State issues $6.6M in funding to Aurora

The city of Aurora has been selected for $6.6 million in funding from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

The funding will go toward wastewater treatment system improvements in the southwest Missouri city, which is around 30 miles from Springfield. The funding consists of a $4.6 million low-interest loan and a $2 million grant through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund, according to a news release.

“Missouri communities must have reliable, up-to-date infrastructure if they are to grow and thrive,” Gov. Mike Parson said in the release. “Maintenance and updates to systems like those that treat drinking water and wastewater can be very expensive, but we are committed to being good partners with our local communities to help ensure they succeed.”

The funding is expected to cover the Aurora project's entire cost, and the estimated completion date is June 2026. The funding is projected to save Aurora ratepayers $2 million in principal and $1.6 million in interest over the loan's 20-year term.