Wicomico County Secures Over $8.5 Million in Financing for Sewer Extension Project

The county has been approved for $8,568,657 in potential financing. This total includes a $5,568,653 loan from the WQSRF Base Loan Program, along with $500,004 in principal forgiveness. An additional $2,500,000 in principal forgiveness will be provided through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act General Supplemental funds.

"This investment represents another major step forward in Wicomico County's commitment to safeguarding water quality, expanding sewer service, and eliminating aging or failing septic systems," said County Executive Julie Giordano. "By combining low-interest financing with strategic loan forgiveness, we're making this crucial infrastructure more feasible and sustainable for our community."

The project aims to reduce nutrient pollution in local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay by connecting properties currently using septic systems to the public sewer service. To facilitate this, the county has hired KCI Technologies, Inc., an engineering and consulting firm, to manage the project's design, environmental compliance, and permitting. Construction is scheduled to begin by December 2026.

While the selection by MWIFA is a significant step, it is not a final loan commitment. The funding is contingent upon the completion of programmatic requirements, a review by the Maryland Board of Public Works, and formal acceptance by the Wicomico County Council.

Executive Giordano expressed confidence that the project will receive council approval, noting the council's long-standing recognition of the importance of the County's Water and Sewer Master Plan.

"This project aligns with the shared goals of public health, environmental stewardship, and infrastructure resilience. I am optimistic that the Council will support its swift advancement so we can move into implementation without delay," she stated.

Interest rates for the loan will be determined at closing. Rates are expected to be between 0.90% and 1.00% for disadvantaged communities and between 1.90% and 2.50% for standard rates, depending on market conditions.

MWIFA noted that the demand for this type of financing is high across the state, highlighting the need for projects to be ready for implementation. Wicomico County will continue to work with MWIFA and the Maryland Department of the Environment to meet all requirements.

"This project exemplifies effective collaboration among local, state, and federal stakeholders," Giordano added. "I thank the Maryland Department of the Environment, MWIFA leadership, our engineering teams at KCI, and all County divisions for their dedication to advancing this vision."