(BRONSON) – The City of Bronson is receiving State funds to do infrastructure work at the wastewater treatment facility.

State Rep. Jennifer Wortz and Bronson City Officials announced Tuesday they secured $609,000 in state funding to replace the aging ultraviolet disinfection system at the Bronson wastewater treatment facility. The State dollars were approved through the budget process.

Wortz, a Republican from Quincy, says getting the money for this key infrastructure is a perfect example of how state and local leaders can work together for the betterment of our communities. She says the City of Bronson came to her with a request for this funding through the State budget. Through combined efforts, Wortz says they were able to successfully negotiate and secure these dollars in the final agreement. This new disinfection system will ensure Bronson’s water is safe for residents and businesses alike.

The current UV system was initially installed in 1993 and has long surpassed its intended lifespan. City officials say parts for repair are increasingly difficult and expensive to obtain. Additionally, a control panel, critical for automated system operation, was recently disabled by a lightning strike. As a result, the system is currently being operated manually.

Installation of the new modern, energy-efficient system will restore automated control, enhance reliability, and ensure consistent disinfection of treated effluent.

Bronson City Manager Brandon Mersman says this funding is a significant victory for the City’s sanitary sewer system. He says Bronson is incredibly grateful to Representative Wortz for her dedication in championing this critical infrastructure project and bringing it to the finish line.