The City of Henderson is $500,000 closer to providing key water system upgrades to a group of households near Skenes Avenue.
Henderson Mayor Melissa Elliott said Monday’s check presentation by U.S. Congressman Don Davis will make possible the first phase of a water line extension to eight households, which she called “essential to the health and well-being of our community.”
The local allocation is one of 15 projects across the state that totals $7.2 million awarded by the Southeast Crescent Regional Commission, according to information back in December from Gov. Josh Stein’s office.
The funding will expand city‑owned water infrastructure to address private‑well water‑quality issues. Project activities include private‑well testing and the installation of 1,540 linear feet of waterline.
“I am incredibly grateful to Congressman Davis,” Elliott said. “Since I have served as Mayor, he has consistently shown up for Eastern North Carolina and for Henderson. His support has resulted in over $3 million in investments for our city, including $500,000 for a pump station in 2024, over $2 million for a communication tower, and now this most recent $500,000 for critical water infrastructure.”
The funding comes from the FY2025 State Economic and Infrastructure Development program, designed to revitalize communities and spur economic development across counties in six Southern states, including North Carolina.
“This particular investment is not just about pipes in the ground,” Elliott told WIZS News on Monday following the check presentation.
“It’s about improving quality of life, protecting public health, and ensuring that our residents have equitable access to basic necessities. It is a meaningful step forward for this area, and I am thankful for partnerships like this that continue to move our city in the right direction.”
In December, Stein said his administration is working hard to modernize systems to “build stronger foundations for growth.”
Stein, who co-chairs the SCRC committee, continued, saying “These investments will help local leaders move their priorities forward, invest in key infrastructure, and build a more prosperous future.”
N.C. Dept. of Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley stated that the projects reflect what local leaders tell their state leadership they need most. “These investments help communities tackle the challenges that hold back growth and opportunity,” Lilley said in a press statement issued in December announcing the projects. “From strengthening essential infrastructure to expanding workforce training…we’re proud to support this work and help position these communities for long-term success.”
