Emmett Water System

City of Emmett awarded KAN STEP grant to improve water system

The City of Emmett has been awarded a $121,173 grant by the Kansas Department of Commerce to help the city renovate its antiquated water distribution system.

The grant is provided through the Department's Kansas Small Towns Environment Program (KAN STEP), and will supplement a $110,988 contribution from Emmett. The total cost of the project is $232,161.

The funding will help Emmett overhaul an outdated water distribution system that has become unreliable and unsafe. In addition to water line breaks, which disrupt service to residents, the city's water supply has been contaminated with iron deposits from the system's cast iron pipes, making the water less than desirable. The city also has few valves that are operable.

The project will replace 4,350 linear feet of galvanized iron pipe with 2-to-4-inch PVC pipe. Upgrades will include 24 gate valves, 10 tees, reconstruction of the existing well, and connection to the upgraded well.

Design consultant for the project is BG Consultants, Manhattan. Grant administration will be provided by Governmental Assistance Services, Lawrence. The Kansas Rural Water Association will provide inspection services and on-site technical assistance.

KAN STEP is a self-help program that enables small communities to make major infrastructure improvements. Local residents volunteer labor or services - termed "sweat equity" - while the Department of Commerce provides funding for technical services and materials. The result is that small communities have an opportunity to invest in projects they otherwise could not afford.

Funding for KAN STEP initiatives is provided through the federal Community Development Block Grant program.