BOZEMAN, MT., Oct. 2, 2024 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Xochitl Torres Small announced a $1.3 billion investment in 116 projects nationwide to enhance access to clean, reliable electric grids, safe drinking water, and job creation in rural and Tribal communities. These investments are part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader efforts to build resilient rural communities and grow the economy through the Investing in America agenda.
Among the projects receiving funding, Montana’s Gardiner Park County Water District will be awarded a $162,000 grant. This funding will replace over 600 feet of water main pipes destroyed by the Yellowstone River flooding in June 2022. The new, larger pipes will enhance the community’s water infrastructure, making it more resilient against future severe weather events.
“Since day one, the Biden-Harris Administration and USDA have taken action to create good-paying jobs by making sure every community can benefit from safe drinking water and a reliable electric grid that lowers bills for hardworking families,” said Deputy Secretary Torres Small. “These projects will ensure that rural Americans have access to reliable, affordable energy and clean water no matter where they live. In the face of climate change, resilient power grids and strong water infrastructure are even more critical to building resilient rural communities and maintaining strong local economies.”
In total, USDA announcement includes $443 million under the Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants program to expand clean drinking water and sanitation services in 24 states. This includes more than $30 million to help utilities rebuild and strengthen infrastructure in states recently affected by natural disasters, including Montana.
Montana’s State Director for USDA Rural Development, Kathleen Williams, praised the funding: “This investment in Gardiner is a critical step in ensuring Montana’s rural communities can recover from natural disasters while building stronger, more resilient infrastructure. At USDA, we are committed to helping Montana thrive.”
For more information about USDA Rural Development’s programs and investments, visit www.rd.usda.gov/mt.