Washington D.C. — Today, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell (AL-07) announced that the University of Alabama has been awarded $5,150,072 to improve wastewater conditions in Alabama’s Black Belt. This funding, which was awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development, will be used to provide both technical assistance and construction in 15 Black Belt counties.

“Access to adequate wastewater infrastructure is a basic human right and one that too many of my constituents have been forced to go without,” said Rep. Sewell. “This grant represents critical progress in our continued fight for equitable and safe wastewater systems, and I know it will make a big difference for those living in the Black Belt.”

The University of Alabama will use this funding to develop a needs assessment and execute an outreach and education program for Black Belt residents. The project will allow for the installation and management of 50 onsite wastewater treatment systems for households which will be operated for 20-30 years at no cost to the homeowner. The project will also involve weekly surface water testing, an evaluation of septage management options, and a review of state law and regulations for recommended changes.