HARPERSFIELD TOWNSHIP – The Ashtabula County commissioners and representatives of the Ashtabula County Department of Environmental Services gathered at the intersection of Brandt and South River roads in Harpersfield Township on Tuesday, April 14, to mark the South River Road Phase II Waterline project.
The South River Road Phase II Waterline project is moving forward, marking a significant investment in regional infrastructure and environmental improvements, officials said in a press release.
This phase includes work along Brandt Road and a portion of Atkins Road, near Virant Family Winery, and with expansion into Lake County near Debonné Vineyards.
The total estimated cost of the project is $1,415,710.
Funding support has been made possible through a combination of state and federal resources. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) has provided substantial assistance through $1,000,000 in loan principal forgiveness, along with zero-percent financing.
Additional funding to help cover the remaining balance will come from Federal Congressional Direct Spending Funds, according to the press release.
This project reflects a strong collaborative effort among multiple partners committed to improving infrastructure and protecting environmental quality in the region.
“We are grateful for the support and partnership that made this project possible,” said Ashtabula County Board of Commissioners President Casey Kozlowski.
Commissioner Kathryn Whittington, vice president of the Board, added, “It’s great to see this project moving forward and delivering meaningful improvements to our community.”
Commissioner J.P. Ducro IV also expressed his support, noting he is “thrilled to see the collaboration and connection into Lake County providing additional protection and redundancy.”
Officials extended special thanks to U.S. Congressman Dave Joyce, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, Harpersfield Township Trustees, Lake County Commissioners, Lake County Utilities, Verdantas LLC, Rudzik Excavating, Inc. and the dedicated staff at Ashtabula County
Environmental Services for their vital roles in bringing this project to fruition.
ACDES Director Doug Starkey praised the collective efforts of everyone involved – from federal agencies to local entities – for their tireless work in bringing this phase of the project to fruition.
The South River Road Phase II project represents a continued commitment to infrastructure reliability, environmental stewardship and regional collaboration.
“A lot of economic activity is generated in this part of Ashtabula County – obviously a lot of wineries. We’ve got the micro-distillery here – and then, of course, many residents. Many will be served as a result of this waterline expansion, and we hope it leads to further economic activity as a result of this important infrastructure investment,” Kozlowski said.
