The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $477,000 to Mason City, Iowa, for improvements to the city's existing sanitary sewer collection system.

EPA Region 7 Administrator John Askew said, "EPA is proud to award Mason City these water infrastructure funds, which will help to prolong the life of its existing system."

Approximately 1,300 ft of pipe and one manhole will be replaced; 3,500 ft of pipe will be lined; 40 point repairs will be made; and four areas of storm sewers will be reconstructed. The improvements to the existing collection system will reduce infiltration and inflow. This will result in a reduction in peak flows to the city's wastewater treatment facility, creating more water capacity at the facility for future growth.

Source: U.S. EPA