Example Municipality
Nutrient removal modernization
Treatment plant upgrades reduced nutrient loads while preparing for tighter permit limits.
Read storyVideo · About 90 seconds
Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF)
The CWSRF helps municipalities and eligible borrowers finance wastewater treatment, stormwater controls, and other projects that protect Rhode Island's waters.
$250M+
Committed since inception
Illustrative total
38%
Interest cost savings vs. market
Representative benchmark
240+
Projects assisted
Placeholder figure
1989
Program established
Historical context
Eligibility
Who can apply
Municipalities, quasi-public wastewater entities, and other eligible borrowers as defined in program guidance may apply when projects appear on an approved Intended Use Plan (IUP).
Use of funds
Eligible uses commonly include wastewater treatment upgrades, nutrient removal, stormwater BMPs, combined sewer improvements, asset management planning tied to capital work, and related engineering when consistent with federal and state priorities.
Requirements
Projects typically require environmental review readiness, permitting alignment, readiness to proceed (design/construction schedules), creditworthiness or supported security structures, and compliance with state procurement and reporting expectations.
Final eligibility is determined by RIIB staff based on program rules in effect at application. Use this page as orientation, not legal advice.
Success stories
View all stories
Example District
Stormwater retrofit corridor
A coordinated BMP program addressed flooding and improved receiving water quality downtown.
Read storyExample City
CSO reduction investments
Targeted sewer separation and storage reduced untreated overflows during wet weather.
Read story
How to apply
Planning cycles vary; allow several months for engineering readiness, environmental review alignment, and credit underwriting.
Confirm eligibility
Discuss your project scope with program staff and verify alignment with current funding priorities.
Jump to eligibilityPrepare documentation
Assemble preliminary engineering, permits strategy, schedule, and financial/credit materials requested in the application packet.
Submit application
Submit through the channel described in the program guide for the active funding round.
Underwriting and closing
RIIB completes credit review and coordinates closing steps with counsel and borrowing counsel as applicable.
Documents
Client resources / FAQ hubProgram application
Primary submission form for review cycles.
PDF · Updated annually
Borrower guide
Overview of roles, timelines, and compliance checkpoints.
PDF · ~420 KB
Intended Use Plan (IUP)
Lists categories and constraints for funding priorities.
Published yearly
Compliance checklist
Procurement and reporting reminders before disbursements.
PDF
Frequently asked questions
Who sets interest rates for CWSRF loans?
Rates reflect program policies and market conditions at closing. Confirm current pricing with staff during underwriting.
Can storm-only projects qualify?
Stormwater projects may qualify when consistent with eligible categories and priorities described in program guidance.
Where do I send technical questions?
Use the contact section below for staff routing. Engineering questions may be coordinated with your assigned project analyst.
Is there a deadline for applications?
Funding rounds vary. Refer to posted notices for the active cycle or ask staff about pipeline intake.
Related programs
Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF)
Companion program for drinking water infrastructure financing.
Municipal Road & Bridge Program (MRP)
Related municipal infrastructure financing options.
Contact
Jordan Rivera
Senior Program Analyst, Water Programs
Coordinates intake questions, document routing, and scheduling for borrower meetings.
- Phone
- (401) 555-0198
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