By Roger McKinney

rmckinney@joplinglobe.com

JANE, Mo. — McDonald County Public Water Supply District No. 1 has secured funding for a $7.8 million sewer system expansion to serve Jane and the immediate area.

The project is being funded in part by grants from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The water supply district also has applied for a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant.

“We’re excited, all of us are” said JoNell Lawyer, president of the water district. “It’s going to be a real growth spurt for us.”

Lawyer said the sewer system would have about 300 customers.

A $2.25 million revenue bond issue, which customers will repay, also will provide funds. Lawyer said the sewer rate for customers hasn’t been determined yet.

Lawyer said this is the second phase of the project, which will run from Gordon Hollow Bridge to Jane. The first phase included the Arkansas state line to the bridge.

Lawyer said installation is expected to start in early 2010.

“We’re projecting to be up and running by late 2010,” Lawyer said. “It will take eight to 10 months to complete.”

Bruce Hively, area specialist for USDA Rural Development, said he has been working with the water district on the project for about three years.

He said the sewer system’s business customers will include the Wal-Mart Super Center in Jane.

Bella Vista’s role

Bruce Hively, area specialist for USDA Rural Development, said Bella Vista, Ark., would be treating the sewage from Jane. He said the cooperation of Bella Vista officials was crucial.