Walberg secures $2 million grant for sewer system work in New Buffalo

Funds will help replace aging water treatment infrastructure in the Galien River Sanitary District

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:56pm

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A detailed, photorealistic painting of an old, rusted sewer grate in the foreground, with the warm, golden light and deep shadows creating a nostalgic, cinematic mood that evokes the importance of municipal infrastructure.A federal grant will help a Michigan community upgrade its aging sewer system, ensuring reliable access to clean water for residents.Three Rivers Today

Congressman Tim Walberg has secured a $2 million federal grant to help the Galien River Sanitary District Sewer Authority in New Buffalo, Michigan replace its aging tertiary filter, a critical component of the area's water treatment process. The project will update infrastructure dating back to the 1970s.

Why it matters

Maintaining and upgrading aging water infrastructure is a key priority for many communities, ensuring reliable access to clean water for residents and businesses. This grant will allow the Galien River Sanitary District to make necessary improvements to its sewer system, which serves as an important environmental safeguard by properly treating wastewater before it is discharged.

The details

The $2 million grant secured by Congressman Walberg will specifically fund the replacement of the district's tertiary filter, a vital piece of equipment that enables the water treatment process. The existing filter infrastructure dates back to the 1970s and is in need of an upgrade. Walberg visited the district last week to meet with local leaders and discuss the project.

  • Congressman Walberg secured the $2 million federal grant in March 2026.
  • Walberg visited the Galien River Sanitary District Sewer Authority last week to discuss the project.

The players

Congressman Tim Walberg

A U.S. Representative who represents Michigan's 7th congressional district and was able to secure the $2 million federal grant for the Galien River Sanitary District Sewer Authority.

Galien River Sanitary District Sewer Authority

The local water and sewer authority in New Buffalo, Michigan that will use the $2 million grant to replace aging water treatment infrastructure.

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What they’re saying

“That will assist in putting together their filter. I learned more about water purification from the sewer systems, etc., than I've ever known before, but these are big filters that enable us to use our resources in a greater stewardship fashion and make sure that we have clean water that at the very least is then funneled back into our river systems and, of course the lake, as well.”

— Congressman Tim Walberg

What’s next

The Galien River Sanitary District Sewer Authority will begin the process of replacing its tertiary filter using the $2 million federal grant secured by Congressman Walberg.

The takeaway

This grant will allow the Galien River Sanitary District to modernize its water treatment capabilities, ensuring the community has access to clean, reliable water resources while also protecting the local environment by properly treating wastewater. It's an important investment in the region's infrastructure.