Thomaston has been awarded a $350,000 grant to upgrade parts of its public water system.

The system’s infrastructure is deteriorating, resulting in problems like low water pressure as well as bad tasting and discolored water.

The improvements will involve replacing old undersized cast iron water lines with properly sized PVC pipe. Doing so will restore the system’s structural integrity and eliminate the problems, Mayor Jeff Laduron said.

“We are very excited about this project,” Laduron said, adding that the original system was installed in 1952. “When completed, this project will improve the quality of life in our community.”

About two years ago, the town completed some work by replacing old two-inch cast iron mains. Redoing the lines will finish the project, the mayor said.

“Now by replacing the old larger lines, we will have a much better water system,” Laduron said.

Laduron thanked Stacy McKean with Premier Grants Consulting, LLC; Chad N. Jordan, PE with Goodwyn, Mills and Cawood; and County Commissioner Calvin Martin for their help with the project.

Construction is set to start after the first of the year. The project includes the center of town, from First Avenue through Sixth Avenue and along Alabama 25 near the end of Thomaston town limits.

The improvements will be operated and maintained by the Thomaston Water Works and Gas Board.

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) oversee the Community Development Block Grant program.

Funds come to Alabama from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Local municipalities compete for the money, which is awarded by the Alabama Governor’s Office and ADECA.