Public hearing held on $1 million USDA grant for Easy Street water line replacement

Brookings staff held a public meeting to satisfy USDA Rural Development requirements for a congressionally directed $1,000,000 award toward the Easy Street water line replacement project.

Staff explained the project would replace about 2,950 linear feet of aging 6‑inch cast‑iron and asbestos‑cement pipe between Mardong Court and Fern Avenue with 12‑inch PVC main, upgrade hydrants, install touch‑read meter boxes and create a loop in the system to improve fire flow, pressure and reliability. An engineer’s estimate for the overall project is $1,663,400; staff said they expect to fund the remaining balance with water system replacement funds and water system development charges consistent with fund rules.

Design work and USDA application steps remain; staff said construction timing is uncertain while surveying and final design proceed. Staff noted the project had been a high priority on the city’s water master plan and that Chief Lee submitted a letter emphasizing fire‑flow needs with schools located along the line. No public comments were offered during the meeting portion recorded in the transcript.

Staff will continue the USDA application process and return with design and schedule details when available.