Commerce Announces First Regional Water Project for Rural Kansas

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Commerce announced today a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) award for the first regional water project in over a decade. This project will provide improved water access to residents in Coffeyville and Caney.

The total cost of the project is $7,894,325, with a $1 million grant from the CDBG program. Additional funding is being provided by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE).

“This vital and groundbreaking partnership will significantly improve water infrastructure and ensure reliable access to clean water for residents in Caney and Coffeyville, exemplifying the tremendous value of regional collaboration,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “These efforts directly support the Kansas Water Plan’s goals of addressing water quantity and quality issues, investing in infrastructure and protecting our water sources for generations to come.”

This regional water project represents a significant investment in the infrastructure of these communities, ensuring reliable and sustainable water resources long into the future.

“This project represents a major milestone for our communities, enhancing the quality of life for our residents and fostering economic development,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “Kansas communities deserve access to clean water, and this regional solution and approach is going to provide residents with the long-lasting benefits.”

The innovative project involves the regionalization of water resources, identified as a recommendation after thorough consideration. The plan is for the City of Caney to purchase water from the City of Coffeyville and deliver it to Caney by installing 14 miles of piping. The pipeline will extend from Caney’s elevated water storage located at 400 N. Fawn, along HWY 166 to Cline Road in Coffeyville, where it will connect to Coffeyville’s 12” water main.

To learn more about the Community Development Block Grant program, visit here.