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USDA Invests $36 Million to Expand Rural Electric Infrastructure in Northwest Oregon

Name
Erin McDuff
Phone
City
Portland
Release Date

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development is providing a $36 million low-interest loan to expand electric infrastructure in rural northwest Oregon, announced State Director John Huffman today.

"We all depend on access to electricity, but some rural areas still lack service," said Huffman. "Today's funding reflects our commitment to help rural communities improve and expand this essential infrastructure because we know when rural Oregon thrives, all of Oregon thrives."

Tillamook People's Utility District has been approved to receive up to a $36 million loan to improve and expand electric infrastructure in rural Tillamook, Yamhill, and Clatsop counties. This customer-owned utility will improve several miles of both electric transmission and distribution line, as well as install 10 miles of new line. The improvements made with this funding will increase the utility's distribution capacity, ensure greater reliability of service, and connect an additional 600 customers throughout the utility's service territory.

This funding is being provided through USDA's Electric Infrastructure Loan Program, which provides loans and loan guarantees to nonprofits, cooperatives, public bodies, and other utilities, primarily for electric distribution in rural areas. Funding is contingent upon the recipient meeting the terms of the loan agreement.

USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety, and healthcare facilities; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. Learn more at www.rd.usda.gov/or.