LEESVILLE, La. (AP) - The City of Leesville is getting nearly $16.2 million to help make improvements to its water system.
USDA Rural Development will provide a loan of $11.3 million and a grant of $3.7 million, while the state Department of Health and Hospitals will provide funding through principle forgiveness in the amount of $1.1 million.
The city currently has up to 30 water leaks at any time, which results into a loss of about $30,000 every month. The improvements will include replacing many distribution mains, replacing old hydrants and installing new generators and new storage tanks.
Mayor Robert Rose says the funding allows the city to no longer simply patch a failing system. Officials say the improvements will also ensure an emergency water supply for Fort Polk.
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