The Newport Water & Sewer District has strengthened its ability to serve the community through the successful completion of a major facility improvement project supported through financing from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's Water Supply Revolving Loan Account (WSRLA). Through the purchase of a new property in Newport and the renovation of two existing buildings, the district has established a permanent administrative headquarters and a modern maintenance facility in a location that better supports its long-term operational needs while reducing the risks associated with flooding. The project reflects a long-term commitment to reliable service, responsible investment, and community resilience.

For many years, the district operated from facilities located near the Ohio River. While the location served the utility's needs, it also exposed critical operations, equipment, and records to flood risks and other weather-related challenges. Recognizing the need for a more secure solution, the district pursued the acquisition of a nearby property that included both an existing brick office building and a garage-type structure that could be repurposed to store utility equipment.

Property acquisition represents more than a facility upgrade. It is a strategic investment in the long-term sustainability of the utility and the community it serves. The district provides water service to approximately 1,600 residents through 586 service connections and delivers an average of more than 111,000 gallons of drinking water each day.

The approximately $620,000 project, which included property acquisition and building improvements, was financed through an Ohio EPA SRF loan. Throughout the process, Great Lakes RCAP worked closely with the district to help move the project from concept to completion, assisting with nominating the project to the Ohio EPA SRF program, preparing and submitting the loan application, facilitating monthly project meetings, and helping with the disbursement of loan funds throughout construction. This technical assistance ensured the project remained on track and allowed district leadership to successfully navigate the funding and implementation process.

Following its environmental review, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency issued a Finding of No Significant Impact (FNSI), concluding that the project will not result in significant adverse environmental effects. The review found that the improvements will not increase water withdrawals, create new discharges, increase pollutant loading, or adversely affect environmental resources. In addition, the project was determined to be a cost-effective solution that will improve the district’s ability to efficiently and safely conduct day-to-day operations while reducing future flood-related risks.

Today, the former brick office building has been transformed into the district’s administrative headquarters and serves as the central hub for customer service, business operations, and utility management. Renovations included interior remodeling, office reconfiguration, accessibility improvements, updated restrooms, new windows and doors, and numerous upgrades designed to create a safer, more efficient, and welcoming environment for staff and customers alike.

The garage structure is also now fully operational as the district’s maintenance facility. The upgraded building provides dedicated space for equipment storage, maintenance activities, and operational support functions, allowing staff to work more efficiently and effectively. By bringing administrative and maintenance operations together on a single property, the district has improved coordination between departments while creating facilities that are better suited to support the day-to-day demands of operating a public utility.

With both its administrative headquarters and maintenance facility now fully operational and housed in reliable, resilient facilities, the Newport Water & Sewer District is better positioned than ever to maintain uninterrupted service, protect critical assets, prepare for future infrastructure needs, and meet the evolving needs of the community for years to come.