McPherson BPU Secures $2 Million in Federal Funding for Water Project
Congressionally directed spending offsets cost increases on the South Well Field Project and protects ratepayers
MCPHERSON, Kan. — The McPherson Board of Public Utilities has secured $2 million in federal funding through Congressionally Directed Spending to help cover rising costs on its South Well Field Project. The funding was approved through H.R. 6938, signed into law by President Donald J. Trump on Jan. 23. U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran championed the request on behalf of McPherson and surrounding communities.
The South Well Field Project is a long-term water infrastructure investment serving McPherson, the City of Windom and three rural water districts. It includes three new public water supply wells in the Equus Beds Region of the High Plains Aquifer, a 20-mile water transmission pipeline and a new water treatment facility. The need for the project stems from the establishment of an Intensive Groundwater Use Control Area around McPherson in 1980 due to declining aquifer levels. Current water demand has approached or exceeded the region's safe yield, and projections indicate continued growth through 2040.
The project was originally financed through $27.6 million in revenue bonds but experienced a $6 million cost increase due to inflation and supply chain disruptions. BPU secured partial assistance through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, but a significant funding gap remained. Without federal support, BPU said it would have been required to deplete its long-range reserve fund, delaying other infrastructure projects including a new water tower and distribution system improvements. The $2 million reduces that financial burden and protects ratepayers.
"This project represents one of the most important water infrastructure investments in McPherson's history," said Josh Bedel, general manager. "We are grateful to Senator Moran and to President Trump for recognizing the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for rural Kansas communities." Construction on the project began in 2020 and was completed in 2024.
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