Ohio EPA Awards $2.7M to Boost Drinking Water Safety Across 58 Counties
Newark Among Recipients as State Invests in Clean Water Initiatives
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has allocated $2.7 million in grants to 58 counties, aiming to enhance drinking water safety for 116 public water systems. The funding will support critical projects, from safeguarding water sources to sealing abandoned wells, ensuring communities have access to clean, reliable water.
Ohio EPA Director-Designate John Logue emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “This funding bridges the gap for communities struggling to complete essential water projects. It’s about delivering safe drinking water to Ohioans who need it most.”
Newark Leads with River Protection Efforts
Among the recipients, Newark secured $39,000 to protect the North Fork of the Licking River. The funds will go toward spill prevention materials, public education campaigns, and updating online resources to keep residents informed about water safety.
Brandon Fox, Newark’s Water Administrator, praised the program, saying, “These grants make a real difference for cities like ours. Without this support, smaller but vital projects wouldn’t get off the ground. Newark has benefited multiple times, helping us maintain top-tier water quality.”
Statewide Impact
The grants target a mix of urban and rural systems, addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges. Projects include:
- Source water protection – Preventing contamination before it reaches treatment plants.
- Abandoned well closures – Eliminating hazards that could pollute groundwater.
- Public outreach – Educating communities on conservation and contamination risks.
A full list of awardees is available in the Ohio EPA’s official release.
Why It Matters
Safe drinking water remains a pressing issue nationwide, with aging infrastructure and pollution threatening supplies. Ohio’s proactive funding model ensures even smaller communities can tackle these challenges head-on.
As Newark and other towns put these funds to work, residents can expect cleaner water and stronger safeguards against future risks.
— Reported by Nexio News
