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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Amy Auth
202-225-2071

United States Rep. Virginia Foxx (N.C.-5) announced today that she has obtained $1 million for the construction of a water treatment plant for the Towns of Sparta, N.C. and Independence, Va.

“This is a tremendous project between the two towns,” said Sparta mayor John Miller. “I am thrilled to have Congresswoman Foxx’s help and support on such an important project to our communities. We are so glad to have her in office looking after us.”

Rep. Foxx sought funding because the existing Sparta and Independence water systems have wells with capacities at less than 60 percent of their original values. “Continued well development is not a good idea for long-term water supply in this region,” said Rep. Foxx. “The uncertainty of the existing water supply sources creates distress within the existing systems and adversely affects their ability to meet current and future water demands.”

Construction on the water plant would include a 1.0 MGD surface water treatment plant withdrawing from the New River approximately 46,000 LF of 12” water line, three booster pump stations, two storage tanks and related improvements. The pumping station and water treatment plant capacity would be one million gallons per day. The project would serve approximately 1,870 customers, including a residential population of about 3,500 people.

“This project is of critical importance to the infrastructure needs of Sparta and Independence,” said Patrick Woodie, Executive Director of New River Community Partners. “These are two small communities, but they realize innovative projects such as this are the key to providing a better way of life for their people. Having the federal government as a partner in their endeavors ensures their visions will be realized. I would like to thank Congresswoman Foxx for her recognition and support of this project and to her staff for working diligently to see it to fruition.”

“I am pleased that my request for critical funding was included in the Interior and Environment Appropriations Act,” said Rep. Foxx. “A water treatment plant will help create a safe, reliable, long-term water supply to serve water customers within the two towns.”

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