37 SC communities getting money for water, sewer

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Dozens of South Carolina communities are sharing $16 million in federal grants for water and sewer projects.

The state Commerce Department said Friday that 37 local governments won the grants through a competitive process.

The projects include extension of water lines to residents without public water, improvement to existing water and sewer systems, and improving drainage to prevent water overflows and property damage.

The agency says more than 80 percent of the money will go to 31 rural communities, helping 15,000 low- to moderate-income homes.

Varnville is receiving the smallest grant of $190,000 to upgrade a pump station. Fifteen communities are receiving the $500,000 maximum. The local governments must provide at least a 10 percent match.

The money comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.