USDA Rural Development Assistant Administrator of Water and Environmental Programs Jacki Ponti today announced $20,848,500 in loans and grants for projects in 11 rural Georgia communities to build and improve water and wastewater infrastructure.
“Clean and safe water is essential for any community to thrive and grow,” Ponti said. “Rural Development’s Water and Environmental Programs can be used to meet a community’s needs, such as solving health and safety concerns due to failing or inadequate water systems.”
At City Hall, community members joined USDA officials to celebrate the Folkston’s achievement. USDA Rural Development is providing an $8,212,000 loan and a $3 million grant for sewer improvements.
Today’s announcement is a result of “Build-Out Georgia,” a USDA plan to increase the reach of USDA’s Water and Waste Loan and Grant Program in Georgia. The primary goals for the project are the use of the $60 million in loans, grants and guarantees allocated for Georgia in FY 2015; reduce processing times, increase outreach to rural communities, and inform rural residents, local officials and businesses of this vital financial support. Visit the Rural Development Georgia website, http://www.rd.usda.gov/ga to learn more about funding opportunities.
Several projects announced today are USDA SEARCH grants that help small rural communities with predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance on proposed water and waste disposal projects. This predevelopment work is an important first step for these communities. It helps them obtain modern, reliable services and create economic opportunity for their residents. To learn more about U.S. Dept. of Agriculture water and waste programs and possible assistance, contact the Georgia Rural Development Community Programs Division at (706) 546-2171.
President Obama’s historic investments in rural America have made our rural communities stronger. Under his leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way – strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities.