DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds announced Friday $38 million from the state's Water Infrastructure Fund will go to three projects across the state.
The Water Infrastructure Fund was created from the money Iowa received in the American Rescue Plan Act. The governor's office said the projects will create more than 500 jobs.
“Our goal is to build and nurture our communities by investing in infrastructure that promotes healthy and welcoming areas to live, work, and raise a family," Reynolds said. "Not only will these three grants enhance our state’s water infrastructure, but they will make significant contributions to economic development.”
The Iowa Democratic Party sent the following statement in response to Reynolds' announcement:
"How many more times will Kim Reynolds try to claim credit for funding from the American Rescue Plan? A bill she opposed and every single Republican voted against. Kim Reynolds should be thanking President Biden and Congresswoman Cindy Axne for ensuring Iowans have access to clean water. Iowa Democrats will continue to hold Kim Reynolds accountable and make sure Iowans see her for the hypocrite she is."
The grants will go to the following projects:
Dyersville
Up to $11 million will go to the Dyersville utilities project at the Field of Dreams site for water distribution and wastewater collection, which the Dyserville Chamber of Commerce had told Local 5 was a top priority.
"It's a lightning bolt into our situation," said Dan Evans, the chief operating officer of the company that runs the site. "It'll greatly enhance the experience at the Field of Dreams for tourists, visitors, future tournament participation, for people who come for the August major league game."
Des Moines
The Iowa Confluence Water Trails Project in downtown Des Moines will get up to $15 million, which Reynolds said will go to mitigating the dam on Fleur Drive.
"In addition to removing safety hazards associated with the dam, the mitigation will allow Iowans to enjoy a river run experience on the Raccoon River and lay the groundwork for a recreational destination in the area," a press release from the governor's office read.
Sioux Center
Up to $12 million will go to the expansion of the Lewis & Clark Regional Water System which serves parts of Iowa, South Dakota and Minnesota. Reynolds said the investment will allow the system to provide an additional 15 million gallons of water per day.
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