Wastewater management tops the priority list.“We’re just now completing phase four of our long-term control plan,” Mayor Long explains. “We recently installed a new wastewater interceptor line on the west side of town.”The city is also planning a strategic bypass for a new wastewater line from the Northeast business park to the treatment plant. “If we bypass the city’s center, we can save millions, potentially reducing the cost from $40 million to $13 million,” the mayor notes. This cost-effective approach could benefit smaller towns by accommodating additional wastewater capacity. Industrial development demands its own infrastructure solutions, and the city is coordinating with utility providers to ensure adequate service capacity for incoming businesses. However, the digital divide remains a pressing concern. While the city enjoys robust internet service from three providers offering gigabit speeds, rural areas face significant challenges. “Through Imagine One85, we’ve identified over 2,700 underserved or unserved addresses in the county,” Downard reveals.The county is actively pursuing federal infrastructure funding and state programs like Next Level Connections to bridge this gap. For smaller communities like Roann, limited internet access poses a real barrier to growth.“When people ask about moving to Roann, one of the first questions they ask is about internet service,” Ferguson shares. “When I tell them we still rely on copper, they often look elsewhere.” The county’s infrastructure vision extends beyond these immediate challenges. “We’re a Stellar Pathways finalist, which could bring $7 million in grants for infrastructure,” Zartman adds. Projects span wastewater systems, road connections, and increased electrical capacity. “We’re building the foundation for future development while meeting the needs of today,” she concludes, highlighting the county’s comprehensive approach to infrastructure development. ADDRESSING HOUSING NEEDS ACROSS WABASH COUNTY Wabash County is taking an ambitious, multipronged approach to housing development, with projects ranging from new construction to historic renovation. These initiatives span every corner of the county, addressing needs at all price points and lifestyle preferences. The Legacy Heights project represents a significant step forward. “We were fortunate to receive $2.4 million in funding for infrastructure,” Mayor Long explains. “The site will include nine villa duplex homes and 26 single-family homes across 13 acres.” 7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 02 WABASH COUNTY, IN
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