The State of Tennessee is investing $2.8 million into LaFollette's water infrastructure to improve aging systems and ensure reliable water service. Governor Bill Lee and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) announced the funding, provided through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Loan Program. The loan, with a 1.32 percent interest rate over 20 years, will help extend waterlines and build a new booster pump station. Additionally, LaFollette will have $1,437,500 of the debt forgiven.
According to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation release, Gov. Lee emphasized the importance of these investments, saying, "Tennessee continues to support infrastructure investments for a growing state, including water quality improvements." TDEC Commissioner David Salyers added, "Quality water infrastructure is a basic need for a community, and we are pleased to announce these low-interest loans to meet that necessity."
This loan is part of a broader effort by the Tennessee Local Development Authority, which also issued a $1.1 million loan to the Perryville Utility District. In total, Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation plans to allocate more than $42 million for drinking water projects and over $75 million for clean water initiatives in fiscal year 2024, contributing to a combined total of over $139 million. Since 1987, Tennessee’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund has provided over $2 billion in low-interest loans, with the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund contributing over $300 million since 1996.
