Portage, Ind., completes $3.5 million sewer rehabilitation with USACE partnership

(UI) — Federal, state and local leaders gathered July 29 to mark the completion of the Portage Interceptor Rehabilitation Project – Phase II, a $3.47 million upgrade to the city’s sewer infrastructure.

The project, completed under Section 219 of the Water Resources Development Act, rehabilitated more than 1,900 feet of sewer line to reduce inflow, infiltration and sanitary sewer overflows near wetlands and residential areas.

Funding included $2.56 million in federal support and $916,166 in non-federal contributions from the City of Portage, which covered its 25% cost-share and additional local funding. Construction was performed by Grimmer Construction Inc. of Highland, Indiana, and finished in early 2025.

“This project is a success story and it reflects the kind of results we can achieve when federal, local and congressional partners work together toward a shared goal,” said Col. Kenneth P. Rockwell, commander of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chicago District. “The improvements here will reduce inflow and infiltration, help protect public health, and support environmental resilience for years to come.”

Rep. Frank J. Mrvan (D-Ind.) praised the collaboration. “Thank you to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the leaders of the City of Portage for their collaborative efforts to complete these vital upgrades to our water infrastructure,” Mrvan said. “I look forward to building on this partnership to deliver results that improve the quality of life and create more economic activity in communities across Northwest Indiana.”

The ceremony, held at American Legion Post 260, also featured remarks from Portage Mayor Austin Bonta and USACE Project Manager Ron Papa.

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