The Town of Kenbridge announced updates to its ongoing water and sewer replacement project, citing the assistance of area organizations that have helped to take the project forward.

“It is a well-known fact that the Town of Kenbridge has antiquated infrastructure,” a release from the town noted. “And as time goes on, more and more repairs are necessary and funds are needed to cover all of the repairs. Over the years, the Town has been able to obtain some grants from USDA’s Rural Development (RD) program for larger water and sewer projects. While the grants are helpful, the amounts are never enough for everything that needs to be done, so the Town has obtained low interest, long-term loans from RD as well. The Town is very grateful for any assistance it can get.”

The town also noted the aid of nonprofit organization Southeast Rural Community Assistance Project (SERCAP). The organization is “part of a program called Rural Community Assistance Program that houses six regional nonprofit centers. According to their website … SERCAP’s mission is to improve the quality of life for low-income individuals by promoting affordable water and wastewater facilities, community development, environmental health and economic self-sufficiency.”

“Communities and community leaders sometimes find themselves facing difficult and complex situations,” the SERCAP website noted. “Confronted with mounting economic concerns, declining populations and limited resources, a community’s water and wastewater issues may seem insurmountable. This is when we step in. We work with town managers, mayors, town clerks, and other community leaders to determine needs, secure funding, and provide opportunities for structural and economic development. We help implement systems and processes that are sustainable for the long haul and foster economic growth. Services are available as both one time and continuing projects, as needed.”

The Town noted that SERCAP has assisted Kenbridge over the past four years with “funds for a submersible pump at the water plant, a water line for West Street, parts needed at the wastewater plant and sewer line replacement on East Sixth Avenue.”

“While these are not ‘fun’ projects and can’t be seen on a daily basis, just knowing they are there and are in working order benefits the Town’s residents.”

The town thanked SERCAP for its donations and assistance to the area.