WELCH, WV (WVNS) - A grant of $1,180,000 is headed for McDowell County thanks to a rural development grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The money will be used to fund Phase II of the Elkhorn Creek water project. When complete the project will improve the potable water for Kimball, Northfork and Keystone.
"The people of McDowell County and southern West Virginia helped build our nation. We owe it to them to ensure they have reliable access to basic services like clean drinking water," said Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV). "Through my role on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, I have worked to deliver solutions that will help those reliant on old coal camp water systems; and as a member of the Appropriations Committee, I have advocated for programs that fund projects like this to replace older municipal systems that are no longer dependable.
"Last year, my staff had the opportunity to tour the Keystone and Northfork water systems and discussed the Elkhorn Creek project with local leaders. A applaud the work these elected officials and professionals do for their communities every day. I am excited to see this funding come to McDowell County, and I will continue working with those folks on the ground to help advance the completion of this project."
"Clean water is essential to a healthy, thriving community. Every community deserves this access and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I have made it a priority to ensure our communities in rural West Virginia are not left behind," stated Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV). "I will continue to fight so that every corner of West Virginia has the resources to ensure every household has clean water."