The following letter has been revised.

June 2008

RE: Notice of available financing for projects - Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF)

Dear Public Water Supplier:

The Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) is pleased to announce the availability of financing for Drinking Water infrastructure projects through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) loan program for calendar year 2009. Financial assistance will be provided in the form of 2% interest loans for projects that improve or protect drinking water systems. The amount of financing available for the program in calendar year 2009 will be determined just prior to the publishing of the Draft Intended Use Plan. Financing is available for Construction, Construction Management and Water System Master Planning costs. Design and Land Acquisition will not be financed through this program from 2009 DWSRF financial assistance.

The MassDEP reviews and approves project proposals, selecting those that will receive financial assistance on the basis of a competitive process. Selection criteria evaluate significant public health benefits of proposed projects and the project's ability to restore or maintain compliance with a drinking water Maximum contaminant Level (MCLs). Proponents demonstrating these attributes will receive the highest rankings.

There are no substantial changes to the DWSRF solicitation for 2009. Up to approximately 60 points continue to be available relative to Sustainable Development principles under the Commonwealth Capital application. Complete information concerning the Commonwealth Capital Application is available here. Applicants should note that the Commonwealth Capital Application process is separate from the SRF process. For this year's solicitation, the Commonwealth will give extra consideration to projects that support water and wastewater infrastructure in Smart Growth districts (40R) and Economic Growth Initiative-designated areas as well as for projects that incorporate appropriate renewable energy and/or energy efficiency components. Additional Information regarding the Growth District Initiative can be found here. Additional Information regarding the Smart Growth Districts (MGL Ch 40R) can be found here. Proponents should fill out and submit the Project Evaluation Form (PEF), which is available at: http://mass.gov/dep/water/approvals/surffms.htm#srf.

The Project Rating criteria that the Department will employ and the instructions and guidance for preparing the 2009 DWSRF Project Evaluation Form can also be found at: http://mass.gov/dep/water/approvals/surffms.htm#srf.  Hard copies of the PEF are available at MassDEP offices (Regional Offices and Boston).

If you have any questions about the forms or the program, you are encouraged to contact the appropriate regional DMS Lead staff person.

Northeast Region: Kevin Brander (978-694-3236)
Southeast Region: Richard Keith (508-946-2784)
Central Region: Paul Anderson (508-767-2802)
Western Region: Deirdre Cabral  (413-755-2148)

Applicants should deliver one (1) complete paper copy and one (1) electronic version of the PEF on compact disc, preferably in a PDF format, no later than 12:00 noon on Friday, August 29, 2008 to:

Steven J. McCurdy, Director
Division of Municipal Services
1 Winter Street, 6th Floor
Boston, MA 02108

Sincerely,

Steven J. McCurdy,  Director
Division of Municipal Services

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