Planning Ahead Pays Off!
Iowa SRF Planning & Design Loans:
Planning and design work can be a major upfront cost, especially for small and mid-sized communities. Iowa’s SRF Planning & Design Loan Program helps communities begin necessary project development without immediately placing those costs on local reserves or ratepayers.

Iowa communities planning water, wastewater, or stormwater improvements may be eligible for 0% interest Planning & Design Loans through the Iowa State Revolving Fund. These loans can help cover eligible project planning and design costs before construction funding is in place.

Next application deadline: October 5, 2026

DGR Engineering can help you evaluate eligibility, prepare application materials, and keep your project moving.

FAQ:

What can the loan be used for?
Planning & Design Loans may be used for eligible costs directly related to an SRF-eligible drinking water, wastewater, or stormwater project. This may include engineering fees, environmental studies, archaeological surveys, geological studies, project plan preparation, and related application or submittal costs.

Why consider applying?
The program offers 0% interest with no payments due for up to three years, and there are no initiation or servicing fees. Planning & Design Loans can later be rolled into an SRF construction loan or repaid when permanent financing is secured.

Who should reach out?
Communities, public water systems, wastewater utilities, and other eligible entities considering infrastructure improvements should begin planning early. If your community has a project in mind — or simply knows improvements are needed — DGR can help identify next steps.

When should you apply?

Applications are accepted quarterly, with the next deadline on October 5, 2026. If you are considering a drinking water, wastewater, or stormwater project, now is the time to begin reviewing eligibility, defining the project scope, and gathering the information needed for a complete application.

DGR Engineering can help with:

• Project eligibility review

• Planning and design scope development

• SRF application coordination

• Engineering reports and supporting documentation

• Design, permitting, bidding, and construction-phase services

Don’t wait! Contact DGR Engineering to discuss your project in time to meet the next application deadline (October 5).