City Gets $750,000 for Wastewater Treatment

The City of Crawfordsville Wastewater Department has been awarded a $750,000 Community Development Block Grant through the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) to support critical improvements at the city’s wastewater treatment facility.

Funding will be used to replace the aging digester lids that support the anaerobic digestion process used in wastewater treatment. The existing lids are more than 30 years old and have exceeded their useful lifespan. Their deterioration has contributed to odor issues affecting the west side of the community. Replacing the lids will significantly reduce odors while also improving the efficiency of the wastewater treatment process.

Assistant Wastewater Superintendent Mike McKinney said the project will have a meaningful impact for residents and the overall operation of the treatment plant.

“This funding is a great investment in Crawfordsville’s infrastructure and quality of life,” said McKinney. “Replacing these digester lids will help us improve the efficiency of our treatment process while also addressing odor concerns that have affected nearby neighborhoods. We are extremely grateful to OCRA for recognizing the importance of this project and providing the funding to make it possible.”

McKinney also expressed appreciation to community members who participated in the grant process by attending public hearings, completing surveys, and submitting letters of support highlighting the importance of the project.

“The support from our residents played a key role in helping us demonstrate the impact this project will have on our community,” McKinney said. “We truly appreciate everyone who took the time to share their input.”

This project was made possible through the collaborative efforts of city leadership, staff, and community partners who assisted with planning, public engagement, and preparation of the grant application.

McKinney also recognized Michael Kleinpeter, President and Grant Administrator of Kleinpeter Consulting Group LLC, for his guidance throughout the grant application process.

“Mike’s expertise and assistance throughout the grant process were incredibly valuable,” McKinney said. “We appreciate his support in helping bring this project to fruition.”

Once completed, the improvements will enhance wastewater treatment operations while helping improve environmental conditions and quality of life for residents in Crawfordsville.