USDA Rural Housing Service Administrator Bruce Lammers today announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing $52 million in 45 community facilities projects that will benefit nearly 200,000 rural residents in 16 states.
“Under the leadership of President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, USDA is committed to partnering with rural communities to build the facilities that provide state-of-the-art services to those who depend on them,” Lammers said. “Rural areas thrive when modern and accessible education, health care, public safety and municipal services are available. This provides a foundation for growth and prosperity.”
Trinidad Area Health Association in Colorado will use a $25.7 million direct loan and a $7 million guaranteed loan to renovate and expand the Mt. San Rafael Hospital. The association will construct a 14-bed medical and surgical unit, a new emergency department with 10 treatment spaces, and a central utilities plant. It also will purchase medical equipment and expand the imaging department. “Hospitals play a pivotal role in the economic and social vitality of our rural communities,” said USDA Rural Development Colorado State Director Sallie Clark. “The funding awarded today, ensures that residents and visitors to Las Animas County and the City of Trinidad will have continued quality health care, vital to rural Colorado,” said Clark.
USDA is making the investments and has additional funding available through the Community Facilities Direct Loan Program. More than 100 types of projects are eligible for funding under USDA’s Community Facilities program. Eligible applicants include municipalities, public bodies, nonprofit organizations and federally recognized Native American tribes. Projects must be in rural areas with a population of 20,000 or less.
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 health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information in Colorado, visit www.rd.usda.gov/co.