 increase in 2026 and about a $15 increase in 2027.
Cities and counties across Michigan are preparing water upgrade plans and capital improvement projects for the upcoming fiscal year—many of which are requesting funds from the DWSRF. Recently, the Big Rapids City Commission approved a six-year capital improvement plan with more than $12.4 million in projects in year one.
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