U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development State Director Elsie Meeks announced today that the Oglala Sioux (Lakota) Housing has been approved for a Special Evaluation Assistance for Rural Communities and Households (SEARCH) grant of $30,000 to correct sewer system deficiencies.
“An environmentally safe sewer system is essential to the residents of Red Shirt located on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation,” said Meeks. “President Obama has been a strong advocate to ensure that rural communities in South Dakota and across the nation receive essential funding for infrastructure so that these communities are built to last.”
The proposed project includes an evaluation of the sewer collection system and treatment lagoon to determine a proper course of action to correct system deficiencies and provide a system to better service the residents of Red Shirt. A Preliminary Engineering Report and Environmental Report will be conducted in order to prepare for the actual rehabilitation that will correct the deficiencies and get the sewer system back into compliance with EPA regulations.
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.