USDA Rural Development State Director Colleen Landkamer today announced funding to repair current infrastructure of the Akeley Regional Community Center (ARCC).
“Solid infrastructure and modern facilities play a key role in the economic vitality of rural communities – attracting new businesses, retaining population and providing opportunities for future growth,” said Landkamer. “This project will ensure that these essential services are continued to be provided in a safe, central location for local residents.”
The Akeley Regional Community Center (ARCC) houses several essential community facilities, including: the local thrift store, which uses profits from sales of donated items to support the operations of the entire Community Center; the Akeley/Nevis food shelf serves over 100 families in the local community; the Akeley Community Library, which is supported by separately by grants and donations; the Paul Bunyan Archery club, which provides an indoor archery range for registered members; and finally, ARCC houses a large gymnasium that is open to the public.
Originally constructed in 1904 with two additions since, ARCC was in need of new roofing for the entire facility due to extensive leaks. In 2010, ARCC began a multi-phase roof replacement, starting with the original facility followed by the thrift store in 2013 with help from grants through USDA’s Community Facilities program.
Today’s funding will go towards the roof replacement of the remaining areas of the facility, including the gymnasium and food shelf and comes in the form of a $40,000 grant through USDA’s Community Facilities program.
Since 2009, USDA Rural Development has invested over $431 million in loans and grants to build or improve over 350 essential community facilities throughout rural Minnesota.
Rural Development also invests in housing, water and wastewater treatment, businesses, renewable energy and high-speed Internet. To learn more about Rural Development programs, visit www.rd.usda.gov/mn, or call the area office in Detroit Lakes, Minn. at (218) 847-9392, ext. 4.