NORWICH – The City of Norwich has secured funding for a multi-million dollar project that will replace the city’s worn steel water tank with a new one that city officials say will last for the next 100 years.

U.S. Representative Richard Hanna announced on Tuesday a $1.85 million federal loan for the City of Norwich to upgrade its deteriorating water storage tank on Wheeler Avenue. The loan was made available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development program.

The city also received a $750,000 grant from Rural Development. Funds will be used to demolish the existing water storage tank and valve vault and replace it with a new, pre-stressed concrete water tank and control valve vault, a new storm water detention basin, and an access drive from Wheeler Avenue to the new tank.

Congressman Hanna said upgrades are critical and will help Norwich residents and businesses maintain safe and reliable access to water.

“I am pleased that the City of Norwich received this much-needed loan and grant funding to improve water facilities in the city,” he said. “I will continue partnering with Mayor (Joseph) Maiurano and Norwich leaders to improve quality of life and business climate in the community.”

In July, the Norwich Common Council authorized two resolutions pertaining to the project; one approving the project and the release of necessary funding, and the other to file any necessary paperwork to funding agencies for distribution of finances awarded to the city.