BURRILLVILLE – The Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank announced Friday it will provide $2.85 million in principal forgiveness financing for major water system improvements in the Burrillville villages of Harrisville and Oakland.
The move comes after a routine water sampling by researchers at Brown University, in partnership with the R.I. Department of Health, uncovered high levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances.
The project aims to allow homeowners in the area to hook up to municipal water service free of charge by early summer.
“Access to safe, clean and affordable water is vitally important for all Rhode Islanders,” stated Jeffrey R. Diehl, executive director and CEO of the Infrastructure Bank. “The Infrastructure Bank is immensely proud to be assisting residents of the Oakland and Harrisville communities.”
Harrisville Water will provide service to the Oakland residents, as well as to surrounding homeowners who currently source their water from contaminated wells.