Redmond receives $1.25 million federal grant for wastewater expansion

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, along with U.S. Rep. Janelle Bynum, today announced that the city of Redmond received a $1.25 million federal infrastructure investment from the Environmental Protection Agency. The funding will expand the city's sustainable wastewater treatment system.

The $1.25 million grant is designated for the Redmond Wetlands Complex, a sustainable wastewater treatment system. Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch highlighted the importance of this federal support for the rapidly growing community, which is now home to more than 38,000 residents.

“This funding is a critical investment in Redmond's future,” Mayor Fitch said. “With our community growing faster than expected, now home to more than 38,000 residents, this support helps us ensure that our infrastructure keeps pace. The $1,250,000 award enables expanded service capacity of the Redmond's Wetlands Complex, a sustainable wastewater treatment system that supports wildlife, recreation and our regional partners opening fall of 2027. We're grateful for this federal support as we build infrastructure that meets our community's needs today and in the future.”

U.S. Sen. Wyden emphasized the importance of modern infrastructure for the state. “Modern and dependable infrastructure is essential to quality of life in Redmond and every other corner of our state,” Wyden said. “I'm glad the teamwork with the delegation and the community has delivered this key investment to update and improve water infrastructure that families and small businesses in Redmond can count on for years to come.”

U.S. Sen. Merkley, who served as then-Chair of the Senate Interior-Environment Appropriations Subcommittee, played a role in securing the funding for this project. He underscored the community-driven nature of such investments. “Safe, reliable water infrastructure is essential to every community and this federal investment will help Redmond strengthen the wastewater system that serves local families and businesses,” Merkley said. “Community-initiated projects like this one are effective because no one knows the unique needs of communities across Oregon like the folks living and working in them. I'll keep fighting to deliver federal resources that help build and maintain the infrastructure Oregonians depend on.”

U.S. Rep. Bynum also commented on the broader economic and social benefits of the investment. “Investing in wastewater infrastructure means more homes, healthier families and a stronger economy,” Bynum said. “This funding will help make sure that the people of Redmond maintain access to the reliable water services they need to keep building a better and stronger future for our children and community.”

The expanded service capacity of the Redmond Wetlands Complex is designed to support local wildlife, provide recreational opportunities and engage regional partners.

The Redmond Wetlands Complex is expected to begin operations in the fall of 2027.