Governor Gregoire signed House Bill 1049 into law, approving $155 million in Public Works Trust Fund low-interest loans to finance 64 critical infrastructure projects in 54 jurisdictions statewide.

Among the local municipalities win funding is the City of Gig Harbor and the Manchester Water District.

State Representative Derek Kilmer (D-Gig Harbor) had sponsored the bill and joined Rep Pat Lantz (D-Gig Harbor) in celebrating its passage. “This influx of money will not only mean immediate construction jobs. It is a smart, long-term investment in critical infrastructure to ensure that we have a sustainable economy and a sustainable quality of life.”

The loan will help pay for upgrades to the Gig Harbor wastewater treatment plant to improve its efficiency and effectiveness. The project will include an outfall extension into Colvos Passage, and new diffuser system. The project will result in a higher quality effluent being discharged to Puget Sound.

The bill also includes $970,870 for upgrades to a wide range of the Manchester Water District system, including:

• Installation of a new flow meter at each wellhead and pump station.
• Distribution/transmission piping replacements and upgrades to the Mile Hill Road area, Yukon Harbor Drive and Southworth Drive.
• Installation of two interties in the South Street and Garfield Road area.
• Construction of two pressure-reducing stations located in the Beach Drive and Harper Hill areas.