SALISBURY, Md. — Wicomico County has been selected for potential funding totaling $8,568,657 to support the Septic Elimination and Salisbury Sewer Extension Project, County Executive Julie Giordano announced Tuesday. The funding comes through the Federal Fiscal Year 2025 Water Quality State Revolving Fund (WQSRF) Intended Use Plan.
The funding package includes $5,568,653 in low-interest loans, $500,004 in standard loan principal forgiveness, and $2,500,000 in principal forgiveness through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act General Supplemental funds. The project aims to expand sewer service, eliminate aging septic systems, and reduce nutrient pollution in local waterways and the Chesapeake Bay. KCI Technologies, Inc., has been retained to manage project design, permitting, environmental compliance, and engineering work. Construction is scheduled to begin by December 2026.
While MWIFA’s selection positions the county for funding, final approval depends on completion of program requirements, review by the Maryland Board of Public Works, and formal approval by the Wicomico County Council. Giordano said she expects the Council to support the project, which aligns with the county’s Water and Sewer Master Plan. Interest rates will be set at loan closing, with rates for disadvantaged communities projected between 0.90% and 1.00%, and standard rates between 1.90% and 2.50%, depending on market conditions.
Giordano highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, noting coordination between local, state, and federal agencies, including the Maryland Department of the Environment and MWIFA, as well as engineering support from KCI Technologies.
