Billings receives DNR loan to improve wastewater system

The city of Billings has been awarded a $688,000 loan from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to help with the planning and design work of its ongoing wastewater improvement project.

The construction project is expected to cost a total of $2.6 million and start in 2027. These funds will provide interim financing to cover initial engineering and administrative costs while the city works with the department to secure a larger funding package for the wastewater project.

According to the department, the loan will offset upfront costs at rates lower than private financing because it is offered at below-market rates. The city is expected to save $133,000 in interest during the five-year repayment plan.

“We will continue to fund upgrades to water infrastructure across Missouri to keep people healthy and preserve our water resources while keeping customers’ bills affordable,” said Kurt Schaefer, director of the Department of Natural Resources, in a news release.

The department’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund finances improvements to wastewater treatment facilities, sewer collection system rehabilitation and extensions, and combined sewer overflow corrections.

This project will be funded wholly or in part with monies received from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.