Natick and Millis Awarded Grants to Address PFAS Contamination

Boston – Representative David Linsky(D-Natick) announced today that the Baker-Polito Administration has awarded $3 million in grants to 17 public water supply systems to support efforts to address elevated levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. Natick and Mills were among the 17 public water supply systems awarded grants for expenses related to the design and planning of treatment systems that protect drinking water against PFAS.

“Ensuring high quality drinking water in our communities is a fundamental basic right that unfortunately has been overlooked. These grants will provide Natick and Millis the proper funding to remove any possible contamination from our drinking water and keep our communities healthy” said Representative Linsky. “I want to thank MassDEP for awarding Natick and Millis with the PFAS Grant as they will continue to help prioritize the health of the Commonwealth.”

PFAS compounds are a family of chemicals widely used since the 1950s to manufacture common consumer products and used in some legacy fire-fighting foams. Drinking water may become contaminated if PFAS deposited onto the soil seeps into groundwater or surface water. PFAS have been linked to a variety of health risks, particularly in women who are pregnant or nursing, and in infants. In October, the Baker-Polito Administration established a protective standard of 20 parts-per-trillion (ppt) for PFAS in drinking water and required water systems to regularly test for the contaminants.

Fifth Middlesex Awarded Water Supplies:

• Millis DPW – $197,990 for planning and design.
• Town of Natick – $135,800 for reimbursement and new planning and design.

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For More Information: Connor Green (Connor.Green@mahouse.gov)