Sewer project progressing in Mount Vernon

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MOUNT VERNON — A $3.1 million sanitary sewer replacement project is more than half completed in Mount Vernon.

City Finance Director Brenda McPeek said H&W Contracting, of Sioux Falls, is working on the sewer pipes and David VanDerPol Construction, of Harrison, is working on two new lagoons west of town.

“It’s been moving really well,” McPeek said. “They’re ahead of schedule.”

Throughout most of the construction, crews have been fortunate to have dry conditions. From Aug. 15 through the beginning of October, the area received 0.02 inches of rain.

A recent 2-inch rainfall did not slow construction. McPeek said crews were out working Monday morning.

The entire project is expected to be complete by Sept. 1, 2012.

The city received an up-to $750,000 Consolidated Water Grant through the state Board of Water and Natural Resources. The city also received a $2.3 million state revolving fund loan, $1.08 million of which will be principal forgiveness and $1.25 million of which will be paid back at 3.25 percent over 30 years.

Each sewer bill is $41.22, and a $30 surcharge is included in that bill to help pay off the loan, she said.

The city also received a $50,000 grant from the James River Water Development District board.

“We’re real pleased with how this is taken care of,” McPeek said.

Tags: our towns, mount vernon, sewer