Wahoo Uses $1.3M Federal Grant to Replace Aging Gas Pipes

Upgrades aim to keep utility bills low for residents as inflation impacts costs

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The city of Wahoo, Nebraska is using a $1.3 million federal grant to replace aging underground gas pipes, some nearly 100 years old, across 18 separate project sites. The outdated metal pipes lack protection against corrosion and the city is working to complete the replacements, with three major projects underway and 15 more sites still needing work. The savings from using existing city staff for some of the projects will help Wahoo plan for additional infrastructure improvements, including new work on the city's south side, while also keeping monthly gas bills down for residents despite inflation pressures.

Why it matters

Wahoo's aging gas infrastructure posed safety and reliability risks for the community. Replacing the outdated pipes with federal grant funding allows the city to make critical upgrades without burdening residents with higher utility costs during a period of high inflation.

The details

Wahoo is replacing gas pipes that are close to a century old and lack proper corrosion protection. Three major replacement projects are underway using contractors, while the city plans to leverage existing staff to complete 15 additional sites over the next few years. The savings from the staff-led projects will enable Wahoo to pursue other infrastructure improvements, including new work on the city's south side, while also keeping monthly gas bills affordable for residents.

  • The $1.3 million federal grant was awarded to Wahoo in 2024.
  • The three major gas pipe replacement projects are currently underway.
  • The remaining 15 gas pipe replacement sites are expected to be completed over the next three years.

The players

Wahoo Utilities

The municipal utility provider responsible for managing Wahoo's gas infrastructure and overseeing the replacement projects.

Ryan Hurst

The general manager of Wahoo Utilities, who discussed the city's vision for growth and infrastructure investments.

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What they’re saying

“We believe Wahoo's at a great opportunity for growth and we want to make sure we're making the necessary investments for our current customers and for our future growth.”

— Ryan Hurst, General Manager, Wahoo Utilities (3newsnow.com)

What’s next

The city plans to complete the remaining 15 gas pipe replacement sites over the next three years, leveraging existing staff to keep costs down.

The takeaway

Wahoo's proactive approach to upgrading its aging gas infrastructure using federal grant funding demonstrates the city's commitment to maintaining reliable and affordable utility services for both current and future residents, even in the face of broader economic pressures.