SAN BENITO, TX, May 3, 2007 -- Ground was broken today on a new water treatment plant for the city of San Benito, Texas, which in its initial phase will have a treatment capacity of six million gallons a day (mgd) and is being financed in part with funding from the North American Development Bank (NADB). The ceremony to kick off construction was presided over by NADB Managing Director Jorge C. Garcés and San Benito Mayor Joe H. Hernandez, as well as other local authorities.
The treatment plant is one of three components of the city's US$32.44 million Water and Wastewater Improvement Project that also includes construction of a water storage tank and a new wastewater treatment plant.
NADB is providing an US$8 million loan through its Low Interest Rate Lending Facility (LIRF) and a US$17.9 million grant from its Border Environment Infrastructure Fund (BEIF), which is funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
"The groundbreaking for construction of our new water treatment plant is an historic occasion for the City. This new facility will replace an 81-year old treatment plant, and more significantly, prepare us for the anticipated growth and improved quality of life that we foresee in this border community," Mayor Hernandez stated. "I must acknowledge the tremendous support and guidance from the North American Development Bank and the Border Environment Cooperation Commission that granted us 57 percent funding for our $32 million Water/Wastewater Improvement Project. Without these agencies, this day probably could not have occurred."
To date, the 1-million gallon, elevated water storage tank has been completed and the wastewater treatment plant is about to be completed.
For his part, Mr. Garcés commented that "within a few months, the residents of San Benito will have access to better water and wastewater services and at the same time, can be assured that in the future, thanks to the implementation of this project, they will have a healthier environment for themselves and their families."
With this project San Benito will have sufficient water treatment and storage capacity to meet demand and comply with Texas state regulations through 2025. In addition, the effluent produced by the wastewater treatment plant will meet established standards of quality.
To date, NADB is participating in 101 projects along the U.S.-Mexico border with a total of US$865.7 million in financing: US$596.4 million in grants and US$269.3 million in loans.
The North American Development Bank is a financial institution established and capitalized in equal parts by the United States and Mexico for the purpose of financing environmental infrastructure projects along their common border. As a pioneer institution in its field, the Bank is working to develop integrated, sustainable and fiscally responsible projects with broad community support in a framework of close cooperation and coordination between Mexico and the United States.
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Also see:
-- "BECC-NADB Board approves water projects on US, Mexico border"
-- "NADB assists on funding of $10.5 million wastewater plant for Texas town"
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