FOLLANSBEE, W.Va. — Follansbee is receiving more than $300,000 in additional federal funding to support a major water infrastructure project planned for the city’s downtown area.
The city has been awarded an additional $312,000 from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to help fund its ongoing “219 Project,” which focuses on improvements to Follansbee’s downtown water system.
City officials received notification of the additional funding last week.
Mayor Scott McMahon said the money will provide the city with added financial protection if construction expenses exceed initial estimates. While the project already includes funding set aside for typical contingencies, the additional federal money could help cover further cost overruns without requiring the city to take on those unexpected expenses.
The funding comes as Follansbee continues seeking outside financial assistance to improve its aging water infrastructure.
According to McMahon, city officials are also looking at upgrades to several components of the water system, including valves, filters and pumps.
The city hopes to begin work on the improvements as early as next month.
Officials have continued pursuing state and federal funding opportunities as Follansbee works to address infrastructure needs while limiting the financial burden placed on the city and its water customers.
