WASHINGTON — Praising vital funding for essential infrastructure upgrades in Ohio’s 18th Congressional District, U.S. Rep. Zack Space, OH-18, announced Thursday that his request for $400,000 in funding to replace septic systems and install wastewater treatment facilities in Knox County has cleared the House of Representatives. The project benefits seven unincorporated communities in Knox County and will directly affect nearly 1,300 residents.

The project was approved by the House as part of the Conference Report on the FY2010 Interior Appropriations Bill. The funds will be used to assist with the installation of decentralized sewer systems and wastewater treatment facilities in each of the seven communities receiving funding. This includes, but is not limited to, sewer pipe, manholes, home laterals, septic tanks, and wastewater treatment plants.

Once the project is completed, over 350 private septic systems will be diverted into a county decentralized sewer system, reducing pollution in local water sources.

The seven Knox County communities which benefit are Amity, Brandon, Bladensburg, Jelloway, Millwood, Mount Liberty and Rich Hill.