Cornhusker State News

U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee, has announced the advancement of more than $18 million in funding for water infrastructure projects across Nebraska. The funds are part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, which is pending consideration by the full Senate.

“Strong, reliable water infrastructure is an essential part of our daily lives. I’m proud to advance this funding for these critical projects, which will improve the lives of Nebraskans for years to come. I look forward to supporting this bill through to final passage and returning more taxpayer money back to our state,” Fischer said.

The funding includes $8.25 million allocated for improvements to the Santee Sioux Tribe’s water source. Other significant allocations are $3.2 million for repairs and upgrades at McCook’s water treatment plant and $2.3 million for construction of a retention lagoon, lift station, and sanitary sewer extensions in Greeley.

Additional projects receiving support include watershed and stream improvements in the Middle Niobrara Natural Resources District ($1.4 million), reconstruction of water and storm sewer facilities in Gothenburg ($776,000), replacement of an aging well and renovation of a sanitary water storage tank in Farwell ($696,000), construction of a new well and transmission line in Genoa ($620,000), construction of an additional lagoon cell in Shelby ($600,000), lining sewer mains in Valparaiso ($468,000), and renovation work on an existing lagoon cell with installation of a depth mark in Ong ($100,000).

These investments aim to address both immediate repair needs and long-term improvements for communities throughout Nebraska.