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Seaford approves $1.535 million SRF binding commitment for Martin Farms sewer relocation Phase 1
Summary
Council approved a DE DNREC State Revolving Fund binding commitment: a $1,535,000 loan at 2% for 20 years (0% interest during construction) to relocate aging sewer mains in the Martin Farms area (Phase 1).
Seaford Mayor and Council unanimously approved a Delaware DNREC State Revolving Fund (SRF) binding commitment on Jan. 14 to finance Phase 1 of the Martin Farms sewer relocation project. The commitment covers a $1,535,000 loan at 2% interest over 20 years; during construction the loan carries 0% interest.
Director of Public Works Tyler Meares presented the project, describing Phase 1 as approximately 1,750 feet of 12-inch gravity sewer main along Locust Street from Nylon to King and associated water-main work. Meares said the city had included the loan in the current budget and that some principal forgiveness had been obtained connected to lead removal in the broader project; he attributed principal forgiveness to lead-abatement work rather than median household income criteria.
Meares told council the existing sewer and water lines date to roughly the 1950s–1970s, are located largely in homeowners’ back yards and are difficult to access (pools, fences, and sheds complicate maintenance), and that the planned relocation will reverse flows and place lines in more accessible locations in front yards and streets. Meares said the project has been on public works’ plan for three to five years and that the Phase 1 improvements will also serve future development: a planned lift station for a nearby development will flow into the new line.
Specifics presented included water work for the overall project (10-inch, 8-inch and 6-inch mains in various segments) and that the budgeted loan amount of $1,535,000 is in this year’s budget. Meares reiterated the city’s plan to pursue Phase 2 funding while SRF funds are available.
Councilwoman Stephanie Grasset moved to approve DNREC’s binding commitment offer and to permit the city manager to execute all necessary loan closing documents; Councilman McQuillan seconded. The motion passed unanimously.
The approval authorizes the city manager to complete loan-closing steps with DNREC and advance construction planning for Phase 1. Meares said the team will apply for Phase 2 funding while state SRF funds remain available.
