By Allison Peck
McCOOK, Neb. — The City of McCook will receive $5 million in state-backed financial assistance to replace lead water service lines, a project state officials estimate will save local taxpayers $10 million compared with private financing.
Gov. Jim Pillen announced the investment Thursday, October 15, alongside McCook Mayor Linda Taylor and Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment Director Jesse Bradley.
The funding comes through Nebraska’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, which helps communities finance drinking water infrastructure improvements. The $5 million package will include 60% loan forgiveness, with the remaining funding provided through a zero-interest loan.
State officials estimate the arrangement will save McCook taxpayers $10 million compared with private financing options.
The project is intended to remove lead service lines and improve the safety of the community’s drinking water while helping McCook prepare for upcoming federal requirements for lead pipe replacement.
Lead service lines can introduce lead into drinking water, potentially posing health risks, particularly for children and pregnant women. Replacing the lines helps reduce that risk and protects the long-term quality of the community’s water supply.
Pillen said the investment demonstrates how partnerships between state and local governments can reduce infrastructure costs while ensuring Nebraskans have access to safe drinking water.
McCook has previously used state revolving fund assistance for drinking water and wastewater treatment plant projects, as well as drinking water main improvements throughout the community.
The state says its Drinking Water and Clean Water State Revolving Fund programs have provided more than $1.75 billion in assistance through 713 loans to 326 Nebraska communities since the programs began.
The Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment expects to fund approximately 40 additional projects totaling about $220 million over the next two years.
The state announcement did not specify how many lead service lines will be replaced in McCook or when construction is expected to begin.