EGLE Director Lauds Marquette's Water Infrastructure Investments

The Facts -

  • A $12.5 million loan supported upgrades to the Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Facility.
  • The facility serves various townships and treats on average 3.2 million gallons of waste per day.
  • Since 2019, Michigan has invested over $4 billion in water infrastructure, creating 15 jobs per $1 million.


Michigan Celebrates Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements Financed by EGLE's Clean Water State Revolving Fund

EGLE's (Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy) Director Phil Roos toured Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Facility, recognizing the enhancements enabled by a $12.5 million loan from EGLE’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund.

The tour was accompanied by Marquette Mayor Sally Davis, City Manager Karen Kovacs, and city commissioners, during which they discussed Michigan's commitment to providing communities with affordable drinking water and protecting state's natural resources.

“EGLE’s MI Clean Water program is pivotal in supporting projects like the upgrades to the Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Facility,” observed Roos. “These investments not only improve our infrastructure but also ensure the well-being and future of our state.”

In May 2023, Marquette received a $12.5 million federal loan with $5.87 million in principal forgiveness from EGLE’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund for upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant’s infrastructure. The project, currently underway, includes construction of a new waste-receiving station, modifications to various equipment, and improved security measures.

The plant, built in 1979, serves Marquette Township and Chocolay Township and has the capacity to produce over 7 million gallons of water per day.

Mayor Davis emphasized, “Investments in water infrastructure are crucial. We are thankful to EGLE and Michigan for these significant investments that enable us to provide safe drinking water and protect our natural resources.”

Last month, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and EGLE announced a $290 million expansion of the MI Clean Water Plan, designed to ensure safer, cleaner, and more affordable drinking water and also support local jobs. The Governor's budget recommendation included $54 million for drinking water infrastructure and $15 million for clean water projects, as well as additional personnel for EGLE.

Since January 2019, Michigan has invested more than $4 billion under the MI Clean Water Plan for upgrading water facilities across the state, creating jobs, and providing a high return on investment. For more information, visit EGLE’s MI Clean Water Plan webpage.

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