HENRY COUNTY, Va. (Romero Report) — The Henry County Public Service Authority (PSA) Board of Directors approved a funding proposal on June 18 to address inflow and infiltration issues in the Koehler sanitary sewer system.

The PSA has been awarded financial assistance from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality Clean Water Revolving Loan Fund for the improvements, a news release said.

The project involves rehabilitating 80 sewer manholes and more than 9,000 linear feet of sewer line in the Koehler system.

The total cost of the project is $3.56 million, with approximately $1.07 million eligible for principal forgiveness, the release said.

The remaining $2.49 million will be financed at a 0.5 percent interest rate over 30 years, resulting in an annual payment of $89,545.

Inflow and infiltration refer to stormwater runoff and groundwater entering sewer pipes.

Inflow comes from sources like foundation drains, while infiltration occurs through cracks, leaky pipe joints, or deteriorated manholes.

Excessive inflow and infiltration can overload the sewer system, causing overflows, backups, and other issues, according to officials.

The release said this project aims to increase the PSA’s capacity by reducing these problems.

In other matters, the board approved the write-off of uncollectible utility billing accounts for 2023, estimated at approximately $46,732 and accepted monthly reports.

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