Monday, January 23, 2012PIERRE, S.D. –The City of Pierre is receiving assistance from the state to fix its municipal wastewater system, which was severely damaged during the 2011 Missouri River flood. Gov. Dennis Daugaard has approved a $515,000 federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to help Pierre rehabilitate and replace wastewater collection pipes, manholes, and other wastewater system infrastructure. “Hundreds of Pierre homes and businesses suffered sewer backups last summer,” the Governor said. “The wastewater system was overrun and damaged by the flooding, and that has left those same homes and businesses susceptible to future backups. This rehabilitation project will help diminish those concerns.” The project, expected to be complete by early 2013, involves replacement or rehabilitation of 2,595 feet of sewer lines. Most of the work will be done on Missouri Avenue between Fort Street and Ree Street. CDBG is a reimbursement program, and Pierre will receive funds as work is completed. The CDBG program provides communities and counties with financial resources to address a wide range of unique development needs. Past grants have been used for improvements and construction of community buildings, water systems, and sewer systems. The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development funds the CDBG Program, and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development administers it. -30-