MOUND BAYOU, Miss. — The City of Mound Bayou has secured a $5 million loan from the State of Mississippi to upgrade its aging water system and replace deteriorating infrastructure.
According to city officials, the funding comes through the Drinking Water Systems Improvements Revolving Loan Fund. The city accepted the offer to continue improvements to its water system.
Mayor Leighton Aldridge said the 20-year loan includes principal forgiveness for the $5 million amount and will allow the city to install a new water well and replace aging water lines, beginning with major water mains.
Aldridge said the city has worked to improve its water infrastructure during his five years as mayor and called the project a significant step toward modernizing the system.
He said replacing decades-old water lines will reduce the number of water leaks and breaks that city crews routinely repair.
City officials also believe the upgrades will improve residents’ quality of life while making Mound Bayou more attractive to new businesses and industry.
According to the city, engineers are completing final work plan approvals while awaiting approval from the state. Officials said they hope construction bids can be advertised after the approval process is complete.
