SELMA – In recognition of National Infrastructure Week, Secretary Elizabeth Biser of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality paid a visit to the Town of Selma. Selma Mayor Byron James McAllister and members of Town Council welcomed Secretary Biser to Selma on May 19.
Secretary Biser toured the Selma Water Plant that was recently awarded $6.5 million for wells and water expansion. She also toured Brack Wilson Park which was awarded $8.25 million for sewer system improvements that include a lift station relocation.
Secretary Biser is no stranger to Johnston County as her father served as Johnston County Manager at one time. She shared her excitement at having this opportunity to celebrate water infrastructure investment in North Carolina.
Secretary Biser discussed how one of the top priorities of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality is making sure that everyone in North Carolina has access to clean reliable drinking water.
She continued to note that over the past year the Department of Environmental Quality has had an unprecedented $2.3 billion to invest in water and wastewater infrastructure throughout the state. Secretary Biser mentioned how important these investments are as they are crucial to supporting future economic development, sustainability, and protecting public health.
Mayor Byron McAllister had noted that Selma wants to “grow smart” and Secretary Biser commended that statement.
The Secretary praised NC House Representative Donna White and NC Senator Benton Sawrey for their leadership in the legislature to prioritize funding for water and wastewater infrastructure.
Town of Selma officials said they were grateful for the opportunity to welcome Biser and her team to Town and for the efforts her department, the NC Senate and the NC House of Representatives have placed on water and wastewater project funding.
