Sandy Lake will be getting a large financial boost to support water system improvements in the area.

The city will get a grant for $4.2 million combined with a 1% low-interested for more than $4.1 million, which will be repaid over 30 years, according to a news release from Sen. Michele Brooks.

The money will be used to replace about 22,000 feet of new waterline, 30 new fire hydrants and related parts. 

It will also replace 300 existing service lines and install new meters for residential customers.

Sandy lake currently serves about 238 residential customers and 20 residential customers in a small portion of Sandy Lake Township.

"Investing in this infrastructure project is an essential part of delivering a dependable water supply to our communities," Brooks said. "By reducing the number of breaks in the waterlines and preventing the associated water loss that occurs, this significant amount of grant dollars, combined with the low-interest loan, will help offset increased costs for community residents. It will not only ensure continued reliable delivery of water but will also greatly reduce the cost of maintenance and repair in the future."

Currently, the drinking water distribution system experiences more than 60 waterline breaks per year due to fractures in cast iron, copper and cement lined pipes. Acidic soil in the project area results in service saddles and fittings rusting off, leading to high rates of water loss, according to a news release from Brooks.