$1.8 million secured for Squaxin Island Tribe’s new water source
The Squaxin Island Tribe will receive $1.8 million in federal funding for a new water source project, connecting a new water source to the Tribe’s current water system and providing more adequate water supply to the Tribe’s Shelton, Wash., reservation.
“The $1.8 million will connect a water source that will assure the safety, health and welfare of the Tribe,” Squaxin Island Tribe Chairman Kris Peters said in a news release.
The Tribe’s current clean water source is at capacity and diminishing every year. Funding will go toward the final engineering and construction, connecting to the water system, approximately 1.5 miles away.
“Access to water — and to clean water — is vital for any community’s success,” said U.S. Rep. Marilyn Strickland, D-Olympia, who secured the funding, in a news release. “Thanks to community engagement, specifically with Tribal leaders, we are certain that this much-needed funding will support residents and Tribal lands throughout our community.”
This project is also projected to provide new jobs while preserving existing jobs and will help the Tribe maintain and build a thriving economy.
“We thank Congress and especially Representative Strickland for supporting such critical infrastructure for our people,” Peters stated.
The project is included in the 2022 federal omnibus appropriations package.
