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News Release RI Department of Environmental Management 235 Promenade Street, Providence, RI 02908 (401) 222-2771 TDD/(401) 222-4462
DEM SEEKING MUNICIPAL PROPOSALS FOR INNOVATIVE WASTEWATER AND STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PROJECTS IN BLACKSTONE RIVER WATERSHED PROVIDENCE - The Rhode Island Department of Environment, on behalf of a broad partnership, has invited Rhode Island communities in the Blackstone River watershed to submit proposals for demonstration projects that address innovative wastewater and stormwater management in the watershed. Eligible communities are Burrillville, Glocester, Cumberland, Lincoln, North Smithfield, Woonsocket, Smithfield, Pawtucket, and Central Falls. Pre-proposals are due by December 17.Successful projects should demonstrate how innovative wastewater treatment technologies and creative stormwater best management practices can be used to mitigate water quality contamination and improve the infrastructure needed to encourage additional appropriate development within existing or proposed villages in the Blackstone River watershed. Preference will be given to projects that demonstrate the mutually beneficial links between water resource management and smart growth. They should aim toward reducing sprawl, preserving town character, and encouraging economic growth. A total of $1.35 million is available for the projects to Blackstone River watershed communities in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts from a grant DEM has received from the US Environmental Protection Agency. The funds will be evenly allocated in both states, and require a 25 percent local match. DEM's Sustainable Watersheds Office applied for and received the grant on behalf of a broad partnership, including the John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor Commission, the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game, the University of Rhode Island, the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, the Massachusetts Audubon Society, and the American Heritage Rivers Program. For more information, contact Fred Presley in DEM's Sustainable Watersheds Office at 222-3434 ext. 4417 or via email at fred.presley@dem.ri.gov. Massachusetts communities in the Blackstone River watershed should contact Russ Cohen at the Massachusetts Riverways Program at 617-626-1543 or via e-mail at russ.cohen@state.ma.us to apply for funding in that state. -30- |
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