Millions of Americans receive safe and healthy drinking water from public water systems. But access to safe drinking water should not be taken for granted, and many communities find water quality jeopardized by aging infrastructure. The Central Water Works is making improvements to its distribution lines to safeguard the local water supply.
The water system improvement project is made possible with assistance from USDA Rural Development with funding in part through the 2014 Farm Bill. Against the backdrop of a community Earth Day celebration, Rural Development Area Director Tim G. Rogers, on behalf of State Director Richard A. Machek, formally announced that Central Water Works will receive $1,588,300 in funding to assist with the project. The $906,000 loan and $682,300 grant paves the way for replacement and upsize of approximately 70,000 linear feet of water distribution lines and related valves, and fire hydrant assemblies.
“Having access to clean water is a critical need shared by everyone,” said Rural Development Area Director Tim G. Rogers. “Rural Development is working with rural communities across America to improve water and sewage systems. Today, as we celebrate Earth Day, we are especially pleased to work with the Central Water Works, Inc.”
Earth Day is observed annually on April 22 to raise awareness about the role each person can play to protect vital natural resources and safeguard the environment. Since the first Earth Day celebration in 1970, the event has expanded to include citizens and governments in more than 195 countries.
President Obama’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President’s 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. USDA’s investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values. President Obama and Agriculture Secretary Vilsack are committed to a smarter use of federal resources to foster sustainable economic prosperity and ensure the government is a strong partner for businesses, entrepreneurs and working families in rural communities.
USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, has a portfolio of programs designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.