VALLEY GRANDE — In an effort to replace an outdated piping system, the city of Valley Grande is seeking a grant from the state. During their regular council meeting Monday, Valley Grande Mayor Wayne Labbe discussed grant options in a public hearing before the council. 

Ray Hogg of Hogg Engineering proposed pursuing a grant of $450,000, which the city would have to match with $45,000.

“Basically, we’ve completed the first phase of the project, which was putting in new pumping stations,” Labbe explained. “The second phase is what we’re in right now, which is getting the grant.”

Current piping in the city dates back to the mid to late 60’s, Labbe explained, and added that in recent years the system has shifted, causing problems for some 95 residents in the city.

In order to receive the grant, the city would have to express in a report why they need the piping. And whatever amount the city receives, the city would have to match it with 10 percent, Labbe said.

“The top grant — the most we could get — would be $450,000,” he said. “That’s what Ray is looking into right now.”

The pipes in Valley Grande are currently made out of terra cotta — a dated material, Labbe said. If the city were to get the grant, the pipes would be replaced with a newer material that would last longer.

“The grant money would also be used to repave the streets where we replace the pipes,” Labbe said. “This grant we’re going for now is to replace the gravity feed lines that run under the streets from manhole to manhole.”