Dover receives $1.8 million federal grant for infrastructure upgrades

The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration has awarded the city of Dover a $1.8 million grant for water infrastructure improvements aimed at supporting business development and future growth.

The project will replace a pump station and increase sewer capacity on the city’s north end, helping accommodate new manufacturing and residential development. City officials said the improvements will support a 300,000-square-foot manufacturing facility and more than 100 new homes. Other developments on the city's north end include an ALDI at the corner of Wooster and Ohio avenues and a Taco Bell next to Drug Mart on Dublin Drive.

The total project cost is about $3.6 million. In addition to the federal grant, the city has secured another $1.2 million in separate state and federal funding.

Officials said the upgrades will replace aging infrastructure dating to the 1970s while supporting existing businesses and future expansion.

The Dover award is part of an $8.3 million investment announced by the Economic Development Administration for projects in Ohio, South Dakota and Colorado through its Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance programs.

“The Economic Development Administration is committed to providing communities with the resources they need to create jobs and support business expansion, revitalizing America’s competitive spirit,” Deputy Assistant Secretary and Chief Operating Officer Ben Page said. “These awards will do just that, providing the capital and infrastructure that businesses need to develop, expand and succeed.”

Other awards announced included $3.5 million for infrastructure improvements tied to the Aberdeen Industrial Park expansion in Aberdeen, South Dakota, and $3 million for airport expansion and development of an aviation business park at Yampa Valley Regional Airport in Hayden, Colorado.