What can you expect from 2023 SRF Solicitation?
Drinking and Clean Water Projects
With the recent closing of the last fiscal year, Massachusetts has already begun looking forward as the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Projection (MassDEP) has just recently announced the opening of the solicitation period for new drinking and clean water projects which might be seeking financing through the State Revolving Fund (SRF) Loan Program. The Division of Municipal Services within MassDEP will be accepting Project Evaluation forms (PEFs) for construction projects, and asset management planning for 2023 financing until 12:00 PM on August 12, 2022. This deadline leaves only about 6 weeks for communities to submit their PEFs.
With such a specific solicitation request, for new drinking water and clean water projects, there comes with that a set of guidelines and goals the state is asking communities to keep in mind. While there are no major changes to the Drinking Water Construction Project PEFs for 2023, there are some changes to the criteria for Clean Water Construction Projects.
Those familiar with this process can likely guess the state’s 2023 goals for clean and drinking water but given the many aspects of projects that fall into either of these categories, a strong familiarity with expectations from the state will set your PEF onto a strong track towards receiving funding from the SRF.
Drinking Water Construction Projects (DWSRF)
It will come as no surprise to anyone in Massachusetts Municipal circles that MassDEP has asked communities to keep PFAS and Lead reduction in mind for Drinking Water Construction Projects seeking SRF funding in 2023. These goals have been at the forefront of Municipal and MassDEP projects partnerships for the past few years. For PFAS, the state has asked communities to be aware of their priority of keeping PFAS Contaminant Level in drinking water under their 20 parts per trillion Maximum: with the goal of getting as close to their Minimum Reporting Level of 2 parts per trillion as possible. They also report that PFAS mitigation projects may also receive a 0% interest rate loan subsidy depending on the availability of funds and the approval of the Trust Board of Trustees. More information on this issue can be found on MassDEP Fact Sheet.
Clean Water Construction Projects Ranking System
The most notable changes have been made to the Clean Water Construction Project’s (CWSRF) ranking system, in which it’s been changed to reflect the DWSRF’s 5 tiers, each with it’s own assigned point value. This tier system is meant to link SRF financing with pressing factors that affect public health, the environment, compliance & enforcement components. The secondary factors of the revised system include affordability, population, energy savings, sustainable development, and watershed management enhancement. It should also be noted that best management practices are given a new importance under this rewritten tier system. Importantly, even if a project qualifies for the maximum amount of secondary factor points, it cannot be transferred into the higher tier.
Other than these changes to the tiered point value system for evaluating projects, the priorities of CWSRF construction proposals include Combined Sewer Overflow projects that attempt to remedy discharges, Stormwater Management Planning projects for NPDES and MS4 compliance permits, and innovative green technologies designed to reduce energy or resource consumption or increase the production of renewable energy or climate resiliency.
Asset Management Planning programs are eligible to receive a subsidy of 60%, up to $150,000 for existing water infrastructure. Cybersecurity risk assessments on the other hand will be funded by AMP Grant programs but will be limited to planning and assessment only. More information on this can be found at https://www.mass.gov/service-details/asset-management-planning-grant-program
PEFs for construction projects and AMP programs can be submitted online at
https://www.mass.gov/lists/state-revolving-fund-applications-forms where you can also find MassDEP’s Project Evaluation Form Guidance and Instructions.
Tips and Advice, How CSS can assist you.
At Capital Strategic Solutions, we assist our clients in obtaining grant funding by crafting compelling applications and identifying ways to scale effective programs. We offer a full variety of grant writing, management and technical assistance services customized to the needs of our clients, including:
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Verify eligibility requirements to ensure compliance and gather all applicable data, financial records, etc.
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Assemble grant application, develop the grant narrative.
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Revising, editing, and proofreading the proposal.
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Submitting the proposal.
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Grant award management, ensuring compliance with grant award instructions.
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Collection of grant-related materials including receipts, reports, etc.
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Grant closeout process.
Our extensive experience in a variety of grants has given our team the knowledge necessary to assist with SRF solicitation in any community.
CAPITAL STRATEGIC SOLUTIONS
Capital Strategic Solutions (CSS) is a Massachusetts-based woman-owned business (WBE) comprised of former municipal employees. Our knowledge about the ins and outs of local government can help your community find the funds it needs to do the work that matters.
Our extensive experience in Grant Writing & Management, and procurement let us serve communities across New England with precision and care. Our team works around the clock to deliver cost effective solutions that minimize risk to our clients. Whether it be outreach, grant writing, or project management, our skills in the municipal world can make a difference in communities big and small.
To learn more about our services, and the expertise of our team please email us at info@Capital-Strategic-Solutions.com or call us at 508-690-0046 to schedule a meeting.