(Stevens Point, Wis., February 17, 2026) – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson today announced that Rural Development is providing the city of Gillett with a $994,000 loan for sewer system upgrades.
“This investment towards a dependable sewer system in the city of Gillett will improve the lives of families and businesses in the community by improving the sanitation system while keeping utilities rates affordable,” said Iverson. “Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, USDA Rural Development is committed to strengthening rural Wisconsin.”
The sanitary sewer system within the project area is vitrified clay pipe, which has become very brittle with cracks, mineral deposits and root penetration in a large percentage of pipelines. There have been numerous sanitary sewer breaks within the project area over the last 20 years, resulting in significant increases in the inflow and infiltration.
The project will include replacement of sanitary sewer manholes and connections made to cross street sewer mains. These improvements will help eliminate maintenance costs, improve health and safety by reducing potential for flooding and provide additional capacity to reduce inflow and infiltration. The sewer project upgrades will be completed in conjunction with water system upgrades in the same area.
This Rural Development funding is in addition to the initial investment of $930,000 made in fiscal year 2022.
“These projects are not easy, however, leaders in communities like Gillett are stepping up and tackling projects that ensure every Wisconsinite has the safe, reliable sanitation they deserve,” said Iverson. “This additional funding demonstrates commitment to community leaders who think ahead and do what is best for their communities.”
Funding for this project is through Rural Development’s Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant Program. The program helps rural communities extend and improve water and waste treatment facilities that serve local households and businesses.
Water and Waste Disposal program funding may be used to finance the acquisition, construction or improvement of:
- Drinking water sourcing, treatment, storage and distribution
- Sewer collection, transmission, treatment and disposal
- Solid waste collection, disposal and closure
- Storm water collection, transmission and disposal
The program assists qualified applicants who are not otherwise able to obtain commercial credit on reasonable terms. Eligible applicants include:
- Most state and local government entities
- Private nonprofits
- Federally recognized Tribes
Applications for the Water and Waste Disposal Loan and Grant program are accepted year-round. Additional information about the program is available online.
USDA Rural Development invests in rural America with programs to promote rural prosperity. These programs expand access to high-speed internet, electricity, and transportation infrastructure, and support economic growth, healthcare, education, housing, and other community essentials. Discover more investment details and historical data in the Rural Data Gateway and learn more about the agency at www.rd.usda.gov/wi.
