OVRDC Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for Macedonia Hill Waterline Extension Project in Lawrence County
On Wednesday April 22nd, the Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission (OVRDC) joined state and local partners, community leaders, and residents to celebrate the completion and ribbon cutting of the Macedonia Hill Waterline Extension Project, an investment that brings reliable, safe drinking water to a long-underserved rural community in Lawrence County, Ohio.
OVRDC and the Great Lakes Rural Community Assistance Program (RCAP) assisted the Hecla Water Association in securing a $250,000 grant from the Governor’s Office of Appalachia to support the project.
The completed project extends public water service to the Macedonia Hill area through the installation of approximately 40,000 linear feet of 4-, 6-, 8-, and 10-inch water lines, along with a new booster station and permanent backup generator. This critical infrastructure expansion ensures dependable water access for residents who previously relied on hauled water, bottled water, cisterns, or unsafe private wells.
“This project is a powerful example of what can happen when local determination meets strong regional, state, and federal partnerships,” said Kerri Richardson, OVRDC Development Director. “Access to clean drinking water is fundamental, not just for public health, but for community growth and long-term resilience.”
A majority of households in Macedonia Hill are low-income, and prior studies revealed serious water quality concerns, including unsafe private wells. The project directly addresses these issues by providing a safe, regulated water source to dozens of households.
In addition to residential service, the project also provides water access to the historic Macedonia Church, the first Black church established in Ohio and the only remaining antebellum Black church structure in the state. The site is recognized by the National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program and holds deep cultural and historical significance, including burial sites of early settlers and United States Colored Troops Civil War veterans.
The Macedonia Hill Waterline Extension Project represents nearly a decade of collaboration, advocacy, and investment. From early discussions in 2016 to construction completion in April 2026, the effort brought together partners across all levels of government and the community.
Key funding contributions included support from the Governor’s Office of Appalachia, Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5, the Lawrence County Commissioners, and additional state and federal programs.
OVRDC recognizes the leadership and dedication of the Great Lakes Rural Community Assistance Program, Lawrence County Rural Water District, local officials, partner agencies, and the residents of Macedonia Hill, whose engagement made this project possible.
For more information about funding through OVRDC, please contact Development Director Kerri Richardson at krichardson@ovrdc.org or visit ovrdc.org.
