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U.S. Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith, both D-Minn., announced Thursday the House of Representatives passed legislation that included $1 million in funding for the Albert Lea Wastewater Treatment Plant.

According to a news release, the funding will go toward updating the infrastructure at the wastewater treatment plant to support local food producers while maintaining the city’s high standards for environmental protection. Klobuchar and Smith requested the funding along with U.S. Representative Brad Finstad (R-MN). The bill now goes to the Senate for final passage.

“By upgrading the wastewater infrastructure system, this project will support local food producers, create jobs and ensure the surrounding environment is protected. With the federal funding I secured, the upgrades are one step closer to completion,” Klobuchar said.

“Upgrading our wastewater treatment infrastructure helps keep our communities healthy and local economies thriving,” Smith said. “This project in Albert Lea will help local food-producing businesses continue their work while maintaining clean water for the surrounding communities.”

Klobuchar and Smith have been actively involved in securing this federal funding for projects benefiting communities across the state through a process called Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS). During the CDS process, Klobuchar and Smith have considered project proposals and advocated for funding in close coordination with leaders from across the state.